Four Roses is a renowned distillery known for producing exceptional bourbon. They offer several different levels of bourbon, each with its own unique characteristics. Let's dive into the details of each level:
1. Four Roses Yellow Label: This is the entry-level bourbon from Four Roses, but don't let that fool you. It is a well-crafted and flavorful bourbon that serves as a great introduction to the Four Roses brand. It is a blend of all ten of the distillery's proprietary yeast strains, resulting in a balanced and approachable flavor profile. The Yellow Label offers notes of caramel, vanilla, and a hint of spice, making it a versatile choice for sipping neat or mixing into cocktails.
2. Four Roses Small Batch: The Small Batch bourbon is a step up from the Yellow Label and is crafted from a selection of the distillery's ten recipes. It is made from four specific yeast strains: OBSK, OESK, OBSO, and OESO. This combination creates a rich and complex flavor profile with a balance of sweet and spicy notes. The Small Batch is aged for a minimum of seven years and has a higher proof of 90, adding depth and intensity to the bourbon.
3. Four Roses Single Barrel: As the name suggests, the Single Barrel bourbon is made from a single barrel, rather than a blend of barrels. This allows for more variation in flavor and character, as each barrel develops its own unique characteristics during the aging process. The Single Barrel is made from one of the ten recipes and is typically bottled at a higher proof, around 100. This bourbon offers a rich and full-bodied experience, with flavors of caramel, oak, and a touch of fruitiness. It is a favorite among bourbon enthusiasts who appreciate the complexity and depth of a single barrel expression.
4. Four Roses Small Batch Select: Small Batch Select is a relatively new addition to the Four Roses lineup, introduced in 2019. It is crafted from a selection of six of the distillery's recipes, including the V, K, and F recipes from both the B and E mash bills. This combination of recipes results in a robust and flavorful bourbon with layers of complexity. Small Batch Select is aged for a minimum of six years and bottled at a higher proof of 104. It offers notes of caramel, ripe fruits, and a spicy kick, making it a bold and sophisticated choice.
Each level of Four Roses bourbon offers its own unique experience, from the approachable and versatile Yellow Label to the complex and nuanced Small Batch Select. Whether you're a bourbon enthusiast or just starting your journey into the world of whiskey, Four Roses has a bourbon to suit your taste preferences and elevate your drinking experience.