Four Roses Small Batch vs Four Roses Yellow Label

Last Updated on: 9th April 2024, 08:26 pm

Discover the differences between Four Roses Small Batch vs Four Roses Yellow Label in this in-depth comparison and decide which bourbon is better for You!

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 Yellow Label: Comparison

Four Roses Small Batch: A harmonious blend of sweetness and spice, offering a creamy mouthfeel with notes of vanilla, oak, and baking spice, and a long finish of burnt caramel. Ideal for those seeking complexity in a smooth, satisfying sip.

Four Roses Yellow Label: An approachable and budget-friendly bourbon, featuring smooth, fruity flavors of honey, apple, and citrus, with a gentle oak spice finish. Perfect for casual sipping or mixing, especially for beginners or those looking for an easy-drinking bourbon.

Key Difference: The Four Roses Small Batch and Yellow Label whiskeys differ in their composition, with the Small Batch being a blend of four distinct whiskeys and offering 90 proof, whereas the Yellow Label is a blend of ten whiskeys with 80 proof, resulting in the Small Batch maintaining a more robust character due to less dilution with water when extracted from the barrel.

The Verdict: Both Four Roses Small Batch and Yellow Label provide distinct bourbon experiences tailored to different preferences. Small Batch caters to those looking for a deeper, complex flavor profile, while Yellow Label offers a light, fruity option that’s both affordable and versatile, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.

Related: Best Four Roses Bourbon Picks

Four Roses Small Batch: Sweet & Spicy Symphony for Sipping Pleasure

• 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: Elijah Craig

Craving a bourbon that offers complexity without sacrificing smoothness? Four Roses Small Batch might be your answer. This balanced and flavorful spirit blends sweetness with spice, delivering a creamy and satisfying sipping experience.

First whiff: Prepare for a wave of prominent sweetness, accompanied by subtle hints of vanilla, cherry, and oak.

On the palate: Embrace a rich and creamy mouthfeel, bursting with flavors of vanilla, caramel, and rye spice. The oak influence adds depth without overpowering the experience.

The finish: Expect a delightfully long farewell, leaving a taste of burnt caramel while remaining smooth and mellow with minimal burn.

Why choose Four Roses Small Batch?

• Sweet & spicy harmony: This well-balanced bourbon offers a pleasing interplay of sweetness and spice, keeping things interesting.
• Creamy & smooth: The luxurious mouthfeel makes it a joy to sip.
• No need for dilution: It’s enjoyable neat, without any harshness.
• Nuanced complexity: Despite its smoothness, it offers hidden depths to explore.

Bonus facts:

• Four-way blend: Crafted from a combination of four distinct Kentucky bourbons, each with its own character.
• Mash bill magic: Uses two different mash bills for added complexity.
• Unique yeast: Each bourbon is fermented with a special yeast culture, contributing to its individual flavor.
• Minimum 4 years of aging: Ensures depth and maturity of taste.

Ready to embark on a smooth and flavorful bourbon journey with a touch of complexity? Give Four Roses Small Batch a try! Cheers!

Four Roses Yellow Label: Smooth & Fruity Bourbon for Everyday Enjoyment

• Nose: Caramel, honey, pear
• Palate: Honey, apple, cinnamon, citrus, oak
• Finish: Fruity, oak spice
• Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
• How to drink: Add water
• Similar to: Evan Williams

Seeking a bourbon that’s easy on the wallet and easy on the palate? Four Roses Yellow Label might be your match. This affordable and approachable spirit offers a smooth and fruity flavor profile, making it a great choice for casual sipping or mixing.

First inhale: Delicate aromas of honey and pear greet you, inviting you in for a taste.

On the tongue: Get ready for a delightful dance of sweet and refreshing apple, accompanied by hints of citrus, cinnamon, and a touch of oak.

The finish: Expect a long and lingering farewell, showcasing a fruity character with gentle oak spice and a warming touch.

Why choose Four Roses Yellow Label?

• Smooth & affordable: This budget-friendly option delivers a pleasant sipping experience without breaking the bank.
• Fruity delight: The profile features appealing fruity notes, making it easy to enjoy.
• Versatile enjoyment: Enjoy it neat, on the rocks, or even in cocktails (although the lower proof might not be ideal for all).
• Great for beginners: Perfect for those new to bourbon, providing a welcoming introduction to the spirit.

Bonus facts:

• Blended magic: Crafted from a blend of 10 different whiskies, each with its own character.
• Double mash bill: Uses two different recipes, offering subtle variations in flavor.
• Consistent aging: All aged in new oak casks for a uniform expression.
• Value champion: Beats out renowned brands in its price range for taste and quality.

Ready for a smooth and fruity bourbon journey without emptying your wallet? Give Four Roses Yellow Label a try! Cheers!

How do Four Roses Small Batch and Yellow Label differ?

The Four Roses Small Batch and Yellow Label exhibit notable distinctions, including their composition.

The Small Batch is crafted by blending four distinct whiskeys, whereas the Yellow Label incorporates a blend of ten whiskeys.

However, the most significant difference lies in their proof.

The Small Batch offers 90 proof, while the Yellow Label is offered at 80 proof.

This disparity in proof results in the Small Batch maintaining a more robust character, as it undergoes less dilution with water when extracted from the barrel.

Price comparison

Prices are approximate and stated in USD:

Whiskey	Price
Four Roses Small Batch Bourbon	$39
Four Roses Yellow Label	$24