Four Roses Private Selection Single Barrel Barrel Strength Bourbon (OESO)

Comparing two selections: one aged 11 years, 11 months at 111.6 proof, and another aged 8 years, 11 months at 116.6 proof. I am eager to try both, having not sampled them before. Selection 1 aroma: A very deep and sweet smell, almost like pure strawberries. It's understandable why this particular type commands a high price. It feels delicate yet also rich. Selection 2 aroma: Quite similar to the first, with perhaps a bit more caramel and spice, and less fruit-forward. A second sniff reveals a note resembling juicy fruit gum. Selection 1 taste: Phenomenal. Incredibly rich, bold, and very sweet. It has a substantial mouthfeel and drinks at its stated proof. While not as viscous as some bourbons, this is excellent. Selection 2 taste: Initially sweet, followed by a significant burn from the mid-palate down. However, it's not overwhelming, clearly showcasing the rye component. The mouthfeel might be slightly thicker than the first selection, and the spice is definitely prominent. Selection 1 finish: A somewhat unusual finish, leaning slightly bitter, but of medium to long duration. Selection 2 finish: Sweet with a hint of mint, lasting a medium duration. Overall: Both are very good bourbons. This comparison highlights the most significant differences between these two compared to other types I have sampled. While I appreciate a bit of pepper, it's not my absolute favorite. The smooth sweetness of the first selection appeals to me more. Both are still great.

Nose: Bright vanilla, roses, wildflowers, cinnamon, white pepper, eucalyptus, moderate oak, and strong ethanol. Palate: Orange blossom honey, cinnamon, gingerbread, sharp vanilla, and baking spices. Finish is long and oily with sweet and spicy oak, white pepper, honeysuckle, and moderate ethanol. Remarkable selections that are often difficult to find in Kentucky can sometimes be found on shelves in NC ABC stores. I was fortunate to find both the Russell's Reserve SiB and this particular pick to be outstanding at a new location near my parents. While I've previously found certain single barrel bourbons to be overpriced, I might reconsider for these specific picks. They consistently rank as my preferred among the types I've sampled. Provided the cost is under $100, I anticipate continuing to purchase them.

Nose: Red berry compote, blueberry, cedar, slight pine/evergreen, caramel, vanilla, brown sugar. Palate: Warm strawberry, cherry, brown sugar, caramel, vanilla. Many notes from the nose carry over to the palate. There's a slight amount of rye spice as well. Finish: Red fruit, light oak, cinnamon, rye spice. Medium finish with a solid mouthfeel. Overall: Very fruit-forward from the nose to the finish, with a subtle amount of oak and spice to create a very well-balanced drinking experience. There's not much about this bottle that I can criticize, except that the mouthfeel/viscosity is just adequate. I truly enjoy this particular barrel pick and always look for OESO picks.

Nose - Sweet flower petals, caramel, honeysuckle, allspice, fresh rain, white pepper, light oak, and moderate ethanol. Palate - Old fashioned candies, rose petal, butterscotch, wildflower honey, and oolong tea. The finish is long with slightly bitter oak, essential oils, lavender, honeysuckle, white pepper, and moderate ethanol. This might be the first time I've felt Four Roses SBBS is worth the cost. It is delicate, sweet, and floral, without being too savory. Excellent bourbon, but it's challenging to pay for these blindly when most have been disappointing in the past.

Picked from Kroger, aged 8 years, 7 months. The aroma offers maple syrup and cinnamon. After pouring it into a grappa glass, consuming half, and being interrupted by life, I returned an hour later to find it had dramatically improved. The taste is spicy, peppery, and wine-like, with what seems like a Pinot noir finish. Lingering notes of honey and red berries persist on the finish. The final drops in the glass left a delightful butterscotch pudding impression. Amazing.

Dark amber color, not particularly viscous in the glass. The nose offers fresh fruit, apple with vanilla and a hint of pine. The palate starts with apple butter and cinnamon, with pine in the background. It's surprisingly buttery given the lack of legs. The finish is strongly bittersweet chocolate. This is a good whiskey, but not among my top choices for Fouf Roses.