Four Roses Original Kentucky Straight Bourbon is a smooth and versatile whiskey, celebrated for its approachable character and unique blending process. Combining richness with balance, it’s an excellent choice for sipping neat, on the rocks, or as the foundation for classic cocktails like an Old Fashioned or Manhattan.

Four Roses Distillery

Founded in 1888, Four Roses has a storied history as one of Kentucky’s most iconic bourbon producers. Known for its innovative approach to crafting bourbon, the distillery employs two distinct mash bills and five proprietary yeast strains, allowing for the creation of ten unique recipes. This meticulous process ensures complexity and consistency across their range. Based in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, Four Roses continues to be a benchmark in the bourbon industry, combining tradition with craftsmanship under the stewardship of master distiller Brent Elliott.

Distillation and Ageing

Four Roses Original is crafted using a blend of recipes selected for their light and gentle flavour profiles. The bourbon is distilled in column stills, which produce a cleaner, more refined spirit. It is then aged in charred American oak barrels, where it develops its signature caramel and vanilla notes. While this bourbon doesn’t carry an age statement, its time in the barrel ensures a balance of youthful vibrancy and mature complexity.

Tasting Notes

This bourbon pours a golden amber in the glass. On the nose, it reveals inviting aromas of honey, red apples, and caramel, with undertones of floral spice and a subtle hint of oak. The palate is light to medium-bodied, offering flavours of ripe orchard fruits, vanilla, and soft brown sugar, framed by a touch of baking spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. The finish is clean and smooth, with lingering notes of sweet oak and a gentle warmth.

Serving Suggestions

Four Roses Original is a versatile bourbon that shines in a variety of settings. Its approachable profile makes it an excellent choice for newcomers to bourbon, while its nuanced flavours appeal to seasoned enthusiasts. Enjoy it straight, with a splash of water to open up its aromas, or in cocktails where its smooth and balanced character enhances the mix without overpowering other ingredients. Whatever the occasion, Four Roses Original is a timeless example of Kentucky bourbon done right.