Is Your Bourbon Collection Missing the #1 Bottle of 2020?
Introduction
Bourbon is a classic American spirit that has only grown in popularity in recent years. As more and more people become interested in bourbon, there are new and exciting bottles being released every year. In 2020, one bottle stood above the rest and was named the #1 bottle by Whisky Advocate. This blog post will explore what made this bottle so exceptional and why it should be the next addition to your bourbon collection.
Table of Contents
I. What is Bourbon?
II. The #1 Bottle of 2020
III. How to Find the #1 Bottle
IV. Tasting Notes
V. Bourbon Cocktails with the #1 Bottle
VI. Conclusion
VII. FAQ
I. What is Bourbon?
Before diving into the #1 bottle of 2020, it’s important to understand what bourbon is. Bourbon is a whiskey that is made in the United States, specifically from at least 51% corn and aged in new charred oak barrels. The corn gives bourbon its signature sweetness, while the oak barrels add flavors of vanilla and caramel.
Bourbon must also be made in the United States to be considered true bourbon, but it can be made in any state. However, the most well-known bourbon comes from Kentucky.
II. The #1 Bottle of 2020
Whisky Advocate named the 2020 release of Four Roses Limited Edition Small Batch the #1 bottle of the year. The limited edition release is a blend of four bourbons aged between 12 and 19 years. This combination creates a complex flavor with notes of vanilla, caramel, and spice.
What sets this bottle apart is not only the taste but also the rarity. Only 14,040 bottles were released, so it’s a highly coveted addition to any bourbon collection.
III. How to Find the #1 Bottle
As mentioned, the Four Roses Limited Edition Small Batch is a rare bottle to find. It’s important to first check your local liquor store, as they may have received a few bottles from the release.
If your local store does not have the bottle or has already sold out, turn to online retailers. Websites such as Caskers and Reserve Bar may still have the bottle available for purchase.
It’s important to note that with the rareness of the bottle comes a high price tag. The bottle is typically sold for around $200, but may be higher due to the limited release.
IV. Tasting Notes
Beyond the rarity of the bottle, the taste is what truly sets it apart.
The Four Roses Limited Edition Small Batch has a nose of sweet vanilla and caramel, with underlying notes of baking spice. On the palate, the bourbon is rich and smooth with flavors of honey and cinnamon. The finish is long and warming with a strong aftertaste of oak.
V. Bourbon Cocktails with the #1 Bottle
While the Four Roses Limited Edition Small Batch is delicious neat, it can also be used in a variety of bourbon cocktails. Here are a few cocktail ideas to try with your newest addition:
1. Old Fashioned – In a rocks glass, muddle a sugar cube with a few dashes of bitters. Add a large ice cube and pour in 2 ounces of Four Roses Limited Edition Small Batch. Garnish with an orange twist.
2. Manhattan – In a shaker, combine 2 ounces of Four Roses Limited Edition Small Batch with 1 ounce of sweet vermouth and a dash of bitters. Shake with ice and strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with a cherry.
3. Bourbon Sour – In a shaker, combine 2 ounces of Four Roses Limited Edition Small Batch, 1 ounce of fresh lemon juice, and 1/2 ounce of simple syrup. Shake with ice and strain into a rocks glass filled with ice. Garnish with a lemon twist.
VI. In Conclusion
Overall, the Four Roses Limited Edition Small Batch is a highly sought-after addition to any bourbon collection. Its rareness and complex flavor make it a standout bottle in the bourbon world. While it may come with a high price tag, it’s worth it for the opportunity to taste the #1 whiskey of 2020.
VII. FAQ
Q: What makes bourbon different from other types of whiskey?
A: Bourbon is made in the United States and is required to be aged in new, charred oak barrels. It must also be made from at least 51% corn.
Q: Where can I find the Four Roses Limited Edition Small Batch?
A: Check your local liquor store or online retailers such as Caskers and Reserve Bar. The bottles may have a higher price tag due to the limited release and rarity.
Q: Can the Four Roses Limited Edition Small Batch be used in cocktails?
A: Absolutely! The bourbon can be used in a variety of cocktails, including an Old Fashioned, Manhattan, or Bourbon Sour.
Q: Is the Four Roses Limited Edition Small Batch worth the high price tag?
A: While everyone’s opinion on the value of the bottle may differ, the taste and rarity of the Four Roses Limited Edition Small Batch make it a unique addition to any bourbon collection.
In conclusion, the Four Roses Limited Edition Small Batch is a rare and delicious bottle of bourbon that should be considered for any bourbon enthusiast’s collection. Its complex flavor and high rarity make it a standout in the bourbon world. While it may come with a high price tag, it’s worth it for the opportunity to taste the #1 whiskey of 2020.
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