Four Roses has risen from relative obscurity in the US a mere decade ago to become one of the most admired bourbon distilleries in the land, thanks in large part to longtime master distiller Jim Rutledge. The brand has a rich history, dating back to 1888. They were one of the most popular bourbons in the US post-Prohibition, but Seagram’s bought the brand in the 1940′s and soon shifted its focus to selling in Europe and Asia. You couldn’t even find Four Roses here in the States for over 40 years. Four Roses ownership changed hands again in 2002, and (thankfully) soon arrived back on US shelves.

While Four Roses may not have the broad name recognition of a Maker’s Mark or Jack Daniels, nor the raving mad fanaticism that Pappy Van Winkle earns, they have quietly won acclaim from those who know their bourbon. Four Roses has been named American Whisky Distiller of the year three years running now by Whisky Magazine, and they consistently earn all kinds of raves for their line of bourbon.

The three mainstay products from Four Roses are their base “Yellow Label,” the “Small Batch,” and a Single Barrel version. If you’re lucky, you might also find one of their limited edition small batch and single barrel releases, each of which comes out once a year. Whisky Advocate magazine just picked the Four Roses 2013 Limited Edition Small Batch ($85) as their highest rated bourbon for this year’s buying guide.

Here’s a handy guide to choosing among the three main Four Roses bottlings, from the obvious distinctions in proof and price, to a few tasting notes, to some highly debatable comparisons against other well known trios. Were you a Rodman fan when the Bulls were collecting rings? Go with the Single Barrel. Is Carreras your favorite of the Three Tenors? Go with the Yellow Label. Clerks over Mallrats? Small Batch. You’re welcome.

Got your own comparison for these three? Let us know in the comments below.

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* Thirsty South Rating Scale:

Wow – among the very best: knock-your-socks-off, profound, complex liquid gold!
Excellent – exceptional in quality and character, worth seeking out, highly recommended
Good Stuff – solid expression of its type/varietal, enjoyable and recommended
Fair – fairly standard or exhibiting obvious though minor flaws
Avoid – move away folks, nothing to see here, a train wreck

Full Disclosure: Tasting samples provided by Four Roses.