When it comes to bourbon, the difference between OBSQ and OBSF lies in the specific characteristics and flavors that each brings to the table. OBSQ stands for “Old Bourbon Special Rye Recipe” while OBSF stands for “Old Bourbon Special Fine Recipe.” Both are unique recipes used by the famous bourbon distillery, Four Roses.
Let's start with OBSQ. This recipe is known for its rye and light floral character. When you take a sip of an OBSQ bourbon, you can expect to taste the distinct flavors of rye, which adds a spicy and slightly peppery note to the spirit. This rye-forward profile is complemented by a subtle floral essence, adding a touch of delicacy to the overall flavor. It's like experiencing a dance between the boldness of rye and the elegance of flowers.
On the other hand, OBSF offers a different experience. This recipe is characterized by a delicate rye presence, accompanied by a hint of mint. When you take a sip of an OBSF bourbon, you'll notice that the rye flavors are more subdued compared to OBSQ. Instead, the mint notes take the spotlight, giving the bourbon a refreshing and cooling sensation. It's like a gentle breeze of mint on your palate, perfectly balancing the flavors.
Now, you might be wondering how these recipes are created and what makes them unique. Four Roses has ten different bourbon recipes, each made up of different combinations of two mash bills (grain recipes) and five different yeast strains. OBSQ and OBSF are just two of these ten recipes, showcasing the versatility and complexity of Four Roses bourbons.
The OBSQ recipe consists of a mash bill containing 60% corn, 35% rye, and 5% malted barley, combined with a proprietary yeast strain that contributes to the floral character. On the other hand, the OBSF recipe has a slightly different mash bill, with 60% corn, 35% rye, and 5% malted barley, but it utilizes a different yeast strain that imparts the minty notes.
These subtle variations in the mash bills and yeast strains used in the OBSQ and OBSF recipes result in distinct flavor profiles that bourbon enthusiasts can appreciate. It's like having two different paintings created using similar colors but with different brush strokes, resulting in unique works of art.
Personally, I've had the pleasure of tasting both OBSQ and OBSF bourbons, and I must say, the differences are quite remarkable. The OBSQ bourbon had a more pronounced rye spiciness, accompanied by a delicate floral aroma that added a touch of elegance to the overall flavor. On the other hand, the OBSF bourbon had a softer rye presence, with the mint notes providing a refreshing twist that made it perfect for sipping on a warm summer evening.
The difference between OBSQ and OBSF lies in the specific characteristics and flavors they bring to the table. OBSQ offers a rye-forward profile with a light floral character, while OBSF provides a more delicate rye presence accompanied by mint notes. These variations in flavor are a result of the different mash bills and yeast strains used in each recipe. So, whether you prefer the boldness of rye and flowers or the subtlety of rye and mint, Four Roses has a bourbon recipe to satisfy your palate.