Four Roses Original Single Barrel 1990's (no box)

Experience a rare piece of bourbon history with the Four Roses Single Barrel Reserve 1991. This meticulously crafted expression, bottled at an approachable 86 proof, delivers an unparalleled complexity of sweet vanilla, dried fruits, and elegant oak. A true testament to Four Roses' enduring heritage, this bottle offers a glimpse into the distillery's exceptional past and master craftsmanship.

Tasting Notes

Nose: A sophisticated and complex bouquet explodes from the glass. Initial sweet notes of creme brûlée, vanilla bean, and honey are gracefully intertwined with dried apricot, fig, and a whisper of orange peel. Deeper inspection reveals a rich earthiness, perhaps aged leather or well-worn oak, accented by delicate floral undertones of rose petals and a hint of warm baking spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.

Palate: The entry is remarkably soft and inviting despite its age, coating the palate with a velvety texture. Sweetness leads the charge, mirroring the nose with copious vanilla, caramel chews, and a delightful brown sugar note. The fruit character expands to include stewed dark cherries and plum, beautifully balanced by a refined oak presence – not aggressive, but lending structure and a subtle nuttiness. A delicate peppery spice, perhaps white pepper or allspice, emerges mid-palate, providing a lively counterpoint to the sweetness and fruit. The 86 proof is impeccably integrated, allowing the full spectrum of flavors to shine without alcohol harshness.

Finish: Long, lingering, and immensely satisfying. The sweetness gracefully fades, leaving behind a warm, drying sensation that highlights the mature oak and a persistent, pleasant spice. Notes of dark chocolate, roasted nuts, and a faint herbaceous quality (mint or tobacco leaf) emerge, culminating in a refined and elegant conclusion. The balance achieved between sweetness, fruit, spice, and oak is truly remarkable.

About the Distillery

Four Roses Distillery, established in 1888, boasts a unique history of producing bourbon using two distinct mashbills and five proprietary yeast strains, resulting in ten different bourbon recipes. Though its single barrel expressions were once primarily for export, Four Roses has re-established itself as a highly esteemed American bourbon producer, renowned for its commitment to quality and nuanced flavor profiles.