Four Roses Private Selection (New York OEBQ 11 yr 8 month)

The nose is full of charred oak mixed with vibrant floral rye spice, there is a slight hint of spearmint alongside vanilla and molasses. As it breathes, it all comes together giving you the unmistakable nose of Four Roses. The palate starts off gently, but quickly turns dry yet rich, and unleashes a wave of strong rye spice all throughout the mouth. Charred oak and vanilla take a back seat to the strong floral notes, yet keep the rye by balanced. The OBSQ mahbill is known for being high rye and for being strong on floral essence, and this is a perfect example of that without being overpowering. Despite being nearly 12 years old, the amount of oak is perfect to complement the rye without being too dominant. This is from warehouse number RS, barrel number 23-1E, and being only tier 1 probably contributes to how easily you can sit on this. It's gentle yet bold and at the same, time the next sip is irresistible. The finish is medium long and leaves the mouth tingling with rice spice, while the floral notes stay lingering for quite some time. In the background, oak and vanilla are present and as you chew, the slightest bit of molasses can be coaxed out. This is a fairly simple bourbon, but it is done exceptionally well and that is part of the allure of these private selections. This is exactly what you would hope all bourbon would be, simple and uncomplicated, yet rich in its flavors and intensity. A little while after your sip, you do get very pleasant notes of oak still remaining in your mouth. This is an absolutely delightful finish that rounds out the experience of drinking this whiskey in the most perfect way.