A couple months ago I decided to revisit some of the bottom shelf bourbons under $25. This is where most of us started, many of us graduate and move on to mid and top shelf selections where flavor complexity and nuances open our eyes to the ever developing world of this delightful golden amber spirit. So does that mean the bottom shelf doesn’t have anything of value or interest for those of us that are a bit more seasoned? On the contrary, hence this review. This Four Roses Bourbon (formerly known as Yellow Label) is their entry bourbon, it has a mixed mash bill and registers no age statement, the 80 proof will keep your socks firmly on your feet. I picked up a little vanilla on the nose but one thing I noticed is there wasn’t a heavy ethanol presence which so many bottom shelfers have. The body for me was very smooth, sweet vanilla again and candy corn, and was there a little mint hiding in there? This is not complex at all in fact I found the flavor profile to be subtle, almost subdued. I didn’t (and wouldn’t) add water or ice, I’m afraid it would drown this one. I was a little surprised to find some ginger spice on the back end which was nice while it lasted. This is a very congenial easy drinking bourbon, meant for gatherings and friendly conversations, you’re not going to offend anyone with this. It’s a real good bottom shelf bourbon, I had honestly forgotten how smooth it was, no heat or harshness. I didn’t remember until now how much I enjoyed it, this is a solidly classic middle of the road bourbon.