Last Updated on: 11th April 2024, 03:29 pm
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 Bulleit Bourbon vs Four Roses 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
Bulleit Bourbon vs Four Roses Yellow Label: Comparison
Bulleit Bourbon: Known for its bold rye spice yet smooth finish, Bulleit Bourbon offers a perfect balance for those who like their whiskey with a kick. It’s great both neat and in cocktails, priced at $33.
Four Roses Small Batch: A sweet, smooth bourbon with vanilla and baking spice flavors, Four Roses Small Batch is ideal for sippers seeking complexity without overpowering spice. Aged for a minimum of 4 years, it’s priced at $40.
Something to Know: Four Roses and Bulleit include a higher proportion of rye grain in their bourbon recipes compared to the norm, resulting in a spicier flavor profile attributed to the characteristics of rye. However, they do not quite reach the level of spiciness found in pure rye whiskey.
Verdict: Whether you prefer the spicy kick of Bulleit Bourbon or the sweet smoothness of Four Roses Small Batch, both bourbons offer distinct tasting experiences for their price points. Choose Bulleit for a spicier sip or Four Roses for a smoother, sweeter pour, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Top-Sipping Bourbons for less than $30
Bulleit Bourbon: Rye Spice with a Smooth Touch

- Alcohol content: 90 proof (45% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks, cocktails
- Similar to: Basil Hayden’s
Spice things up with Bulleit Bourbon! This Kentucky spirit delivers a bold rye punch balanced by a sweet, smooth finish.
First sniff: Prepare for a warm wave of rye spice, followed by hints of cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg.
On the palate: The rye influence shines right away, offering a satisfyingly spicy kick. As you savor, dried fruit and nutty notes emerge, adding depth and complexity.
The finish: A warming sensation lingers with robust spices and oak, balanced by a touch of sweetness that ties everything together.
Good stuff? Absolutely! Bulleit Bourbon strikes a perfect balance: spicy like a rye, smooth like a bourbon. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a rye kick without the full-on burn.
Versatile too! Enjoy it neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails like Old Fashioned or Whiskey Sour. The rye adds an interesting twist to classic drinks, making them even more complex and exciting.
Here’s the scoop:
- Mash bill: 68% corn, 28% rye, 4% malted barley
- Made with Kentucky limestone water and local ingredients
- Aged 6 years in charred oak barrels
- Double Gold medal winner at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition
Looking for a spicy yet smooth bourbon? Bulleit Bourbon is your answer! Give it a try and see for yourself.
Bonus tip: Want to impress your friends? Use Bulleit Bourbon in your next cocktail creation for a unique and flavorful experience.
Learn more: Bulleit Bourbon Web
Four Roses Small Batch: Sweet Sipping Satisfaction

- Alcohol content: 90 proof (45% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
- Similar to: 1792 Small Batch
Craving a smooth, sweet whiskey with a touch of spice? Look no further than Four Roses Small Batch. This Kentucky bourbon boasts a creamy body and enticing flavors that make it a delight for both sipping and mixing.
On the nose, it delivers a pleasing aroma of vanilla, cherry, and hints of oak. Take a sip, and you’ll be greeted by a rich blend of vanilla, caramel, and rye spice, balanced by a subtle oakiness. The finish is smooth and long, with a lingering warmth and a touch of burnt caramel sweetness.
What makes it special? Four Roses Small Batch is a carefully crafted blend of four different Kentucky bourbons. Each bourbon features a unique mash bill and yeast strain, resulting in a complex and layered flavor profile. This blend also boasts a minimum of 4 years of aging, ensuring a refined and smooth experience.
Need to know more? Here are some key facts:
- Made with two mash bills: 60% corn, 35% rye, and 5% malted barley (2 bourbons) and 75% corn, 20% rye, and 5% malted barley (2 bourbons)
- Each bourbon uses a unique yeast strain for distinct flavors
- Aged for a minimum of 4 years in one-story rickhouses
- Only 4 casks used per batch for consistent quality
Is it worth it? Absolutely! Four Roses Small Batch is a crowd-pleaser that offers great value for the price. Whether you’re a seasoned whiskey lover or just starting your journey, this smooth and flavorful bourbon is sure to impress. Give it a try and see for yourself!
Bonus tip: Enjoy Four Roses Small Batch neat, on the rocks, or in your favorite cocktail. Its versatility makes it a perfect addition to your home bar.
Learn more: Four Roses Web
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Whiskey | Price |
| Bulleit Bourbon | $33 |
| Four Roses Small Batch | $40 |
