Four Roses Bourbon Review

When it comes to bourbon, some are good, some are great, and some are terrible—but Four Roses? It’s legendary. From the Small Batch to the Single Barrel and Small Batch Select, the Four Roses lineup absolutely stands out. Smooth, rich, and full of unique flavors, Four Roses is crafted to perfection and has earned its spot at the top.

In this review, we’re going to explain everything you need to know about this iconic bourbon–from how it’s made to what makes its flavor profile so special.

In this Four Roses Bourbon review, we’ll break down the best ways to enjoy it, compare it to other bourbons, and even explore if it's a great gift option. Plus, we’ll share where to grab a bottle and if it’s worth adding to your collection. Ready to find out if Four Roses belongs on your shelf? Let’s get into it!

Here’s a quick review of what makes Four Roses Bourbon so special:

• Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

• Tasting Notes: Fruits, gentle spices, floral essence, honey, caramel, vanilla, mint, rye

• Distillery: Four Roses Distillery LLC in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky

• Proof: 80 to 104, depending on the expression

• Pros: Approachable, value for money, distinct flavor profile, aged to perfection, smooth and pleasant finish.

• Cons: The flavor profile may be too mild or sweet for some.

Four Roses Bourbon is the signature whiskey from the iconic Four Roses Distillery, with over a century of history behind it. It's all about that smooth mix of fresh fruit, gentle spices, and a spicy finish that lingers just right. Bottled at 80 proof (40% ABV), it's the perfect introduction to the world of bourbon.

That's not all, though. They have three more bourbon variants to explore:

• Small Batch: Aged 6-7 years, 90 proof, with rich fruit flavors and a smooth finish.

• Single Barrel OBSV: Aged 7-9 years, 100 proof, with bold notes of cinnamon, maple, and vanilla. Awarded “Best Single Barrel Bourbon” in 2024.

• Small Batch Select: 104 proof, non-chill-filtered, with vibrant fruit, nutmeg, and a refreshing finish.

The alcohol content of Four Roses Bourbon depends on the expression you choose. It ranges from 80 proof (40% ABV) to 104 proof (52% ABV).

As mentioned above, Four Roses Distillery brings you four incredible bourbons, each one with its own distinct flavor profile. Here's a brief review of each bourbon's flavor profile:

• Four Roses Bourbon: Think fresh apple and pear sweetness, with a kick of floral notes, honey, and a gentle spice that gives it that perfect balance.

• Four Roses Small Batch Bourbon: This one’s richer, packed with dark fruits like cherries and raisins, plus vanilla, caramel, and a smooth, lingering finish.

• Four Roses Single Barrel Bourbon: Bold and intense, featuring ripe cherries, plums, cinnamon, maple syrup, and vanilla. It packs a punch with a 100-proof strength and finishes smooth and long.

• Four Roses Small Batch Select Bourbon: This one delivers a higher-proof hit, bursting with vibrant fruits like apricots and berries, and wrapped up in a crisp finish with hints of cinnamon and spearmint.

Four Roses Bourbon is incredibly versatile, and there’s no wrong way to enjoy it:

• Straight: Sip it neat to dive into its full depth and complexity.

• On the Rocks: Chill it with ice to mellow out the flavors while keeping its character intact.

• With Water: Add a splash of water to smooth out the spice and reveal hidden notes of honey and vanilla.

• In Cocktails: Whether it's an Old Fashioned, a Manhattan, or a Kentucky Mule, it’s the perfect bourbon for mixing up your favorites!

Four Roses Bourbon is the perfect pick for both bourbon newbies and seasoned aficionados. Its smooth, easy-drinking flavor—packed with fresh fruit, spice, and a hint of honey—hits all the right notes. It delivers big on taste without breaking the bank, giving you serious bang for your buck.

Both the Four Roses Single Barrel and Small Batch bourbons are great pours, but they each have their own vibe. The Single Barrel really brings the heat with a bold 100 proof (50% ABV), while the Small Batch comes in at a smooth 90 proof (45% ABV).

Either way, you’re getting incredible value, with both priced between $30 and $50 for a 750ml bottle. So, it’s all about what kind of kick you’re after!

Four Roses Single Barrel Bourbon hits you with fruity, sweet notes that stick around on your palate. You’ll catch a bit of nuttiness on the nose, and its body has this rich, wine-like quality. On the flip side, Four Roses Small Batch bourbon starts with dark fruits and spice, giving you a crisper finish.

Whether you’re in the mood for something sweeter or something with a little more kick, both of these bourbons totally deliver!

Four Roses Bourbon is a fantastic gift for whiskey lovers of all kinds! Its smooth, crowd-pleasing flavor and legendary reputation make it a bottle anyone would love to unwrap. Plus, the sleek bottle design means it’s ready to gift as is, with no wrapping needed.

Want to really WOW a bourbon fan? Sign them up for our Bourbon of the Month Club. Each box features award-winning gems, and we’ve even included Four Roses Small Batch Select in previous boxes. It’s the ultimate treat for any whiskey enthusiast!

You can find Four Roses Bourbon pretty much everywhere—liquor stores, bars, and restaurants all love stocking this classic. Specialty liquor shops often carry the full lineup, so you can explore all the variants in one trip. And if you’re out for cocktails, keep an eye out—upscale bars love featuring Four Roses in their creations.

Want to skip the hunt? Order it online! Platforms like Flaviar make it super easy to grab your favorite bottle and have it delivered right to your door. No lines, no hassle. Just great bourbon made simple.

Four Roses Bourbon won’t break the bank, but the price depends on what you’re after and where you grab it.

A 750ml bottle usually runs between $20 and $60, with the flagship bourbon sitting comfortably in the $20 to $30 sweet spot. If you’re eyeing a rare limited edition, be ready to splurge a bit more.

Sipping it at a bar or restaurant? Expect to shell out $10 to $15 per pour. Whether you’re buying a bottle to savor at home or treating yourself to a night out, Four Roses delivers serious bang for your buck.

If you're a fan of fine spirits, be sure to check out our expert reviews of Angel's Envy Bourbon and Four Roses Bourbon. Both offer unique flavors and craftsmanship that every bourbon enthusiast will appreciate.

Yes, Four Roses Single Barrel Bourbon is absolutely worth putting on your shelf. It’s a fan favorite for a reason, with its rich flavor making it a go-to for both bourbon newbies and seasoned sippers.

Plus, it’s an affordable pick that doesn’t skimp on quality. Ready to see what all the buzz is about? Grab a bottle now and let this versatile bourbon win you over!