Penelope Bourbon has launched into the UK through London–based importer Lightbox Brands, following its fast growth in the US.
According to the producer, the brand is among the fastest growing premium whiskey brands in the US, with sales up 80% in 2025. Now, in the UK, it will be focusing its efforts on attracting specialist spirits stockists, alongside premium bars and restaurants in the on–trade.
Three expressions are set to be available across both the off– and on–trade. At the lowest price point, Penelope Four Grain Straight Bourbon will retail for £40.50. Meanwhile, Penelope Wheated Bourbon is set to have a RRP of £50.50 and Penelope Architect Bourbon is marked at £61.
The maker said that the core Penelope range aims to span prices ranging from accessible to higher–tiered. It continued that all the liquids use the brand’s distinctive finishing techniques, which includes a four–grain mash bill and a series of secondary cask and stave finishing techniques.
Alongside the core range, a series of limited–edition Penelope expressions are set to be released. These include Penelope Valencia, which is finished in Vino de Naranja casks from Seville, creating a citrus complexity, and Penelope Rosé Cask Finish, finished in French Grenache rosé casks from the Southern Rhône to create fruit and floral notes.
At the same time, Penelope Rio is a double cask finish in American honey barrels and Brazilian Amburana oak, creating rich sweetness and spice. Meanwhile, Peach Old Fashioned combines straight bourbon and rye with peach bitters and 100% pure maple syrup.
Mike Paladini and Daniel Polise, founders of Penelope Bourbon, said: “After so many people reached out to ask when Penelope would be landing in the UK, we’re so excited to finally be able to make it happen.
“It’s an exciting time to be launching here, with bourbon being at the heart of the rise of so many classic and contemporary cocktails, such as the Old Fashioned and Whiskey Sour.
“Consumers are embracing premium and experimental spirits, showing a willingness to explore beyond traditional Scotch. Penelope’s commitment to experimentation will be well-received by younger drinkers who are seeking innovative cask finishes and limited-edition releases.”
