Bourbon

Whiskey Review: Four Roses 2017 Limited Edition Small Batch

We review Four Roses 2017 Limited Edition Small Batch, the latest in a series of popular limited edition bourbons from a favorite Kentucky distillery.

OVERALL RATING

9
Like Conversation

Tasting Notes

About:

ABV of 53.95% alcohol (107.3 proof), barrel aged over a range of 12-15 years, suggested retail of $130.
Appearance:
Deep copper color; when swirled, yields thin, widely spaced legs descending slowly in multiple runs.
Nose:
Like many Four Roses barrel strength releases, this launches with a Juicy Fruit chewing gum bomb followed by more delicate notes of stone fruit, spearmint, oak and a touch of menthol.
Palate:
Intensely fruity on entry, the mouth waters instantly as if sucking on hard candy. Mouthfeel is light and silken; it begs to be rolled around the mouth. Finish is bereft of bitterness or tannin. The smidge of burn is far less prominent than the 2016 release. Add a few drops of water and the fun begins: milk chocolate followed by butterscotch, oak, vanilla, roasted pineapple and banana. It’s a liquid fruit salad tossed in a charred oak bowl.
Finish:
Comments:
This whiskey is such a pleasure to drink, and inviting to the point of being youthful despite its age. Armed only with a 100ml press sample, I couldn’t spare a drop to test its cocktail performance—not that it needed to prove its mettle among the amendments—or even bother with good ice. No loss, though, as this was delicious au naturale. Those waiting in line won’t be disappointed if they get one.

Editor’s Note: This whiskey was either bought as a sample by The Whiskey Wash or provided to us as a review sample by the party behind it. Per our editorial policies, this in no way influenced the outcome of this review.

Steve Coomes

Steve Coomes is an award-winning journalist and author with a specialization in whiskey and food. Throughout his extensive 30-year career, he has contributed his expertise to various national trade and consumer publications, including notable names such as USA Today, Southern Living, Delta Sky Magazine, Nation's Restaurant News, Pizza Today, Restaurant Business, Bourbon +, and American Whiskey magazine. His literary accomplishments include the 2013 book "Country Ham: A Southern Tradition of Hogs, Salt & Smoke" and the 2020 publication "The Rebirth of Bourbon: Building a Tourism Economy in Small-Town USA." Beyond his writing pursuits, Steve also shares his passion by leading diverse food and spirits pairing experiences, ranging from large-scale events to intimate gatherings and virtual sessions.

All Posts

Latest On The Whiskey Wash