Kentucky is known for its bourbon, but "Four Roses Single Barrel" has something special that keeps bourbon enthusiasts coming back.
In this review, I’ll dive into why Four Roses Single Barrel stands out, whether it truly deserves to be called Kentucky bourbon’s hidden gem, and what makes it a favorite among whiskey aficionados. Having sampled countless bourbons over the years, I know quality when I taste it, and Four Roses consistently offers something unique with each sip.
First, let's talk about what sets this bourbon apart. Four Roses has a legacy of crafting distinctively smooth, high-quality bourbons. But the Single Barrel variety is where it really shines, boasting a bold flavor profile of rich caramel, vanilla, and oak, balanced with fruity hints and a subtle spiciness. This complexity results from Four Roses’ unique approach: they use ten different recipes to create diverse flavors across their range, with the Single Barrel typically showcasing the OBSV recipe, famous for its high rye content and robust character.
Whether you’re a seasoned bourbon drinker or a curious newcomer, understanding the depth of bourbon flavor in this bottle is a journey in itself. From its high-proof potency to its carefully selected mash bill, Four Roses Single Barrel is more than just another whiskey; it’s a testament to what Kentucky bourbon can be. Join me as we explore if this bottle lives up to its reputation as a true bourbon treasure.
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A Brief History of Four Roses Distillery
Founded in the late 19th century, Four Roses Distillery is based in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky.
The brand has had an interesting journey, with a period where its bourbon was unavailable in the U.S. market, focusing solely on international sales. After reentering the American market in the early 2000s, Four Roses quickly regained its reputation for producing high-quality bourbon.
Under the guidance of Master Distiller Brent Elliott, the distillery has continued to innovate while maintaining time-honored whiskey-making traditions, producing a range of expressions that consistently receive high praise.
Overview of Four Roses Single Barrel Bourbon
Four Roses Single Barrel is one of the flagship offerings from the distillery.
Each bottle is drawn from a single barrel, meaning no two bottles are exactly the same, offering a unique tasting experience with every purchase.
This expression is renowned for its robust and spicy profile, driven by its high rye content and meticulous aging process. The Single Barrel stands out among bourbon lovers for its depth of flavor, high proof, and accessibility in terms of both price and availability.
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Bottle & Recipe Details
Mashbill Composition
Four Roses Single Barrel uses the OBSV recipe, which is a high-rye mashbill consisting of:
- 60% corn
- 35% rye
- 5% malted barley
This mashbill is known for producing a spicy, full-bodied bourbon with a balance of sweetness and complexity from the high rye content.
Proof
Four Roses Single Barrel is bottled at 100 proof (50% ABV), giving it a bold and intense flavor while maintaining smoothness and drinkability.
Age Statement
While the distillery doesn’t provide an exact age statement for the Single Barrel, most barrels are aged between 7 to 9 years, ensuring the bourbon develops a mature, well-rounded profile.
Price Range and Availability
Priced between $45 to $60, Four Roses Single Barrel offers exceptional value for a premium, craft bourbon. It’s widely available in most U.S. states and many international markets, making it a highly accessible choice for those seeking quality at a reasonable price.
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Tasting Notes
Appearance
In the glass, Four Roses Single Barrel presents a warm, inviting amber hue, with copper highlights reflecting its time spent aging in charred oak barrels.
Nose
The nose is rich and complex, with dominant aromas of ripe red fruit, vanilla, honey, and a hint of spice. As it opens up, you might detect subtle notes of floral essence and leather, giving it a layered aromatic profile.
Palate
On the palate, this bourbon delivers an initial sweetness of caramel and vanilla, quickly followed by the spiciness of rye, with flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove. The high proof brings a warmth that’s balanced by a fruity richness, including notes of cherry and plum.
Finish
The finish is long, spicy, and satisfying, with lingering notes of oak, pepper, and a hint of dark chocolate. It leaves a slight warmth on the tongue that invites another sip.
Production Process
Single Barrel Selection
One of the defining features of Four Roses Single Barrel is its single-barrel selection process. Each barrel is chosen based on its individual flavor characteristics, ensuring that no two barrels taste exactly the same. This makes each bottle a unique experience, reflecting the intricate nuances of the barrel it comes from.
