Four Roses Bourbon: History, Ownership & Recipes - Your Guide
Could a single sip transport you to a bygone era of romance and craftsmanship? Four Roses bourbon, with its rich history and unique production methods, offers a sensory experience that transcends the ordinary, promising a journey through time with every drop.
The story of Four Roses is woven with threads of passion, perseverance, and a deep appreciation for the art of bourbon making. The ownership of the brand has changed hands over the years, beginning its journey in 1888 in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky. The Canadian drinks company Seagram acquired Four Roses in 1943, two years after the passing of Lavelle Jones, marking a significant chapter in its history. Seagram purchased the Frankfort Distilling Company, along with the iconic Four Roses bourbon. Now owned by Kirin Brewing Company, headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, Four Roses continues to thrive, producing a diverse range of bourbons that captivate whiskey enthusiasts worldwide.
The distillery, nestled in the heart of Kentucky's famed bourbon country, is more than just a production facility; it's a destination. Visitors can embark on a "journey of discovery and tradition" through tours, tastings, and the opportunity to explore the brand's history, process, and recipes. The architectural beauty of the distillery, combined with its unique distilling techniques, makes it a standout on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.
The Four Roses story begins with a romantic tale. Paul Jones, the founder, sought the hand of a beautiful belle. Legend has it that when she arrived at a grand ball wearing a corsage of four red roses, he knew his proposal had been accepted. It was this moment that inspired the name of his bourbon, a symbol of his devotion and the passion he poured into crafting his whiskey. The legacy of this romantic gesture lives on, with Four Roses bourbon representing this passion and the brands commitment to quality.
Four Roses is celebrating its 135th anniversary with a new website and packaging design, a testament to the brand's enduring appeal. This year, the company is also releasing a rare tasting set featuring all ten of Four Roses' proprietary bourbon recipes, giving enthusiasts a chance to delve deep into the intricacies of their unique offerings.
The Four Roses distillery is known for its unique approach to bourbon production, setting it apart from its competitors. The brand combines two distinct mash bills with five proprietary yeast strains, a combination that results in ten unique bourbon recipes, each with its own distinct characteristics. This meticulous process allows Four Roses to create a diverse portfolio of bourbons, catering to a range of palates. The use of different yeast strains and mash bills allows for a broader spectrum of flavors, from fruity and floral to rich and spicy. Each recipe is crafted to highlight the unique qualities of each yeast strain and mash bill, creating complexity and nuance.
Master Distiller Elliott hand selected six of the ten bourbon recipes for Small Batch Select, each aged a minimum of six years, showcasing the brand's commitment to quality. This offering highlights the blending expertise, allowing for complex expressions of flavors and aroma. The company offers various proofed bourbons, including 80 proof (aged minimum 5 years), 90 proof (aged minimum 6 years), and 100 proof (aged minimum 7 years), offering options for every drinker.
For those seeking a high-quality everyday bourbon, Four Roses is a perfect choice. The entry-level bourbon blends all ten unique recipes, offering a comprehensive introduction to the brand's versatility. The "yellow label" bourbon, as it was formerly known, has updated its bottle design.
Four Roses is the seventh most popular brand of bourbon whiskey globally and the second most popular in Japan, underscoring its international appeal. The distillery produces 16 brands, labels, and variations of bourbon, demonstrating its dedication to providing an extensive range of options for bourbon lovers.
Four Roses bourbons are made at the Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, distillery, located at 1224 Bonds Mill Road. Visitors are welcome to explore the distillery, where they can enjoy tastings, cocktails, tours, and the retail shop. The warehouse and bottling facility are located in Cox's Creek, Kentucky.
The upcoming tasting set, available in early 2025, will be a valuable experience for any bourbon enthusiast. This collection will be available at retailers nationwide and for purchase at the Four Roses Distillery Visitors Center in Lawrenceburg, KY, or the Four Roses Warehouse & Bottling Facility in Cox's Creek, KY (while supplies last).
Four Roses Small Batch Select is a standout expression. This expression blends six recipes, using unique yeast strains with different mash bills. The brand's commitment to craftsmanship and innovation solidifies its place in the world of bourbon whiskey.
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The unique combination of two mash bills and five proprietary yeasts results in ten distinct bourbon recipes. Each recipe offers a different flavor profile, showcasing the brand's dedication to variety and quality. This approach allows for different experiences, making Four Roses appealing to a wide audience.
This makes Four Roses a unique and compelling choice in the world of bourbon.
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