In a thrilling announcement, Four Roses, the distinguished Kentucky bourbon producer, has revealed the upcoming release of its 135th Anniversary Limited Edition Small Batch Bourbon. This extraordinary blend marks a historic moment for Four Roses as it incorporates a 25-year-old component, making it the oldest bourbon ever used in the distillery's remarkable 135-year history. This highly anticipated release, bottled at a robust 108 proof, is set to launch on September 15th, adding to the legacy of Four Roses' annual series of limited-edition, barrel-proof bourbons.
Master Distiller Brent Elliott, the guiding force behind this exceptional blend, expressed his excitement about this milestone release, saying, "This release celebrates 135 years of meticulously crafted, high-quality bourbon, and I’m excited to hear what our devoted consumers have to say about it." Elliott's dedication to crafting an elegant bourbon that pays homage to the brand's heritage is evident in the meticulous selection of bourbon batches.
The blend is a harmonious fusion of various age statements, with 12, 14, and 16-year-old batches contributing their individual characteristics to create a balanced and nuanced profile. To elevate the complexity and depth of the blend, Elliott introduced the 25-year-old OBSV bourbon, which seamlessly melds with the other batches, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Four Roses is renowned for its meticulous approach to bourbon-making, utilizing ten distinct recipes, each crafted from different combinations of the distillery's two mashbills and five yeast strains. This commitment to variety and craftsmanship is a hallmark of the brand's excellence.
The composition of this year's Limited Edition Small Batch includes the following Four Roses bourbon stocks:
35% 12-year-old OESV
40% 14-year-old OESK
20% 16-year-old OESV
5% 25-year-old OBSV
These recipes, identified by four-letter names, reflect the unique character of each batch. The use of various mashbills and yeast strains contributes to the diverse flavor palette that Four Roses is celebrated for.
The inclusion of a 25-year-old bourbon in the blend is a remarkable feat. While extended aging is not uncommon in the world of Scotch whisky, it's a rarity in the realm of bourbon. Four Roses' judicious use of this aged whiskey, comprising just 5% of the blend, ensures that the final product retains a balanced and nuanced character, avoiding excessive oak influence.
Crafted from a selection of 186 barrels, this limited-edition release will yield approximately 15,060 hand-numbered bottles. It will be available at a suggested retail price of $199.99 at select retailers. For those eager to secure a bottle, Four Roses will also offer a limited quantity through a public lottery draw at the Four Roses Distillery Visitor Center. Entries for the lottery draw can be submitted online from Tuesday through August 28th.
This 135th Anniversary Limited Edition Small Batch Bourbon is a testament to Four Roses' unwavering dedication to craftsmanship and innovation, offering bourbon enthusiasts a once-in-a-lifetime tasting experience that captures the essence of a historic milestone.
About Four Roses
Four Roses, an esteemed name in the world of American bourbon, has a rich and storied history that dates back over a century. Founded in 1888 in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, the distillery quickly gained recognition for its commitment to crafting exceptional bourbon. What sets Four Roses apart is its meticulous approach, which includes ten distinct recipes, each created from a unique combination of the distillery's two mashbills and five yeast strains. This diversity of recipes is at the core of Four Roses' identity and contributes to the complexity of its bourbons.
One of the hallmarks of Four Roses bourbon is its dedication to quality and tradition. The distillery adheres to the time-honored processes that define American whiskey production. From fermentation to distillation and maturation, each step is carefully overseen by a team of experts who ensure that every bottle of Four Roses bourbon meets the highest standards.
Four Roses' annual Limited Edition Small Batch releases have become highly anticipated events in the world of bourbon. These releases showcase the craftsmanship and expertise of the distillery's Master Distiller, who carefully selects and blends different batches to create unique and memorable expressions. Each Limited Edition Small Batch is a testament to Four Roses' commitment to pushing the boundaries of flavor and complexity.
The introduction of a 25-year-old bourbon component in the 135th Anniversary Limited Edition Small Batch Bourbon is a testament to Four Roses' dedication to innovation. While bourbon is not typically aged for such extended periods, Four Roses has used this well-aged whiskey judiciously, ensuring that it enhances the blend without overpowering it. This blend, along with its diverse recipes, exemplifies Four Roses' ability to balance tradition and innovation.
Four Roses' Lawrenceburg distillery has also become a destination for whiskey enthusiasts. The distillery's visitor center offers guided tours that provide an in-depth look into the whiskey-making process. Visitors can witness the art of bourbon production, from the mashing of grains to the aging in charred oak barrels. It's an opportunity to immerse oneself in the rich history and craftsmanship that define Four Roses.
As a brand with over a century of heritage, Four Roses continues to be a respected and celebrated name in the bourbon world. Its commitment to quality, tradition, and innovation ensures that each bottle of Four Roses bourbon delivers a unique and memorable tasting experience, making it a favorite among whiskey connoisseurs and collectors alike.
