In February 2026, it was announced that one of the world's most beloved Bourbons, Four Roses, was to join the Gallo family, which stands as America's largest wine producer (with brands such as Barefoot, all the way to historic American wineries such as Louis M. Martini and Franciscan, as well as the popular La Marca Prosecco). Up till that point, Kirin had owned the Bourbon producer for over two decades, having itself first acquired Four Roses from Vivendi/Universal and Pernod Ricard in 2002.

Given that lengthy Japanese ownership, it's perhaps surprising that it took as long as it did for Four Roses to get into the Mizunara game, with the Japanese oak having been the one of the most popular cask finishes for the past several years, with its early effect in drawing great attention and premiums.

Nevertheless, it seems like Four Roses has finally done it - in its new Experimental Series, it's set to debut a Four Roses Mizunara Cask Finish for Experiment No. 001.

"The Four Roses Experimental Series honors our time-tested craftsmanship while daring to explore new recipes and finishing technique that will define the next chapter of bourbon. The imagery of our iconic single-story warehouse reflects the quiet, patient influence of our aging warehouses-where time and temperature craft the flavors in this unique experiment."

The new Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Finished In Mizunara Casks is due to be bottled at 52% ABV (104 Proof), and will come in a smaller 375ml format.

Whilst the prospect of a new experimental series sounds interesting and intriguing, particularly given Four Roses' expertise in applying a wide range of permutations of its various in-house proprietary yeasts and mashbills that is touted to be able to create now over 10 recipes with great versatility, it remains to be seen as to whether under new ownership, if this series will continue ahead!

Kanpai!

88 Bamboo Editorial Team