Four Roses Limited Edition Small Batch Review

[cowdery]

My review of the 2010 Four Roses Small Batch Limited Edition is here. It should be available in Kentucky during the Bourbon Festival, while they last of course.

[TomFischer]

a photo of the bottle and more details of the Four Roses Limited Edition Small Batch bourbon posted on this link.

Who of you all will we be seeing at Kentucky Bourbon Festival at the gazebo when this is released?

[2highcal]

For something that I think is truly special the Party Source has 5 different 4 Roses SB versions of different recipes they already sold out 1 and are going to get the rest (1 version every 2 or 3 months). http://www.thepartysource.com/whiskey/whiskey_private.php

I bought the OBSK Barrel Strength OBSO Barrel Strength OESO Barrel Strength.

[jburlowski]

First impressions:

Appearance:

Lighter than I expected, given the age(s) of the constituent bourbons. Bright, new copper-penny brown

Nose:

Hmmm. Vague hints of vanilla and oak.

Palate:

Soft, nuanced, subtle. Nothing stands out here. Four Roses florals with hints of fruit.

Finish:

Long and satisfyingly dry.

This pour was puzzling at first. Definitely opens up after some time in the glass. This is not a flavor-forward bourbon. It is intricate and multi-flavored. Over time, each sip reveals new treasures: strawberries (or is it raspberries?) and cherries. Toffee (or caramel apples?) White pepper (or cinnamon?)

Call it soft. Or ethereal. Or delicate. Or understated. Layers and hints of flavor and essence that are revealed with each subsequent sip. This is a very approachable pour with a barrel-proof of 50.1% ABV.

Maybe this is not subtle but rather so well balanced that none of the elements overpowers. Instead they all work well together. A symphony of sensations.

As good as the 2009 Mariage? Not in my book – but that is a mighty high standard. Is this is a wonderfully crafted and balanced whiskey? Absolutely. Jim Rutledge and company have done it again. Something to be explored and savored. A delight for the senses. I look forward to sipping this one by the fire.

[BourbonJoe]

Only had it once, at the Four Roses Luncheon. I was not very impressed, based on previous releases of Mariage and the other Four Roses bottlings available. I think I'll save some money on this one this time around.

Joe :usflag:

[OscarV]

As good as the 2009 Mariage? Not in my book – but that is a mighty high standard.

[Josh]

I agree with Oscar and Mr. B. It's complex but not particularly subtle.

I've already had a few drinks and I think it's really great. I got a lot of spice out of it, very much in the 4R house style, but a little bit more like nacho chips, kinda reminds me of the Willet I had, but with a more 4R spin. I think it's very much worth the money. Not on the same level as the 09 Mariage, imo, but what is?

[ODaniel]

I had this last night and I really enjoyed it. Didn't blow me away, but I thought it was great. I didn't examine it too much, just a quicky.

Now I am kicking myself for never picking up the Mariage. Maybe (probably not) I can find one somewhere..

[nivto]

Now I am kicking myself for never picking up the Mariage. Maybe (probably not) I can find one somewhere..

If you don't mind paying shipping, I think Binny's has both years available for delivery for about $80.

[ODaniel]

Cool. Thanks for the tip. I'll see if I can't locate one around Lexington or Louisville, then may resort to that.

[jburlowski]

The Party Source (in Bellevue, KY) also has the 2009 Mariage on the shelves.

[OscarV]

The Party Source (in Bellevue, KY) also has the 2009 Mariage on the shelves.

[QUOTE][/QUOTE]

Not if I was in the area.

[jburlowski]

Not if I was in the area.

I've been doing my best, Oscar. :cool: