Last Updated on: 10th April 2024, 12:52 am
J Highland
J Highland is a certified sommelier with 30 years in the liquor industry, owning a pub, a liquor store, and moonlighting as a spirits distiller.
Discover the differences between Four Roses Small Batch vs Four Roses Small Batch Select this in-depth comparison and choose your next sip!
Quick Note: Running a pub and liquor store provides me ample access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as a spirits distiller. I assess them using customer feedback, expert opinions and online research.
Written by: J Highland
Four Roses Small Batch vs Small Batch Select: Comparison
Four Roses Small Batch: Smooth, sweet with vanilla, cherry, and oak notes. Affordable, balanced, and perfect for everyday sipping.
Four Roses Small Batch Select: Rich in caramel and spice, higher proof for depth. Offers complexity and smoothness.
Key Difference: Four Roses Small Batch is bottled at 90 proof and undergoes chill filtration, whereas Small Batch Select, at 104 proof, is unfiltered for a richer, more nuanced flavor.
Verdict: Both Four Roses Small Batch and Four Roses Small Batch Select stand out for their unique qualities; the former for its smoothness and affordability, the latter for its rich flavor and complexity, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Best-Rated Four Roses Bourbons
Four Roses Small Batch: A Smooth & Sweet Sip That Won’t Break the Bank
- Nose: Vanilla, cherry, oak
- Palate: Vanilla, oak, baking spice
- Finish: Long, burnt caramel
- Alcohol content: 90 proof (45% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
- Similar to: Angel’s Envy
Imagine: vanilla and cherry swirling on your nose, with a gentle whisper of oak. That’s the sweet welcome of Four Roses Small Batch, a bourbon known for its smooth sippin’ experience.
Take a sip, and feel the creamy goodness melt on your tongue. Vanilla and caramel lead the flavor parade, joined by a touch of rye spice for a well-rounded kick.
The finish? Long and pleasant, with a gentle burnt caramel warmth that lingers without burning. This ain’t no harsh bourbon!
Here’s why you’ll love it:
- Better than basic: Outshines the Yellow Label and its rivals like Bulleit, offering more complexity and smoothness.
- Perfectly balanced: Sweetness and spice tango in perfect harmony, making it easy to drink neat.
- Affordable champion: Delivers exceptional value for your money, perfect for everyday enjoyment.
Bonus facts:
- Blended magic: Combines four unique Kentucky bourbons, each aged at least 4 years.
- Secret sauce: Each bourbon uses a different yeast strain, adding depth and intrigue.
- Four cask construction: Each batch uses only 4 casks, ensuring consistent quality.
Ready for a smooth, sweet, and budget-friendly bourbon adventure? Give Four Roses Small Batch a try – you won’t be disappointed!
Four Roses Small Batch Select: A Caramel & Spice Symphony
- Nose: Caramel, cinnamon, vanilla, oak
- Palate: Cherry, cinnamon, oak, butterscotch
- Finish: Caramel, baking spice, charred oak
- Alcohol content: 104 proof (52% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
- Similar to: Four Roses Single Barrel
Imagine: warm caramel melting on your nose, dusted with a hint of cinnamon. That’s the inviting aroma of Four Roses Small Batch Select, a bourbon known for its rich, flavorful profile.
Take a sip, and experience a delightful sweetness of caramel. Cinnamon and nutmeg join the party, adding depth and warmth. Oak whispers in the background, providing a sturdy foundation.
The finish? Long and satisfying, like a lingering warmth and the taste of baking spices mingled with charred oak. Don’t let the 104 proof fool you, it stays smooth with a buttery mouthfeel.
But here’s the deal: This bourbon packs a punch! Neat is great, but a few drops of water can tame the heat and let the oak shine.
Why choose Small Batch Select?
- Step up from the regular Small Batch: If you’re ready for a richer experience, this is your answer.
- Well-balanced & flavorful: Caramel, spice, and oak create a harmonious symphony in your glass.
- Quality & value: This bourbon delivers, making it a worthy investment for its taste and price.
Bonus facts:
- Aged at least 6 years, blending 10 of Four Roses’ unique bourbon recipes.
- First new brand extension in 12 years, introduced in 2019.
- Owned by Kirin Brewery Company, a Japanese powerhouse.
Ready to explore a richer bourbon experience? Four Roses Small Batch Select might just be your perfect match!
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Bourbon | Price |
| Four Roses Small Batch | $39 |
| Four Roses Small Batch Select | $64 |