After Master Distiller Jim Rutledge hand-selected four spirits to blend in Four Roses Limited Edition Small Batch Bourbon in 2015, he retired after nearly fifty years in the spirits industry. So you could really look at this barrel strength full-bodied beauty as Rutledge’s piece de resistance. Each of the lovingly selected bourbons is aged from 11 to 16 years, and the resulting blend is non-chill filtered to retain its pleasing viscosity and rich golden honey hue. The scent is sort of like strolling down a small town street lined in cherry blossoms and magnolia while wearing a softly worn leather jacket and nibbling on a slice of whole grain toast slathered in butter. If that sounds appealing try a slow sip, and let it linger on the tongue for a moment. Apricot juices drip down honeycomb and orange rind, with spices like nutmeg, cloves, and cinnamon adding depth and dimension. With a finish as sweet and creamy as a Tahitian vanilla creme brulee, you’ll want to pick up several of the limited number of released bottles to savor for years to come. Sip whilst meandering cherry tree-lined avenues clad in leather or even at your own kitchen table in your bathrobe. You decide.