Four Roses 130th Anniversary 2018 Limited Edition Small Batch

Four Roses Whiskey Price –  130th Anniversary 2018 Limited Edition Small Batch: A Masterpiece of Bourbon Craftsmanship

At Rare Finds Liquor Store, we live for those rare moments when a distillery transcends its own legacy to create something truly extraordinary. In the world of rare bourbon, the annual Limited Edition releases from the Four Roses Distillery are calendar events for collectors. Among these, the Four Roses 130th Anniversary 2018 Limited Edition Small Batch stands tall—a modern legend that not only honored a monumental anniversary but also set a new benchmark for what a small batch bourbon can achieve.

Hailed by critics as one of the finest American whiskeys of the decade, this bottle represents the pinnacle of blending artistry under Master Distiller Brent Elliott. For those seeking a definitive Four Roses bourbon experience, the 2018 release is a non-negotiable milestone. This definitive guide will explore the creation of this iconic whiskey, provide an in-depth Four Roses bourbon review, decipher the secrets behind its perfect balance, and explain why it remains a crown jewel for any serious collection.

A New Era of Excellence: The Significance of the 130th Anniversary

The year 2018 marked 130 years since the founding of the Four Roses brand, but it also symbolized a successful passing of the torch. This was the second major anniversary release under Master Distiller Brent Elliott, who took the helm from the legendary Jim Rutledge in 2015. The pressure was immense to follow the iconic 125th Anniversary release, but Elliott proved unequivocally that the legacy of excellence was in masterful hands.

This release was a statement. It demonstrated that the Four Roses Distillery was not resting on its laurels but was pushing forward, exploring the depths of its ten-recipe system with confidence and innovation. The 130th Anniversary was a celebration of both 13 decades of history and a bright, dynamic future for one of the most revered bourbon whiskey brands in the world. It was a thank you to the fans and a bold declaration that the golden age of Four Roses whiskey was continuing.

The Alchemist’s Canvas: Deconstructing the Historic Blend

The unparalleled flexibility of the Four Roses small batch barrel strength ten-recipe system is what allows for such historic creations. The 2018 Limited Edition is not a single barrel bourbon but a symphonic blend of four exceptional and strategically selected recipes, each chosen by Brent Elliott to contribute a specific voice to the final harmony.

This release was a meticulous pursuit of the best barrel bourbon batch, combining:

• 14-Year-Old OBSV: Sourced from the high-rye (35%) mash bill with the delicate fruit (V) yeast. This component provided a backbone of mature oak, rich tannins, and a core of dark, stewed fruit complexity.

• 12-Year-Old OESV: From the low-rye (20%) mash bill with the delicate fruit (V) yeast. This offered a softer, more floral and sweet fruit counterpoint to the older OBSV, enhancing the bouquet and approachability.

• 11-Year-Old OBSF: From the high-rye mash bill with the herbal (F) yeast. This was the wildcard, introducing unique layers of mint, anise, and herbal complexity that elevate the blend beyond a standard fruity/spicy profile.

• 10-Year-Old OESK: From the low-rye mash bill with the slight spice (K) yeast. This recipe tied everything together, providing a vibrant, fruity spice and a robust structure that binds the older and more eccentric components.

Bottled at a robust 54.2% ABV (108.4 proof), this straight bourbon whiskey has the strength to carry its immense flavor profile without sacrificing balance.

Tasting Perfection: A Sensory four roses bourbon review​ of the 2018 Limited Edition

Any Four Roses whiskey review of this caliber must be approached with the reverence it deserves. The liquid presents a deep, radiant amber with glints of polished copper.

• Nose: The aroma is an incredibly complex and evolving bouquet. It opens with an immediate wave of rich crème brûlée, ripe plum, and dark honey. As it rests in the glass, the floral and herbal notes emerge—rose petal, fresh mint, and a touch of anise from the OBSF recipe. Beneath it all lies a foundation of seasoned oak and baking spices. The proof is perceptible but perfectly integrated, promising depth without aggression.

• Palate: The first sip is a revelation in texture and layered flavor. The mouthfeel is rich and coating, delivering a cascade of flavors that unfold in waves. Initial notes of caramel apple, maraschino cherry, and vanilla bean are quickly joined by a sophisticated spice medley of cinnamon and nutmeg. The herbal character then makes a stunning appearance, with notes of spearmint and dark chocolate-covered cherries adding a unique and captivating dimension. The combination of high and low-rye recipes creates a perfect equilibrium between sweet fruit and peppery spice, a hallmark of a world-class straight Kentucky bourbon whiskey.

• Finish: The finish is exceptionally long, warm, and transformative. The fruity and herbal sweetness slowly recedes, leaving behind a lingering, dry elegance characterized by oak tannins, a hint of dark chocolate, and a final, refreshing whisper of mint. It is a finish that seems to last for minutes, encouraging quiet contemplation and solidifying its status as a once-in-a-generation bourbon.

This is a contemplative spirit, designed to be savored neat. A few drops of water can further unlock its floral and herbal complexities, but it is a profoundly complete experience straight from the bottle.

