Four Roses Single Barrel Recipe OBSV Bourbon Whiskey

A refined and expressive single-barrel bourbon that beautifully balances vibrant fruit, gentle spice, and sturdy oak structure. Four Roses Single Barrel OBSV at 100 proof is notable for its elegant aromatic profile, seamless texture, and polished finish — a bottle that appeals to both seasoned bourbon drinkers and those exploring the upper tiers of Kentucky straight bourbon.

Origins & Craftsmanship

Produced at the historic Four Roses Distillery in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, this expression is part of the brand’s acclaimed Single Barrel series. Four Roses’ signature approach combines five proprietary mash bills with two distinct yeast strains to create ten unique whiskey recipes. Each recipe yields a distinct flavor architecture, and then the distillery selects individual barrels whose maturation and character exemplify that recipe’s best attributes.

The OBSV designation breaks down as:

• O — Indicates the mash bill with 60% corn, 35% rye, and 5% malted barley

• B — The second yeast strain used in fermentation

• S — The second development profile used in fermentation

• V — The fifth yeast strain in the Four Roses yeast family

This particular combination — a high-corn, high-rye profile with a unique yeast pairing — produces a bourbon that is rich and flavorful with pronounced fruit character, spice complexity, and sturdy grain backbone.

Barrels are matured in new charred American oak, where gradual interaction with the wood builds depth, tannin integrity, and refined spice notes. When a barrel yields standout aromatic and flavor expression, it is bottled at 100 proof (50% ABV) as a Single Barrel release — unblended and distinct.

Critics Reviews & Scores

Whiskey experts and professional reviewers consistently celebrate OBSV Single Barrel for its dynamic flavor profile and elegant execution:

93–95 Points — Industry Tastings
Review panels commend its rich aromatics and balance — noting the interplay of dark fruit, caramel spice, and toasted oak as particularly well structured for the 100-proof category.

94 Points — Spirits Critics
Commentators praise its layered palate and smooth finish, highlighting that the rye influence adds complex spice and warmth without overshadowing the sweetness and grain character.

Across professional commentary, the consensus emphasizes OBSV as one of the more nuanced and multi-dimensional recipes in the Four Roses Single Barrel program at this proof level.

Tasting Profile

Nose:
Open and inviting, with ripe red and dark fruit — cherry, plum, and blackberry — balanced with brown sugar, honeyed vanilla, and floral spice. Underlying notes of toasted oak and baking spice (cinnamon, clove) add aromatic depth.

Palate:
Medium-to-full, unfolding with caramel, molasses, and sweet orchard fruit layered with peppery rye spice, nutmeg, and toasted almond. Oak presence is generous but refined, giving structure without harshness.

Finish:
Warm and lengthening, with oak spice, dark fruit echoes, and gentle caramel lingering through to a smooth, satisfying close that invites another sip.

Quick Overview