The name Four Roses comes from a story about its founder, Paul Jones Jr., who in the 1880s became captivated by a Southern belle. He proposed, and she told him that if her answer was yes, she would wear a corsage of four red roses to the upcoming grand ball. That night, she walked in wearing them. Jones named his bourbon after that moment — a symbol of a love that he, as the legend goes, thereafter transferred entirely to the making of his whiskey. That dedication to craft has been the spirit of Four Roses ever since.
Four Roses Bourbon — also known as the Yellow Label — is the entry point to one of the most technically sophisticated distilleries in Kentucky. While most bourbon brands blend from one or two recipes, Four Roses produces ten: two mashbills and five proprietary yeast strains, each creating distinctly different flavor profiles from delicate fruit to robust spice. The Yellow Label blends all ten together, creating a bourbon that is simultaneously more complex than its approachable character suggests and more affordable than its quality deserves. At 80 proof it's the perfect everyday bourbon and an exceptional cocktail base.
ABV / Proof
| Distillery |
Four Roses Distillery, Lawrenceburg, Kentucky (Est. 1888) |
| Master Distiller |
Brent Elliott |
| Type |
Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey |
| Blend |
All 10 Four Roses recipes — both mashbills and all five proprietary yeast strains |
| Age |
Minimum 5 years, with older barrels included in the blend |
| Proof |
80 Proof |
| ABV |
40% |
| Bottle Size |
750ml |
| Country |
United States, Kentucky |
Tasting Notes
Nose: Fresh pear, light fruitiness, delicate floral notes, gentle spice and honey — soft and inviting, the blending of all 10 recipes creates an immediately approachable aroma
Palate: Crisp yet soft and smooth — fresh orchard fruit, hints of apple and honey, toasted barrel influence and subtle spice from the high-rye mashbill in the blend
Finish: Soft and smooth with a gentle fade — clean and satisfying, leaving the door open for another pour
FAQ
How is Four Roses Bourbon different from Four Roses Small Batch and Single Barrel?
All three come from the same distillery and the same ten recipes. Four Roses Bourbon blends all ten together at 80 proof — the broadest, most approachable expression. Small Batch selects four specific recipes and bottles at 90 proof, offering more complexity and weight. Single Barrel isolates one barrel from the OBSV recipe at 100 proof, letting a single barrel's character speak on its own. Think of them as increasing intensity and focus across the same foundational quality.
Is Four Roses Bourbon good for cocktails?
It's one of the best-value cocktail bourbons available. The 80 proof and fruit-forward profile make it exceptionally versatile — excellent in an Old Fashioned, Whiskey Sour, Paper Plane, or any bourbon cocktail where you want the spirit to integrate rather than dominate. Its gentle spice and floral notes also make it one of the most food-friendly bourbons at any price.
Where can I buy Four Roses Bourbon online?
Available here at Liquor On Broadway — fast, insured shipping nationwide.