The Collector’s Benchmark: The Rarity of the 2018 Release

Finding a Bourbon whiskey four roses​ 130th Anniversary 2018 Limited Edition for sale today is a significant challenge, a testament to its instant-classic status. Its position as a rare bourbon is unshakable due to several key factors:

1. Critical Acclaim and Awards: Upon release, it was met with a torrent of perfect scores and “Whiskey of the Year” accolades from major publications. This immediate and universal praise created a frenzy of demand that the finite supply could never hope to meet.

2. Limited Production Run: As a commemorative anniversary edition, it was produced in a single, non-replicable batch. Once the allocated bottles were sold through select retailers, they vanished from the primary market.

3. Historical Significance: It represents a key milestone for the distillery and a career-defining achievement for Master Distiller Brent Elliott. This narrative adds immense collectible value beyond the liquid itself.

4. Appreciating Asset: Due to its limited nature, perfect scores, and legendary reputation, this bottle has become a blue-chip asset in the secondary market. Its value has consistently appreciated, making it both an unparalleled tasting experience and a sound investment.

This is the precise niche Rare Finds Liquor Store is designed to fill. We operate as curators and hunters, leveraging our extensive network to source pristine, authentic bottles of historic releases like this for a discerning clientele that understands true value.

Investing in a Legacy: Understanding the Four Roses 130th Anniversary Price

Discussing the Four Roses bourbon price for this specific bottle requires a shift from standard retail thinking. Its MSRP is a relic of the past; its current value is dictated by the market forces of extreme rarity, critical acclaim, and iconic status.

When you consider the Four Roses whiskey price for the 2018 Limited Edition, you are investing in a piece of modern bourbon history. You are acquiring a bottle that represents the peak of a master distiller’s craft, a celebrated milestone for a legendary brand, and an unforgettable sensory experience that few will ever have the privilege to taste. For the serious collector, the value is justified by its provenance, its perfect critical reception, and its place in the pantheon of all-time great American whiskey Kentucky releases.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How does the 130th Anniversary compare to the legendary 125th Anniversary release?
A: This is a classic debate among enthusiasts. The 125th is revered for its incredible depth and older age statements. The 130th Anniversary is often praised for its superior balance, unique herbal complexity (from the OBSF recipe), and more vibrant, dynamic profile. Both are flawless masterpieces, but the 130th is seen as a more complex and innovative blend, cementing Brent Elliott’s legacy alongside Jim Rutledge’s.

Q2: Is this bourbon a single barrel or a small batch?
A: The Four Roses 130th Anniversary 2018 is a small batch bourbon. This means it is a masterful blend of a select number of exceptional barrels (in this case, four different recipes) to create a specific, complex flavor profile that a single barrel bourbon could not achieve on its own. This blending art is what allows for its unparalleled depth and balance.

Q3: I’ve heard about a “super premium” Bourbon whiskey four roses​ from Japan. How does this compare?
A: The Japan-market Four Roses Super Premium Bourbon is an excellent and rare export. However, the 130th Anniversary Limited Edition exists in a completely different tier. As a critically lauded, historic commemorative release with a unique recipe blend and higher proof, it is universally considered more complex, desirable, and valuable among global collectors than the standard Super Premium export.

Q4: How can I possibly find this specific 2018 bottle for sale?
A: Finding this specific vintage is the hallmark of a specialized hunt. General searches for “bourbon for sale near me” will not be successful. Your only reliable path is through premium retailers like Rare Finds Liquor Store that specialize in rare bourbon and vintage spirits. We are a trusted destination for collectors looking to buy bourbon whiskey online, providing access to legendary bottles from the past.

Q5: What does “Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey” legally guarantee?
A: This designation is your assurance of quality and authenticity. It means the spirit is:

• Bourbon: Made from a grain mix of at least 51% corn.

• Straight: Aged for a minimum of two years in new, charred oak barrels.

• Kentucky: Distilled and aged in the state of Kentucky.
  The Four Roses 130th Anniversary not only meets these standards but exemplifies the heights of quality this classification can achieve.

Q6: Why should I trust Rare Finds Liquor Store to purchase such a valuable bottle online?
A: Rare Finds Liquor Store is built on a foundation of expertise, authenticity, and discretion. We are recognized as one of the best place(s) to buy bourbon online for serious collectors. We guarantee the provenance and condition of every bottle, providing detailed information and secure, fully insured shipping. We make acquiring a landmark bottle like the Four Roses 130th Anniversary a secure and seamless experience.

Conclusion: The Standard-Bearer for a Generation

The Four Roses 130th Anniversary 2018 Limited Edition Small Batch is more than a spirit; it is a standard-bearer. It captures a distillery at the peak of its powers, confidently blending history with innovation. It is a reference point that continues to define the potential of small batch bourbon.

While the opportunity to acquire a bottle is a rare privilege, its legacy endures, influencing the expectations of every limited release that has followed. It is a testament to the fact that with great craftsmanship, even the highest expectations can not only be met but exceeded.

At Rare Finds Liquor Store, we are your dedicated connection to these liquid legends. We pride ourselves on bringing these monumental finds to a community that appreciates their history, their craft, and their unparalleled taste. Explore our curated collection and let us help you secure a rare find that is not just a bottle for your shelf, but a story for your lifetime.