Four Roses was established in 1888 by Paul Jones Jr., who named the brand after a romantic legend – he proposed to a Southern belle, and she replied affirmatively by wearing a corsage of four roses. Thus, the name was born.
Though once America’s best-selling bourbon, Four Roses disappeared from U.S. shelves in the mid-20th century due to a shift to overseas markets. Thankfully, it made a powerful comeback in the early 2000s after being acquired by Japan’s Kirin Brewery Company. Today, it is crafted in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, and aged in Cox’s Creek.
Table of Contents
Distillery Location
- Distillery: Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, USA
- Warehouse and Bottling: Cox’s Creek, Kentucky
Craftsmanship: The Power of 10 Recipes
What sets Four Roses apart is its unique use of 10 different bourbon recipes, made by combining two mash bills and five proprietary yeast strains. Master Distiller Brent Elliott masterfully blends these recipes for exceptional balance, consistency, and complexity.
- Mash Bills: 75% corn, 20% rye, 5% malted barley (Mash Bill B) and 60% corn, 35% rye, 5% malted barley (Mash Bill E)
- Yeast Strains: V, K, O, Q, F – each adds different flavor notes (e.g., spice, fruit, floral)
- Aging: Minimum 5 years, with some expressions aged over 10 years
Tasting Notes (Four Roses Yellow Label / Bourbon)
- Color: Golden amber
- Aroma: Fresh fruit, gentle spice, floral honey
- Palate: Smooth and mellow with notes of pear, apple, caramel, and vanilla
- Finish: Soft, rounded, and delicately dry
Four Roses is highly versatile – ideal for sipping or mixing.
Global Price Comparison (750ml Bottle – Four Roses Bourbon/Yellow Label)
| Country | Approx. Retail Price |
|---|---|
| United States | $22 – $30 USD |
| United Kingdom | £24 – £30 GBP |
| India | ₹3,000 – ₹4,000 INR |
| Australia | AUD 55 – AUD 65 |
| Canada | CAD 35 – CAD 45 |
| Japan | ¥2,900 – ¥4,000 |
Note: Prices vary based on taxes, import duties, and retailer location.
Awards and Recognition
- Gold – San Francisco World Spirits Competition
- “Best Kentucky Straight Bourbon” – World Whiskies Awards
- Wine Enthusiast: 90+ point ratings
Popular Cocktails with Four Roses
- Whiskey Smash
- Four Roses Mint Julep
- Boulevardier
- Whiskey Collins
FAQs
Q1: What makes Four Roses unique?
Its 10-recipe blending system using proprietary yeast and two mash bills.
Q2: Is Four Roses good for beginners?
Yes, especially the Yellow Label – it’s smooth, fruity, and approachable.
Q3: Who owns Four Roses?
It is currently owned by Kirin Brewery Company, Japan.
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