Richard

Four Roses Limited Edition Single Barrel Bourbon Whiskey, 2010 Release
Bottle 395 of 2359, Barrel No. 24-2 B
54% ABV/108 Proof
$100
Available in select US markets

What the Distillery Says:
It only seems right to witness the 100th anniversary of our unique distillery building with a perfectly aged, one-of-a-kind limited edition single barrel selected from on of our 10 Bourbon recipes. After 17 years, this uncut, non-chill filtered work of art has matured into a Bourbon of uncommon character and taste. The aromas of brisk cloves and candied fruits preview the bold, jammy flavors of peach and cherry that meld seamlessly with creamy, spiced vanilla and antique oak. And the very long, velvety finish is, of course, the perfect tribute to a remarkable building – in itself so exquisitely aged.

What Richard Says:
Nose: Rich and creamy on the nose. Creme brûlée and cloves.
Palate: The richness continues on the palate. It’s very spicy and fruity with a lot of vanilla and oak but I get very little of the sweetness from the nose.
Finish: Even at a high octane proof this is quite smooth. There’s an almost medicinal note that I don’t usually find in Four Roses bourbons. Spicy with hints of cherry.
Comments: First of all, for the whiskey geeks out there this bottling is a 17 year old from the OBSV recipe. I’m not quite sure if I like this more or less than the 2010 Small Batch Limited Edition. You really can’t go wrong with either. If you find the opportunity to get a glass of this you really should try it.
Rating: Must Try

Four Roses Limited Edition Small Batch 2010 Release Barrel Strength Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
55.1% ABV/110.2 Proof
$75
Available in select US markets

What the Distillery Says:
Four Roses is the only distillery that gently ages 10 distinct Bourbon recipes. Form time to time, our Master Distiller selects a few exceptional barrels and marries them by hand to create an exquisite Limited Edition Small Batch Bourbon like this one. Three recipes aged between 10 and 15 years have been artfully mingled at barrel strength, creating a rich, complex spirit defined by soft oak, caramel and honeysuckle aromas. Subtle flavors of cherries and apricot are well balanced with whispers of light spice, honey and raspberries. And the cream smooth finish is satisfyingly long and mellow, making this a Bourbon you’ll not just savor, but long remember.

What Richard Says:
Nose: Interestingly, the nose isn’t that alcoholic given the barrel proof and surprisingly delicate. Orchard fruit and some spice hide in the background.
Palate: Sweet, spicy, and oaky on palate. It also reminds me of a honey drizzled fruit cup like the one your mom put in your lunch as a kid.
Finish: The finish is very long with plenty of oak. It leaves cinnamon in the mouth long after the drink is gone.
Comments: Oddly enough the first thing that struck me about this whiskey was the name. I believe, to date 14 words is the longest official name of anything we’ve reviewed. For you whiskey geeks out there, the actual recipes used in the limited edition are a 15 year old OBSV, an 11 year old OBSK and a 10 year old OESK. They stopped calling this annual release “Mariage” so that they could use more recipes instead of just two. If this year’s release is any indication I’ve not problem with the change.
Rating: Must Try