OBSV Recipe Explanation
Four Roses uses 10 different recipes across its bourbon range, with the Single Barrel using the OBSV recipe. The “O” indicates it was distilled at the Four Roses Distillery, “B” refers to the high-rye mashbill (35% rye), “S” denotes straight whiskey, and “V” represents the yeast strain that imparts delicate fruitiness and light spice to the whiskey.
Aging Process and Warehouse Information
The bourbon is aged in single-story rickhouses, which allows for more consistent aging compared to multi-story warehouses. This method reduces temperature variations, resulting in a smoother and more balanced product.
Comparison
Differences Between Four Roses Single Barrel, Small Batch, and Yellow Label
- Four Roses Single Barrel offers a higher proof (100) and is drawn from a single barrel, providing a more robust and unique flavor profile.
- Four Roses Small Batch (90 proof) is a blend of four different recipes, offering a more rounded and approachable experience.
- Four Roses Yellow Label is the entry-level bourbon at 80 proof, offering a lighter and more accessible flavor profile.
Comparison to Other Single Barrel Bourbons in the Same Price Range
Compared to other single barrel bourbons like Blanton’s Single Barrel or Knob Creek Single Barrel, Four Roses stands out for its high-rye mashbill, which adds an extra layer of spiciness and complexity. Blanton’s tends to be sweeter and smoother, while Knob Creek offers a more oaky, robust flavor. Four Roses strikes a fine balance between spiciness, sweetness, and fruitiness, making it an exceptional value.
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Serving Suggestions
How to Best Enjoy Four Roses Single Barrel
- Neat: To fully appreciate the complex flavors, many bourbon enthusiasts recommend enjoying this bourbon neat.
- With Ice: A few ice cubes or a splash of water can open up the flavors, softening the spice while enhancing the sweetness and fruit notes.
- In Cocktails: The high proof and bold flavors make it a great choice for classic bourbon cocktails like the Old Fashioned or Manhattan, where its spiciness can shine.
Food Pairings
Four Roses Single Barrel pairs well with rich, hearty foods such as:
- Grilled steak or barbecue for its bold, smoky flavors
- Dark chocolate desserts to complement the fruity and spicy notes
- Aged cheeses like gouda or blue cheese, which balance the bourbon’s richness
Value for Money
Price-to-Quality Ratio
For a premium bourbon in the $45–$60 price range, Four Roses Single Barrel offers outstanding value. Its single-barrel selection, high proof, and complex flavor profile put it on par with much more expensive bourbons.
How It Stands Up Against Competitors
When compared to similarly priced single barrel offerings like Elijah Craig Single Barrel or Eagle Rare, Four Roses Single Barrel holds its own, especially for those who enjoy a high-rye bourbon. Its distinct balance of spice and sweetness makes it a top contender in the category.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- High-rye content for a bold, spicy flavor
- Unique single-barrel experience with each bottle
- 100 proof, offering intense flavor and complexity
- Excellent value for a premium bourbon
Cons
- Slightly too spicy for those who prefer a milder bourbon
- The single-barrel variability means some bottles may differ in profile
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Consumer Reviews and Ratings
Four Roses Single Barrel consistently receives high praise from consumers and critics alike:
- Whiskey Advocate: 92 points
- Distiller: 4.5/5
- Breaking Bourbon: 4.25/5
Conclusion: Taste for yourself!
Overall, Four Roses Single Barrel is a standout in the world of Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey.
Its high-rye mashbill, meticulous aging process, and unique single-barrel selection create a bourbon that’s complex, robust, and satisfying. Whether you’re a seasoned bourbon drinker or just starting to explore the category, this bottle offers something special for everyone.
Our Recommendation for those who love Good Things
For those who appreciate spicy bourbons or are looking for a bold, high-proof offering, Four Roses Single Barrel is a must-try.
It’s equally enjoyable neat, on the rocks, or in classic cocktails, and its price-to-quality ratio makes it one of the best values in the world of craft bourbon.
Four Roses Single Barrel Bourbon Review
