In 2002, Diageo (the world’s largest distiller
at the time) acquired the Four Roses brand and sold it to Kirin Brewery Company
of Japan. While there are many Four Roses products available in the United
States, there are two bourbons exclusively exported and sold in Japan- Four
Roses Black Label and Four Roses Super Premium. My brother-in-law acquired this
bottle through a friend who visited Japan a while back, and he cracked it
open for the Holidays.
Details:
No Age Statement
86 proof
Price: $59
Nose: Waves of vanilla and caramel with a trace of marmalade.
It’s an aroma blended with a multitude of spices, from cinnamon, nutmeg, and tobacco.
Taste: Extremely smooth, with
an edgy oak note that wafts in and out of the sweetness. Orange zest and cherries
mix with tobacco, black pepper and other baking spices.
Finish: Quick yet drying with a subtle oak.
Conclusion: Four Roses Super Premium leans
heavy on the rye and baking spice spectrum. At 86 proof it drinks fairly light,
but the extra spice gives it a kick that makes me think I am dealing with a
higher ABV. It’s a unique, however,
very enjoyable bourbon. If I could find another bottle at MSRP, I’d buy it,
but I’m not going to fly around the world for anything under 100 proof.
Rating: B+ (Very Good)