Four Roses Single Barrel OESK Review

Distillery: Four Roses Bourbon – Lawrenceburg, Kentucky

Proof: 100 (50% ABV)

Age: Seven to Nine Years

Mashbill: 75% Corn, 20% Rye, 5% Malted Barley

MSRP: $50

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Who They Are

Four Roses Bourbon is a globally recognized brand.  Most within the Insiders’ Community are familiar with the brand and its offerings.  For those new to Four Roses, it is crucial to understand they utilize a system of ten recipes, each featuring a distinct combination of mashbill and yeast strain.  This approach to whiskey production has made Four Roses one of the most awarded brands.

The recently released Four Roses Single Barrel Collection features four distinct recipes. This review delves into the OESK recipe, where the “K” yeast strain accentuates spicy characteristics. This, combined with a 20% rye mashbill, results in a robust and flavorful expression.

Aged for 7-9 years and bottled at barrel strength, OESK offers a taste of yet another distinguished Four Roses expression.

Four Roses Single Barrel OESK Review: Tasting Notes

Nose – 4.5/5

The Nose of OESK is bold.  Rich caramel and molasses create a sweet base layer, while bright notes of orange zest add a pop of fruitiness.  Hints of cracked black pepper and toasted oak introduce a warm, muted spice character.

Palate – 4/5

The Palate for OESK is a wonderfully rich blend of spiced goodness along with sweet undertones.  The rye contributes a vibrant peppery spice that is beautifully balanced by flavors of brown sugar, spiced apples and butterscotch.  Toasted almond notes make an appearance mid-Palate, adding a layer of nutty complexity.  The full-bodied mouthfeel provides a satisfying prelude to the Finish.

Finish – 3.75/5

The Finish is spicy and warm with hints of clove and cinnamon interwoven with charred oak.  However, a tangy tannic note slightly diminishes the otherwise remarkable Finish.

Value – 4/5

Four Roses Single Barrel OESK is a rye-forward bourbon that highlights the distillery’s expertise in crafting unique, complex recipes. From the bold Nose to the layered Palate and lingering Finish, this bourbon is a journey in flavor. For those looking to sample the Four Roses’ ten-recipe system, OESK delivers spice, balance, and richness that will leave a lasting impression.  At a $50 MSRP, this is a high value expression and one that belongs at the top of your hunting list.

Four Roses Single Barrel OESK: The Verdict

Verdict – 4.5/5

We score each bourbon based on nose, palate, finish, and value.

Scoring System:

• Platinum – 4.5 – 5
• Gold – 4 – 4.5
• Silver – 3 – 4
• Bronze – <3