Al Young, the legendary brand ambassador of Four Roses, was more than just the face of the brand; he was the heartbeat a true walking, talking Bourbon encyclopedia. With a dedication spanning more than five decades, Al witnessed the ups and downs of Four Roses, becoming the brand’s historian. His passion and knowledge are beautifully captured in the book “Four Roses: The Return of a Whiskey Legend,” a testament to his tireless work in documenting the brand’s journey from its humble beginnings to its modern-day resurgence.

Four Roses dedicated its spring-time limited edition small batch 50th Anniversary Barrel Strength whiskey to Young. This special release is a fitting tribute to a man who was instrumental in shaping the legacy of Four Roses. Al Young passed away in 2019; his spirit is greatly missed! He was a huge inspiration on my whiskey journey.

Average Retail Price: $1,970+

Four Roses 50th Anniversary Tasting Notes

Appearance: In the glass, the Four Roses Small Batch 50th Anniversary bourbon displays a deep, rich amber color, glowing warmly as the light catches it. The legs are slow to form.

Nose: On the nose, this bourbon is a symphony of aromas. It opens with a rich bouquet of maple, vanilla, and dark chocolate, underpinned by a robust oak presence. As it breathes, secondary notes of dried fruit, particularly fig and raisin, come forward, mingling with hints of toasted almonds and a subtle spice—perhaps cinnamon or nutmeg. The complexity is bold, each layer revealing itself slowly, inviting you to take your time and savor the experience.

Palate: My palate is greeted with a thin, velvety mouthfeel. The oak stands out on the first sip, opening up to deliver notes of caramel, ripe fruit, and a touch of leather. As it develops, the bourbon reveals deeper layers—spiced oak, a hint of tobacco, and a touch of sweet vanilla. The balance is elegant, and the alcohol strength provides a warm, robust backbone without overwhelming the nuanced flavors.

Finish: The finish is not as noteworthy as I hoped for. A lingering warmth and the spicy notes are slow to fade, but not much interplay going on here.

Overall Impression

Four Roses Small Batch 50th Anniversary Barrel Strength is a special bourbon, more than just a unique blending; it is a gift and a reminder of the legacy of Al Young. The complexity of the nose carries over to the palate. Maple, peppery, rye, and vanilla notes are satisfying and encourage another sip to uncover the deeper subtleties.

Conclusion

If you’re a bourbon lover with an appreciation for bold flavors and intricate nuances, the Four Roses Small Batch 50th Anniversary Barrel Strength is a fine addition to your collection. I will forever think of Al Young every time I sip Four Roses.

Have you had the chance to taste this special release?

Share your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear about your experience with this extraordinary bourbon.