Four Roses Single Barrel
is a distinguished bourbon whiskey produced by the Four Roses Distillery, located in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky. It is renowned for its complexity and depth of flavor, making it a favorite among bourbon enthusiasts. This bourbon is crafted using a unique combination of two mash bills and five distinct yeast strains, resulting in ten different recipes that contribute to its rich character. The standard offering is bottled at 100 proof (50% ABV) and features the OBSV recipe, which consists of 60% corn, 35% rye, and 5% malted barley.
Production Process
The production of Four Roses Single Barrel begins with the careful selection of ingredients. The distillery employs two primary mash bills: Mash Bill “B” (60% corn, 35% rye, and 5% malted barley) and Mash Bill “E” (75% corn, 20% rye, and 5% malted barley). The yeast strains used during fermentation are identified by letters F, K, O, Q, and V. Each combination results in a distinct flavor profile.
Once distilled, the bourbon is aged in charred American oak barrels. The aging process takes place in single-story warehouses designed to minimize temperature fluctuations that can affect the maturation process. Barrels are stored at various tiers within these warehouses; typically, lower-tier barrels experience less heat exposure compared to those stored higher up.
Tasting Notes
Nose
Upon nosing Four Roses Single Barrel, one can expect an inviting aroma characterized by light fruit notes such as cherry and pear combined with hints of vanilla custard and caramel. Subtle spices like cinnamon and allspice add complexity to the bouquet.
Palate
The palate reveals a harmonious blend of flavors. Initial tastes include roasted corn and dried fruits complemented by baking spices such as ginger and pepper. There are also sweet undertones from chocolate chips and buttery caramel that enhance the overall experience.
Finish
The finish is medium to long-lasting with warm notes of dark fruit leather mingling with cinnamon and pepper spice. A slight woodiness from the oak barrels lingers on the palate without overwhelming it.
Conclusion
Overall, Four Roses Single Barrel stands out for its well-balanced profile that appeals to both novice bourbon drinkers and seasoned connoisseurs alike. Its approachable nature combined with rich flavors makes it an excellent choice for sipping neat or using in cocktails. With an average price point around $45-$55 per bottle, it offers great value for high-quality bourbon whiskey.
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