When they say “April showers bring May flowers,” no doubt they’re talking about the blanket of red roses draped over the winner of the Kentucky Derby. The first Saturday of May is the running of the first jewel in the Triple Crown of thoroughbred racing (#151), and nothing says Kentucky like bourbon. So just as you contemplate which horse you'll be backing, so too must you choose your whiskey. Four Roses with its spicy rye finishing kick just might be the winner racing down the home stretch. Four Roses is a Kentucky institution, with some accounts placing first production as far back as the 1860s. Their "Small Batch" is made from a blend of 4 different bourbons, each distilled at the Four Roses Distillery in Lawrenceburg, two of which are comprised of a mash of 60% corn, 35% rye and 5% malted barley, while the other two are made up of a mash of 75% corn, 20% rye and 5% malted barley. Married together and aged for a minimum of four years, the final “Small Batch” whiskey has a spicy aroma, with hints of cedar, clove, and cinnamon. Notes of red plums, apples and berries dominate the palate, and are well-balanced by hints of peppercorn and toasted rye. Finish is smooth and soft and ends with a touch of vanilla. Absolutely perfect in a Mint Julep! And a Mint Julep is absolutely perfect with your ridiculously heavy derby hat!