Four Roses OBSQ Blackwell's Barrel Pick 10 Year Old Cask Strength SB Bourbon Whiskey

The Four Roses Blackwell's Pick OBSQ Cask Strength 10-Year-Old, 8 Month oldSingle Barrel Bourbon is first for us--we have never had an OBSQ recipe. This is a richly expressive, full-bodied whiskey that showcases the depth and nuance achievable in a well-matured single barrel from one of America’s most distinguished distilleries. With powerful spice, layered fruit, and a robust oak presence harmonized at cask strength, it delivers a compelling mix of intensity and balance—ideal for seasoned bourbon enthusiasts seeking a profound sipping experience. The rye stands out.

Origins & Craftsmanship
This expression begins with the renowned OBSQ recipe from Four Roses Distillery in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, USA. The OBSQ mash bill combines a grain bill of 60% corn, 35% rye, and 5% malted barley with the ‘Q’ yeast strain, which is known for producing a distinctive interplay of rich spice and mellow, fruit-accented notes.

Every bottle in this release is drawn from a single barrel that has been aged for 10 years 8 months in new charred American oak. The extended maturation allows deep interaction between spirit and wood—imparting concentrated flavors of caramel, vanilla, and spice junctions with richer tertiary complexity. This particular bottling is cask strength, meaning it is uncut and bottled at the natural barrel proof. The result is a bold, layered Bourbon with amplified aromatics and palate presence.

Barrel picks of this nature are often selected by experienced retailers or independent connoisseurs who seek out barrels with exceptional complexity, balance, and character within Four Roses’ already nuanced flavor palette.

Tasting Profile

Nose:
Inviting and layered, with warm caramel and vanilla aroma up front, followed by rich baking spice—cinnamon, clove, and peppercorn—interwoven with orchard fruit notes of baked apple and a hint of fresh cherry.

Palate:
Full-flavored and robust, delivering waves of dark caramel, toasted oak, and maple syrup sweetness. The higher rye content surfaces as vibrant spice—clove, rye pepper, and light anise—while deeper notes of dried stone fruit and grilled nuts emerge with warmth. The cask strength profile brings a concentrated mouthfeel without undue harshness.

Finish:
Long, warm, and enduring, with lingering spice and oak echoes softened by a final whisper of sweet vanilla and candied fruit. The finish tapers with a satisfying heat that is bold yet well-integrated.

Quick Overview

Serving Suggestions

• Neat: In a Glencairn or tulip glass to focus the rich aromatics and let its complexity unfold at room temperature.

• With a Few Drops of Water: Gently opens concentrated spice and fruit notes while maintaining intensity.

• On the Rocks (Large Cube): Slightly tempers heat and invites layered interaction between spirit and chill.

🍸 Signature Savoring Ideas

Robust Bourbon Sipper
Pour 1.5–2 oz neat in a tulip glass; rest 5 minutes to allow volatile aromatics to settle.
Why it works: Maximizes depth and complexity for contemplative sipping.

Cask Strength Highball

• 1.5 oz Four Roses OBSQ 10 yr

• Chilled soda water
  Build over a large ice sphere.
  Garnish: Lemon twist
  Brightens spice and softens impact without diluting profile.

Food Pairing Suggestions

• Smoked or Grilled Meats: Charred beef short ribs, smoked brisket

• Rich Cheeses: Aged Gouda, blue cheese

• Dark Chocolate Desserts: Molten chocolate cake, espresso ganache
  The interplay of spice and sweet oak mirrors the richness of hearty, savory, and chocolate-accented pairings.