While Four Roses won’t release their Limited Edition Single Barrel 2014 until mid-June, BourbonBlog.com is first to review this 11-year-old single barrel Bourbon. We actually tasted it with Four Roses Brand Ambassador Al Young at the recently Whisky Live NYC (see video above). We revisit the flavors in the review below.
The 2014 release is a standout which balances chocolate and creamy notes while showcasing refined age and barrel characteristics. As only around 5,000 bottles will be released, this Bourbon is a lovely example of the of OESF recipe from Four Roses (click here to learn more about the 10 unique recipes of Four Roses Bourbon).
Some distilleries release limited edition Bourbons boasting higher price tags than they are worth, however this release is a a bargain at $90 in most liquor stores.
Four Roses Limited Edition Single Barrel Bourbon 2014 Review
Proof
Uncut and non-chill filtered, barrel sample at 120 proof / 60% ABV, actual release is expected to be close to this range.
Nose
Buttery vanilla
Taste
Candied and luscious yet not sweet, smooth entry. Serious Bourbon ball flavor with notes both chocolate and creamy fondant center.
Burnt caramel and orange hints make also make it taste like an orange chocolate truffle.
Overall, a bold dessert-like nature with the main elements being fruit, creamy vanilla, and some chocolate.
Finish
Medium linger with a touch of fresh mint and cherries.
More about this release
“This year’s Limited Edition Single Barrel is a tribute to the loyal following we are so fortunate to have,” Master Distiller Jim Rutledge tells BourbonBlog.com. “This bourbon went into the barrel and was put away at a time when Four Roses had just returned to the states and it’s remarkable to see how far we’ve come as a company since then.”
The Limited Edition Single Barrel bottle pays tribute to Four Roses’ loyal fans by including a toast submitted during the Year of the Toast campaign that celebrated Four Roses 125th Anniversary. The campaign encouraged consumers to submit their favorite toasts via email and social media, with one toast selected to appear on this year’s Limited Edition Single Barrel bottle.
After reviewing hundreds of submissions, Four Roses executives chose the toast from Frank Wheatley of Louisville, Kentucky: “If I could age like bourbon, I wouldn’t mind getting old.”