Four Roses Super Premium

Originally exclusive to the Japanese market, this bottling has the most attractive bottle in the brand's lineup. Unfortunately, it's much like the distillery's other bourbons: uninspired, standard, and a tad harsh. Bottled at 43% ABV. Vanilla, caramel, and banana are present on the nose, typical for bourbon. A metallic note, common in some older bourbons for me, is also detected. The palate features prunes, clove, and a mild initial sweetness of toffee. A standard dram. The finish is oaky and spicy with clove, and not long-lasting. Overall, I rate this dram a 70 out of 100, a typical score for this distillery.

I initially wondered why this received such negative feedback...until I sampled a small amount. The aroma is quite severe, and the first taste is sweet with a hint of spice. The conclusion is possibly the least satisfying I've encountered; it simply vanishes and nearly resembles sparkling water.

Very good - a step above the usual. Probably not worth the price I paid, but as a fan, I had to try it.

Awesome spirit, but it didn't quite meet my expectations. It reminds me more of Japanese whisky.

Thin, sweet, metallic bourbon with no finish. Almost feels like a low-end scotch.

Acquired a bottle made in Japan. I will revise this review after I have sampled it.