From the Top 5 Bourbons $25-$50 list...

With the exception of their limited edition release in the fall/winter every year, Four Roses is one of the six major distilleries that really flies under the radar a bit in the bourbon world, if that's even possible.  The core lineup that whiskey drinkers are after though - Single Barrel, Small Batch Select, and Single Barrel Barrel Proof is an incredibly solid, well-priced group of products.  And if you're unaware, Four Roses produces 10 different bourbon recipes.  They do this with 2 different mash bills - 1 high rye and 1 low rye - and 5 different yeast strains.  For more information on the recipes and how to read a Four Roses label, here is a great post: https://lostcargo.com/article/how-to-identify-four-roses-single-barrel-recipes-by-their-bottle-labels/

Given the 10 different recipes and the information provided on the labels, this provides the opportunity for enthusiasts to complete "nerd out" on Four Roses.  You could get into a deep rabbit hole of tasting all 10 recipes, finding bottles from a particular warehouse, a particular tier (floor), or any combination of these.  I have yet to reach that point in my journey but here's a hint for the Barrel Proof offering - the rumor is that generally, the bottles from Tier 5 or 6 are the honey barrels.  

Back to this bottle and its place on the list.  coming in at number 4 (how appropriate) on the best bourbons under $50 is Four Roses Single Barrel.  Now, I mentioned the 10 different recipes but this bottle is always produced with the same recipe, OBSV.  This is the "B" mash bill which is the high-rye one and yeast strain "V" which is described as "Delicate fruit, spicy, & creamy."  It is always produced at 100 proof as well.

Stats: NAS (rumored 6-7 yrs); OBSV recipe 60% Corn, 35% Rye, 5% Malted Barley; 100 proof; $45

Verdict: I find that I typically gravitate to the E recipe (low rye) of Four Roses but this bottle is really good and always really consistent!  The "extra" rye provides a great balance between the sweet fruit and spicy components that add complexity to the pour.  Typically, you will find a sip of this nature to flow from sweet to oak to spicy in that order based on how your taste buds are constructed in your mouth (more on that another time).  This one literally "hits different."  The rye spice is the first thing I notice but it transitions to a honey and fruit combination.  You won't notice a lot of oak here but it is present.  A long finish ends this delightful sip.  You want a bottle that you can always find, afford, and know will be great? This is it.  Go get it.