Building on the buzz from its debut bottled cocktail, Penelope Bourbon has unveiled its second handcrafted ready-to-pour innovation: the Black Walnut Old Fashioned. Arriving just in time for summer gatherings—from backyard barbecues to laid-back evenings at home—this new release puts a modern spin on the classic Old Fashioned, crafted with Penelope’s signature dedication to quality and flavor.
Following the success of its Peach Old Fashioned, Penelope expands its footprint in the growing ready-to-pour market with this rich, nuanced cocktail. The Black Walnut Old Fashioned blends Penelope’s award-winning straight bourbon and rye whiskey with a distinctive mix of black walnut bitters and vanilla demerara sugar—a raw sugar with hints of molasses that lends a warm caramel note. Bottled at 76 proof (38% ABV), it promises a smooth, expertly balanced sip designed for effortless enjoyment.
Michael Paladini, Penelope Bourbon founder and VP of strategy for MGP Ingredients, said, “The ready-to-pour market is exciting territory for us, and we’re innovating again with Black Walnut Old Fashioned—our latest unique take on the classic cocktail.”
Aroma-wise, the Black Walnut Old Fashioned opens with warm vanilla notes, accented by subtle maple, allspice, and cocoa. On the palate, fresh brown sugar and light spices—including cinnamon and allspice—lead into a velvety toffee finish with hints of nut and lingering caramel.
Master blender Danny Polise called it “a great variation of the Old Fashioned that we love,” emphasizing how the bourbon-rye blend forms a whiskey-forward base for this sophisticated yet accessible cocktail. “We hope all will enjoy how easy it can be to experience a delicious Penelope cocktail,” he added.
Penelope’s two ready-to-pour expressions, Black Walnut Old Fashioned and Peach Old Fashioned, have already earned platinum medals in the Pre-Mixed Cocktail category at the prestigious 2025 ASCOT Awards—a testament to the brand’s craftsmanship and innovation.
Available nationwide starting August, the Black Walnut Old Fashioned comes in Penelope’s signature white matte 750ml bottle, marked by deep walnut-colored lettering, with a suggested retail price of $29.99.
For cocktail lovers looking for effortless sophistication this summer, Penelope Bourbon’s latest release offers a perfectly balanced, premium ready-to-pour option. For more information, head over to the brand’s official website.
