Richnimrod Posted November 30, 2015 Share Posted November 30, 2015 I did a side-by-side (blind) between two of the 4-R SmBLE's: '13 (125th Anniversary) & '15 (current). I mentioned my intention to do this earlier (in this thread I think). Anyway, in brief here are my impressions....The two had VERY similar Noses (no surprise) having a good rye-forward spicy 4-R nose. I gave a very slight edge to '13 based upon a slight fruity note (citrus?) I didn't get in the '15's nose.On the Palate, I again found more similarities than differences, with the '15 being a bit fuller, more layers if you will. I also found '15 a tiny bit more astringent, and a bit more oaky, with a very slight acetone hint. Very much a great example of 4-R's best. Rye toast on the back end, a bit of clove, a hint of cardamom, with a long even finish, fading to slightly spicy/sweet.The '13 was the slightest bit less oaky, or maybe slightly less sour-oak, more toasted oak? ...And, a slightly sweet note on the front end that I barely detected before it became a hint of ripe fruit (plum?). Not quite as astringent, slight note of shellac, a bit of clove, tiny bits of rye toast, with a long slow finish that fades just the slightest bit quicker than '15, but still a stellar spicy/sweet finish.Overall, I really couldn't decide which I liked better, maybe a VERY slight edge to the '13 for the fruity note? In any case the two are fantastic pours! I think the two are among the best whiskeys I've had. Certainly top 15 for me. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Paddy Posted November 30, 2015 Share Posted November 30, 2015 Nice work Rich! It's a tough job, but... Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
meadeweber Posted December 14, 2015 Share Posted December 14, 2015 Had my first pour yesterday. This stuff is good! Unmistakably Four Roses in the nose and the taste but it has somewhat more complexity and depth than other FR I've had. I also picked up some oak/wood which I haven't noticed in other FR (mainly I drink PS SB). My favorite part however is the long, tasty finish. I hope there isn't a change in FR with Jim Rutherford gone. I really like their stuff. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Masset1982 Posted July 5, 2016 Share Posted July 5, 2016 Welcome home LE SmB 2015, i've got a special place for you on my bar for you next to your younger brother from 2014. I paid just a little bit over the retail price, can't wait to try it. I've heard it's better than the 2014 which was ok, not mind blowing ! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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