Ballot: Foursquare Exceptional Cask Series Rum
Presenting the 17th release in Foursquare’s Exceptional Cask series, and outstanding example of Barbadian rum. Distilled back in 2009, the rum is made up of column and pot still rums that have been matured for 12 years in bourbon casks. Bottled at a robust 60% abv, free from chill filtration and at natural colour.
The current owners of Foursquare distillery, the Seale family, can trace its roots on the island of Barbados all the way back to the 1650s. Five generations have been making rum since 1820, however, the Foursquare brand wasn't founded until the mid-90s. The family own several rum brands made up of liquid from Foursquare distillery, such as Doorly's and R.L Seales, though it's namesake is their most prestigious. The Exceptional Cask Series, in particular, is revered by rum drinkers around the world, and has been known to sell out in minutes. It's even been termed 'the Pappy Van Winkle of rum' by some.
This expression offers a complex nose of Dried apricots, sultanas, and zesty lemon peel. Tamarind syrup, fudge, and a hint of cloves and caraway seeds. Crispy bacon, cedarwood, toasted bread, and a hint of eucalyptus. The palate is an oily mouthful of rich, dried summer fruits, with roasted pineapple, caramel, a touch of fresh ginger, honey, and dried coconut. Gentle hints of burnt rubber shine through. The finish is layered and lingering, showcasing notes of cinnamon, honeyed-ginger and bitter cacao.
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