Four Roses has always held an interesting place in my bourbon collection. It falls into that weird mainstream yet oddly limited release distillery, so when I had the opportunity to try the Limited Edition 17-1C, I couldn’t resist. As part of their acclaimed limited-edition lineup, I knew this release would showcase the craftsmanship and nuanced blending that Four Roses is famous for. What I didn’t anticipate, however, was just how unique and memorable this particular barrel would be.
The Story Behind 17-1C
Each Four Roses Limited Edition Single Barrel is a unique expression, and this one—OBSV recipe, aged for 12 years and 8 months—stood out right away. The OBSV recipe, with its high rye mash bill and delicate yeast strain known for producing a floral and fruity profile, has always been a favorite of mine. With an extra layer of complexity from its extended aging and hand-selection as a limited-edition release, Barrel 17-1C promised an elevated experience that I couldn’t wait to dive into.
First Impressions
The bottle, as always with Four Roses, was elegant and timeless, letting the whiskey itself take center stage. Pouring it into the glass, I was immediately struck by its rich, amber-gold color that hinted at both depth and balance. The legs were thick and slow to form, a subtle promise of the richness to come.
The Nose
The aroma was captivating from the first moment. A bouquet of caramelized sugar, ripe red berries, and vanilla bean rose to greet me. There was an underlying layer of floral notes—think honeysuckle and lavender—that added a level of intrigue. The rye spice began to peek through as the whiskey opened up, alongside hints of orange zest, toasted oak, and a faint touch of leather. It was one of those noses that made me linger for a few minutes, savoring every nuance before moving on to the sip.
The Palate
It opened with a burst of sweetness—dark honey, caramel, and stewed fruits—balanced beautifully by the rye spice that’s a hallmark of the OBSV recipe. Mid-palate, the flavors evolved into something richer and more complex. Notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and dark chocolate emerged, along with a hint of stone fruit, like apricots or peaches.
What stood out most to me was the balance. Despite its 12+ years in the barrel, the oak influence was perfectly integrated, offering structure and depth without overpowering the brighter, fruitier elements. Every sip seemed to offer something new, from gentle floral undertones to bold spice and warming oak.
The Mouthfeel
The mouthfeel was full—velvety and full-bodied without being heavy. It coated my palate beautifully, delivering a richness that lingered but never felt cloying. It was the kind of texture that makes you savor every drop.
The Finish
The finish was long and elegant, a true testament to the whiskey’s quality. It began with a warming rye spice and oak, but as it lingered, sweeter notes of vanilla, caramel, and dark fruit made a comeback. There was also a touch of tobacco and leather in the final moments, adding a sophisticated layer of depth. Even minutes after the sip, I could still feel its presence—a hallmark of a truly exceptional bourbon.
Final Thoughts
Four Roses Single Barrel Limited Edition 17-1C is nothing short of a great. It manages to balance sweetness, spice, and oak in a way that feels effortless, yet you can sense the meticulous care that went into its selection and aging. As someone who’s tried many Four Roses offerings, this one stands out as a testament to their ability to create something both complex and approachable.
Would I recommend it? Yes. This is a bourbon for those who appreciate the art of whiskey-making and want to experience something truly unique. It’s the kind of pour you save for special occasions—or moments when you just want to treat yourself to something extraordinary. The only thing to bear in mind is the price. At around $120, it's quite pricey, even for a single barrel LE release. While it certainly stands out in terms of quality, and is without a doubt a top shelf offering, the price is one to make you pause.
Would I Buy It Again? If I could, absolutely. Bottles like this don’t stay on shelves long, but it’s worth seeking out.
Score: 8.2/10
Final Verdict: A perfect example of Four Roses’ ability to craft a bourbon that’s as complex as it is drinkable, and one that leaves a lasting impression with every sip.
As always, enjoy and drink safely!
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