Bourbon

Bourbon Review: Four Roses 2020 Limited Edition Small Batch Bourbon

We review Four Roses 2020 Limited Edition Small Batch Bourbon, with this year's blend in the bottle consisting of a 12 year old bourbon from the OBSV recipe, a 12 year old OESV, a 16 year old OESK, and a 19 year old OBSK.

OVERALL RATING

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Tasting Notes

About:

This selection is distilled to barrel strength. It is crafted from four distillations ranging in age from 12 years to 19 (a 12 year-old bourbon from the OBSV recipe, a 12 year old OESV, a 16 year old OESK, and a 19 year old OBSK). It is bottled at 55.65% ABV.
Appearance:
It is light amber with light viscosity clinging to the walls of the glass.
Nose:
I caught dark brown sugar, caramel, vanilla up front. These were accompanied by a hint of oak.
Palate:
Neat, this whiskey has a smooth, buttery mouth feel with a pleasant warmth that lingers but does not overtake the bright flavors that follow. It is oaky and has a strong cinnamon note. Without water or ice, this bourbon is reminiscent of rum-soaked raisins. Add a splash of water and the whiskey mellows out, stripped of its initial medicinal front. It transforms to a spice cake right out of the oven.
Finish:
Add a splash of water and the whiskey mellows out, stripped of its initial medicinal front. It transforms to a spice cake right out of the oven.
Comments:
I have said it before, tradition trumps inexperience and the folks at Four Roses have released a solid entry into the Kentucky bourbon market with their special edition. Unmolested with water or ice, you will get a bold, spicy, slow sipper. Bring in the accoutrement and this becomes a completely customizable drinking experience with broad possibilities to be augmented in cocktails or enjoyed with a bit of ice.

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.

John Dover

John Dover, creator and writer of the acclaimed "Johnny Scotch" series, draws inspiration from his immersive experiences as a professional musician and his extensive travels across the US. His Jazz Noir world intertwines with his music, culminating in collaborations such as the "Johnny Scotch Vignettes" with Thomas Barber, blending high-energy fusion with spoken word.

John's latest ventures include "Johnny Scotch #4" illustrated by Dan Schaefer, and the novella "A Song for Charlie." Alongside his music career, he continues to expand the "Johnny Scotch" universe through short stories and comic books.

Beyond "Johnny Scotch," John is a recognized horror writer, contributing to anthologies such as "Tales from the Braided Pony," "Monsters 'N' Things," "100 Word Horrors," and the forthcoming "Tenebrous Tales." He's also a regular entertainment writer for Mythmachine.com.

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