Four Roses Secretariat Triple Crown 40th Anniversary Limited Edition Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

1973 was the year Big Red broke every heart and stopwatch in America. To mark the 40th anniversary of that impossible 31-length victory at the Belmont, Four Roses released this limited edition Single Barrel in 2013. It is a liquid monument to the greatest thoroughbred to ever step onto the dirt.

While Four Roses has always been the unofficial bourbon of the track, this bottle is special. Only about 3,500 of these were produced, featuring the iconic blue-and-white label. Inside, you aren't just getting standard juice; you are getting a hand-selected barrel chosen by Master Distiller Jim Rutledge during the height of his tenure.

It captures the power and grace of the horse itself. The bourbon is vibrant, floral, and packed with the signature high-rye kick that defines the Lawrenceburg distillery. This is a "dusty" bottle now, a survivor from a decade ago that has become a centerpiece for both racing fans and whiskey historians. If you missed your ticket to the winner's circle in 2013, here is your second chance.

Nose: A bouquet of fresh red berries and pear rises from the glass, quickly grounded by distinct notes of rye spice, nutmeg, and a faint, floral hint of rose petal.

Palate: The texture is crisp and lively, delivering a sophisticated mix of ripe plums and honey, balanced by a sharp, refreshing note of mint and cinnamon.

Finish: Long and clean, the sweetness fades into trailing flavors of vanilla bean, soft leather, and a final, zesty touch of citrus peel.

This bottle belongs at a Derby party, even if it’s just a party of one. Serve it alongside Kentucky country ham on biscuits; the salty, cured meat will highlight the fruit notes in the bourbon. For a sweet contrast, a slice of Derby Pie (chocolate and walnut tart) is non-negotiable, as the nuts and chocolate lock perfectly with the whiskey’s vanilla backbone. If you are keeping it simple, a Benedictine spread on white bread offers the cool, cucumber-based crunch needed to refresh the palate between sips.