Four Roses 2026 Limited Edition Small Batch Bourbon is the 19th edition of one of Kentucky bourbon's most anticipated annual releases, bringing together four exceptionally mature batches aged from 14 to 23 years.
Master Distiller Brent Elliott selected a 14-year-old OBSK, 14-year-old OESK, 15-year-old OESV and rare 23-year-old OESK to create a complex barrel-strength expression that highlights the blending philosophy at the heart of Four Roses. The whiskey is bottled non-chill filtered, preserving its natural texture, mature oak character and layered flavor.
The profile opens with inviting apricot and elegant oak, followed by layers of baking spice, honey and delicate wood tones. The finish develops into lingering fruit with vanilla and caramel, balancing decades of barrel maturation against Four Roses' characteristic fruit and mellow spice.
What makes this release especially compelling is the inclusion of bourbon aged as long as 23 years, carefully blended rather than presented simply for age. The mature components add depth and oak complexity, while the younger 14- and 15-year batches maintain brightness, spice and fruit.
Approximately 16,800 bottles are planned for the 2026 release, with availability beginning in October at Four Roses visitor centers and select retailers nationwide. Its limited production, mature age profile and annual-series collectibility make the 2026 edition especially desirable for Four Roses collectors, barrel-strength bourbon enthusiasts and rare Kentucky whiskey buyers.
Key Features
- 2026 Four Roses Limited Edition Small Batch
- 19th annual edition
- Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
- Barrel strength
- 109.2 proof / 54.6% ABV
- Non-chill filtered
- Four batches aged 14 to 23 years
- 14-Year OBSK
- 14-Year OESK
- 15-Year OESV
- 23-Year OESK
- Crafted by Master Distiller Brent Elliott
- Approximately 16,800 bottles
- Apricot, honey, baking spice, vanilla and caramel profile
- Highly collectible annual Four Roses release
Tasting Notes
Nose: Apricot and light, elegant oak with mature bourbon depth.
Palate: Layered baking spice, honey and delicate wood tones, balancing sweetness with mature oak and Four Roses' signature mellow spice.
Finish: Long and mouth-coating with lingering fruit, vanilla and caramel.
How to Enjoy
Enjoy Four Roses 2026 Limited Edition Small Batch neat in a Glencairn or tulip-shaped whiskey glass. Give the whiskey several minutes in the glass to allow the mature oak, apricot, honey and spice to develop.
As a high proof, a few drops of water can reveal additional fruit, vanilla and caramel while softening some of the mature oak intensity. A large cube is also suitable for a slower, evolving pour.
Because of its rarity and mature component whiskies, this release is best appreciated as a premium sipping bourbon rather than primarily used for cocktails.
FAQ
What is Four Roses 2026 Limited Edition Small Batch?
It is Four Roses' 19th annual Limited Edition Small Batch Bourbon, created by blending four mature bourbon batches from three of the distillery's ten recipes.
How old is the whiskey?
The four components are aged 14, 14, 15 and 23 years.
Which Four Roses recipes are included?
The blend contains 14-year OBSK, 14-year OESK, 15-year OESV and 23-year OESK.
Is it barrel strength?
Yes. Four Roses officially identifies the 2026 Limited Edition Small Batch as barrel strength.
Is it non-chill filtered?
Yes. The 2026 release is non-chill filtered.
What does it taste like?
Four Roses describes apricot, elegant oak, baking spice, honey, delicate wood, fruit, vanilla and caramel.
How limited is the 2026 release?
Approximately 16,800 bottles are planned.
