Four Roses Small Batch Select vs Angel's Envy: Bourbon Comparison

Last Updated on: 9th April 2024, 02:13 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 Four Roses Small Batch vs Angel’s Envy in this head-to-head 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

Smoothness Redefined: Four Roses vs. Angel’s Envy

Four Roses Small Batch Select boasts exceptional smoothness, a blend of four bourbons offering a symphony of vanilla, baking spice, and burnt caramel. It shines neat, making it a sipper’s dream. Consider it for luxury smoothness.

Angel’s Envy breaks the bourbon mold with its port cask finish, introducing intriguing notes of coconut, chocolate, and maple syrup. Enjoy it with brunch or add a twist to classic cocktails. Think unique sweetness and complexity.

Choosing between them is subjective. Four Roses prioritizes ultimate smoothness, while Angel’s Envy focuses on unique flavor exploration. Neither is objectively “better”, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.

Price wise: Four Roses demands a premium for its unique blending and smoothness, while Angel’s Envy offers a touch of refinement at a more accessible price.

Ultimately, the choice depends on your individual preferences:

Craving pure smoothness? Four Roses awaits.
Seeking a unique flavor adventure? Angel’s Envy beckons.

Four Roses Small Batch: A Symphony of Smoothness

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: Woodford Reserve

Four Roses Small Batch isn’t your average bourbon. This captivating expression is a harmonious blend of four unique bourbons, each with its own personality, culminating in a truly remarkable sip.

Aromatic Allure: Take a whiff and be captivated by pronounced sweetness, followed by subtle hints of vanilla, cherry, and oak. It’s an invitation to a flavor journey.

Palatial Delight: Dive into a creamy and smooth texture, where vanilla, caramel, and rye spice dance in perfect balance. A gentle touch of oak adds depth without overpowering.

Lingering Bliss: The long and satisfying finish leaves behind a sweet trace of burnt caramel, all delivered with exceptional smoothness and no harsh burn.

Is it good? More than good, it’s exceptional. The appealing balance between sweet and spicy notes, combined with the luxurious texture and smooth finish, makes it a sipper’s dream. No need for extra ice or water – this one goes down oh-so-smooth.

Four Roses Small Batch facts:

A blend of four unique Kentucky bourbons, each with its own mash bill and yeast strain.
Aged for a minimum of 4 years.
Crafted using only 4 casks per release, ensuring consistency and quality.

Ready to elevate your bourbon experience? Four Roses Small Batch might just be your new go-to for a smooth and flavorful journey. Remember, its strength lies in the unique blend and meticulous crafting, not just high proof.

Angel’s Envy: Where Bourbon Meets Port Wine

Nose: Coconut, chocolate, vanilla
Palate: Bread, maple syrup, caramel, vanilla
Finish: Toasted oak, baking spice
Alcohol content: 86 proof (43% ABV)
How to drink: Add water
Similar to: Widow Jane

Angel’s Envy is no ordinary bourbon. Its secret weapon? A finishing touch in port casks, imbuing it with uniquely intriguing flavors.

Aromatic Voyage: Forget classic bourbon notes. Dive into coconut, chocolate, and vanilla, a delightful departure from the norm.

Palate Intrigue: While slightly thin, it surprises with a spicy whisper of red wine, intertwined with maple syrup, caramel, and warm baking spices.

Lingering Delight: The long, moderately sweet finish leaves you with toasted oak and lingering spice, begging for another sip.

Is it a good find? Absolutely! This smooth and interesting pour is a brunchtime champion, adding a unique twist to your morning mimosa. While a higher proof might enhance the experience, it’s already quite enjoyable.

Angel’s Envy facts:

Aged 4-6 years.
72% corn, 18% rye, and 10% malted barley mash bill.
98 points from Wine Enthusiast and 5 stars from F. Paul Pacult’s Spirit Journal.
Created by Master Distiller Lincoln Henderson (Woodford Reserve & Gentleman Jack).

Ready to explore a bourbon beyond the expected? Angel’s Envy might just be your new brunchtime favorite. Remember, its charm lies in its unique port cask finish, not necessarily a powerhouse proof.