I was captivated when I saw the bottle with its elegant floral adornments. There’s something enchanting about a distinctive bottle shape, especially when you can envision repurposing it once the contents are gone. The Four Roses Single Barrel bourbon whiskey takes bottle aesthetics to a new level.
Its unique, eye-catching design features a distinct shape and exquisite raised roses embedded in the glass.
The origin of the Four Roses brand has a touch of mystery surrounding it. Some sources suggest that Rufus Mathewson Rose was the brand’s founder and that it was likely named as a tribute to the Rose Family.
However, the version I find more enchanting is the romantic tale of Paul L Jones Jr falling head over heels for a charming Southern belle. Instead of proposing in person, he opted for a heartfelt letter.
Her response was equally poetic – she promised to wear a red rose to the local ball to signal her favourable response. To his delight, she wore not one but four red roses.
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Sadly, the fact that Paul L Jones Jr never tied the knot hints at an untold twist in this love story. But let’s shift our focus to the liquid gold inside the bottle.
Four Roses employs a unique approach by using two different mash bills and five distinct yeast strains to craft ten distinctive bourbon recipes. The Four Roses Single Barrel bourbon whiskey boasts a mash bill consisting of 60% corn, 35% malted rye, and 5% malted barley, complemented by yeast blends that impart fruity, vanilla, and caramel notes.
Today, the Four Roses brand is owned by the Kirin Brewery Company. In addition to the Single Barrel, their portfolio features the classic Four Roses Bourbon and the Four Roses Small Batch bourbon.
Four Roses Single Barrel Bourbon Whiskey Review
COUNTRY: USA
ABV: 50%
COLOUR: Dark reddish copper
NOSE: Fruity sweetness with some cinnamon, toffee, maple syrup, vanilla spice, hints of dark chocolate.Prepare to be greeted by a symphony of fruity sweetness intertwined with hints of cinnamon, toffee, maple syrup, vanilla spice, and subtle undertones of dark chocolate.
PALATE: Buckle up for a bold and spicy journey. While the fruity sweetness from the nose takes a step back, you’ll be hit with a robust burst of rye spices – think nutmeg, allspice, and cloves – with intriguing hints of dried fruit. Amidst it all, notes of bitter chocolate dance around toasted oak.
There’s no need to dilute this bourbon, as there’s no harsh alcohol burn, even at its high ABV. However, a drop of water works magic, coaxing forth more sweetness. The spices mellow, and the fruity sweetness takes centre stage, transforming the dark chocolate into luscious, chocolate-covered cherries.
FINISH: The finish is spicy with lingering oaky nuances.
RATING: EXCELLENT
This Single Barrel bourbon whiskey is delicious. Creamy and indulgent, it boasts a substantial body that leaves a lasting impression. There may be more budget-friendly options, retailing at around R700 at Whisky Brother.
Furthermore, its availability might be limited in South Africa. However, the experience it offers is well worth the investment. If you chance upon it, seize the opportunity to savour this gem.
Pairing this bold and spicy Four Roses Single Barrel bourbon whiskey with a perfectly aged steak is a culinary match made in heaven. Have you had the pleasure of enjoying this exquisite bourbon? Share your thoughts; we’d love your take on the Four Roses Single Barrel.
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