A New Chapter for Four Roses’ Single Barrel Collection
Four Roses whiskey has long been admired for its unique approach: ten distinct bourbon recipes produced from two mash bills and five yeast strains. With roots reaching back to 1888 and a modern U.S. resurgence in the early 2000s, the distillery has recently stepped into a brighter spotlight, especially after its acquisition by wine giant Gallo. Building on growing interest, Four Roses is expanding its Single Barrel Collection, a line designed to give drinkers clear insight into individual recipes at a consistent 100 proof. Beginning in May 2026, three new codes—OESQ, OESF, and OBSK—join the nationwide rotation, following the 2025 debut of OBSF, OESK, and OESO. Each release is between seven and nine years old and priced at USD 49.99 (approx. RM230) per bottle, encouraging side‑by‑side comparison and deeper whiskey tasting notes exploration.
Decoding the Four Roses Recipe System
Understanding the Single Barrel Collection starts with Four Roses’ four-letter recipe codes. Every recipe begins with “O,” a nod to the distillery’s Old Prentice heritage, followed by a second letter that identifies the mash bill. “E” denotes a high-corn recipe at 75% corn, 20% rye, and 5% malted barley, delivering a softer, sweeter base. “B” signifies a spicier mash bill composed of 60% corn, 35% rye, and 5% malted barley, which naturally brings more rye-driven spice and structure to the glass. The third letter is always “S,” indicating straight bourbon, while the fourth letter designates the specific yeast strain, which helps define individual whiskey tasting notes across the range. This coding system makes the Single Barrel Collection an educational tool as much as a pleasure to drink, allowing enthusiasts to track how mash bill and yeast shape flavor.
OESQ and OESF: High-Corn Elegance with Distinct Yeast Signatures
OESQ and OESF share the high-corn “E” mash bill, so both start from a foundation that leans toward sweetness and approachability, but their yeast strains push the profiles in different directions. OESQ, with its higher corn content and a fruit-driven yeast, is likely to lean into notes of ripe stone fruit, red berries, and soft vanilla, balanced by gentle baking spice from the rye component. Think rounded, dessert-friendly bourbon that still carries enough oak and structure to feel serious. OESF, by contrast, typically emphasizes herbal, floral, and subtly earthy tones. Expect bright aromatics, hints of mint or dried herbs, and a drier, more linear palate that still benefits from the mash bill’s underlying sweetness. Tasting them side by side is an excellent way to isolate the influence of yeast on otherwise similar bourbon frameworks.
OBSK: Bold Rye Spice and Classic Bourbon Depth
OBSK showcases the “B” mash bill, where 35% rye adds a firm, spicy backbone to Four Roses whiskey. In this recipe, the K yeast strain tends to accentuate warm spice and robust, traditional bourbon character. The result is a Single Barrel Collection expression that may present aromas of caramelized sugar, toasted oak, and dark baking spices such as cinnamon and clove, wrapped around a core of dried fruit and citrus peel. On the palate, expect more intensity and structure than the “E” recipes, with peppery rye character and a lingering, dry finish that makes this bottling particularly satisfying for drinkers who prefer bolder profiles. At 100 proof, OBSK should strike a balance between concentration and drinkability, making it a versatile choice for neat pours, a splash of water, or elevated whiskey cocktails.
Pairing Ideas and Cocktail Recipes for the New Collection
The diversity within the Single Barrel Collection invites thoughtful food pairings and cocktail recipes tailored to each recipe’s strengths. OESQ’s fruit-forward, softer profile pairs beautifully with glazed pork chops, roasted poultry, or desserts like peach cobbler and vanilla panna cotta. Try it in a Whiskey Sour, where its bright fruit notes complement fresh lemon juice and simple syrup. OESF’s herbal and floral character suits grilled vegetables, herbed lamb, or goat cheese crostini; it shines in a highball with quality soda water and a lemon twist. OBSK’s spicy intensity stands up to smoked brisket, charred steaks, or rich dark chocolate. Use it in a classic Old Fashioned or Boulevardier, where its rye spice cuts through sweetness and vermouth richness. Exploring these matchups adds another layer of enjoyment to the Four Roses whiskey experience.