Whisky Review/Tasting: Four Roses Single Barrel

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Four Roses Distillery, Kentucky, USA.
Type: Kentucky Straight Bourbon.
Distillation & Maturation: Distilled not above 90% ABV, matured in new American oak barrels, which imparts strong vanilla and caramel flavors.
Age Statement: Not explicitly mentioned, but hints suggest calculation based on barrel yield and loss.
Color & Clarity: Not described.
Bottle Design: Features roses (sometimes gold, sometimes red), a leather ribbon on top, and a unique cork design that prevents wiggling and damage, with a handwritten label indicating warehouse and aging location.

Balance of Flavors: A balance between the typical bourbon flavors of vanilla and caramel with an unexpected intensity of spices, fruits, and floral notes.
Unique Characteristics: Notably spicy for a bourbon, with oriental spices, and a full-bodied profile with sweet fruitiness reminiscent of ripe plums or figs, underlined by a wood caramel sweetness.
Comparison: While maintaining the core characteristics of a bourbon, it stands out for its spiciness and full-bodied nature.

Distillery Practices: Four Roses Distillery is unique in its use of different mash bills and yeast strains, offering a variety of bourbon styles. The single barrel product emphasizes the distillery's commitment to showcasing the distinct flavor of individual barrels.
Production Insights: The single barrel concept means each bottle comes from a specific barrel, offering a unique taste profile that cannot be exactly replicated.

Kentucky Bourbon Tradition: Adheres to the strict laws governing Kentucky straight bourbon production, emphasizing the cultural heritage and legal standards of bourbon making in Kentucky.

"A very good feeling about what you have inside the warehouses of the original flavor of one of the barrels."
"If you want a full-bodied bourbon, then this might be the one for you."
"Be careful if you have a single barrel and you really like just this flavor, then you buy another single barrel you might not get the same barrel."

Four Roses Single Barrel is a Kentucky Straight Bourbon, matured in new American oak barrels.
It offers a unique flavor profile that balances traditional bourbon tastes with unexpected spiciness and full-bodied fruitiness.
The distillery's use of different mash bills and yeast strains allows for a distinct flavor.
Each bottle's unique characteristics are highlighted by the single barrel concept.
The bottle design features a practical cork and a leather ribbon, with a handwritten label detailing the warehouse and aging location.
Recommended for those seeking a full-bodied, intense bourbon experience, though variations between barrels mean each bottle offers a unique taste.

Bourbon Enthusiasts: Those with a deep appreciation for bourbon's complexity will enjoy the unique flavor profile and the craftsmanship behind each bottle.
Experienced Whisky Drinkers: The 50% ABV and full-bodied nature make it suitable for those accustomed to strong, intense whiskies.
Collectors: The single barrel concept and the variability between bottles make this a fascinating addition for collectors seeking uniqueness.
Beginners: Might find the 50% ABV challenging, but it could be a rewarding step up for those looking to explore more intense flavors.