Four Roses Small Batch

Intro:  From Four Roses website:

If you've ever wanted proof that mingling bourbons is an art unto itself, you'll find it in this perfectly balanced, small batch bourbon.  Four original and limited bourbon recipes have been expertly selected by our Master Distiller at the peak of maturation to create this very mellow and perfectly balanced bourbon.  You can enjoy it best straight up, on the rocks or simply with a splash.  90 proof.  45% alcohol/volume.

Wow, I think in that 3 sentence paragraph, they wanted to emphasize the perfect balance of this bourbon.  Well, let's see if their self review holds water or is a bunch of perfectly balanced bullshit!  The nose is promising to their cause...slight alcohol fume but a damn good aroma.  It is very similar in nose to the single barrel, perhaps even smoother.  Again, I am optimistic.

Now for the ole tasty taste!  Very smooth...no heat whatsoever on the lips or tongue.  You can gargle this bourbon and it will not offend you.  I like it better than the single barrel, which I also thought was decent.  The finish is as smooth as the first sip and leaves hardly any heat in the throat.  It has been a while since I have had any of this bourbon, but I remember it being one of my early favorites.  Methinks I shall bring it back into my regular rotation!

Is it worth the $?  

I can't honestly remember what I paid for this but I am confident I got it at the Navy Exchange and they are priced just under $40.  I am good with that price....I think it is worth it.  Again, I compare to the inexpensive prices of Eagle Rare and Elijah Craig, but I don't think those are fair comparisons because those are insane deals on two marquee bourbons.  Well done Four Roses Small Batch, you earned your rebirth in my drinking circle!