Angel's Envy Small Batch Rye Whiskey Finished in French Oak

This French-oak finished rye tames bold rye spice with warm oak depth and subtle sweetness. It bridges the vigorous, peppery rye character with a smoother, layered finishing influence—great for sipping or elevating rye cocktails.

Origins & Craftsmanship

Angel’s Envy has released a French oak–finished rye in a small batch format, bottled at 92 proof (46 % ABV). The base whiskey is a Kentucky straight rye, matured in conventional new American oak, then finished in select French oak barrels for additional complexity.

The finishing barrels may have held another spirit before, or may be specially seasoned, to add nuance (though less aggressively than the “Cellar Collection” French oak / tequila barrel editions). The final blending is designed to balance the rye’s intensity with oak warmth, and the bottling is done without chill filtration to preserve texture and character.

Tasting Profile

Nose: Spearmint, vanilla custard, dried orange peel, and soft baking spice (clove, cinnamon). The French oak influence introduces a gentle toasty character and hints of cedar and nutmeg.

Palate: The rye backbone brings forward cracked black pepper, allspice, and ginger. Behind that, layers of caramel, oak tannin, and sweet vanilla cushion the spice. A delicate herbal note (perhaps sage or mint) lingers mid-palate, merging with the oak.

Finish: Medium length, with the heat softening into warm oak spice, lingering peppercorn, and a gentle sweet oak echo. The finish retains the rye kick but with gentler edges thanks to the French oak influence.

Quick Overview