Overproof Rum
209 products
- GUYANA$350.00$350.00Bottle$4,200.00DozenABV: 63%Rum purists will be pleased to get their hands on a trio of limited edition rums from El Dorado's Rare Collection. Launched in 2016, each one features a rum from one of three renowned Guyanese stills. Demerara distillers actually operate nine different stills, capable of producing a range of rum styles. Of significance are the three heritage Wooden stills in the operation, relocated from their original estates: Enmore, with its wooden continuous Coffey Still. Port Mourant, with its wooden Double Pot Still and Versailles with its wooden single pot still. On the surface, the Rare Collection mirrors El Dorado’s 12, 15 and 21 year old rums, though the packaging is more conservative with low key colours and an embossed ship on the shoulder of the bottle. The big difference is that these are all-natural, single still, cask strength, unblended and non-chill filtered rums. They're also limited to 3,000 bottles worldwide. The Versailles wooden pot still is the only one of its kind operational in the world. This edition was distilled in 2002 and matured in x Bourbon barrels. Bottled in 2015 at 63% Alc./Vol.
Extremely limited stocks. Other reviews... The newish OB! Entirely aged in Guyana, where they have very greedy angels. The volumes go down fast, while the strengths remain high or even go up. Colour: gold. Nose: it seems that it’s a little simpler than the Mezan, but that’s probably the super-high strength. What I seem to find in the background is a bag of vegetables and herbs, such as capers (which is a flower, isn’t it?), and plenty of wood varnish, with an acetone-y side. Let’s dig deeper… With water: as expected, this is more wood-driven than the Ultra-clean Mezan, with a BTAC side (yup) and plenty of tarmac, tarry wood (restored old boat, teak oil), and just ideas of ‘brand new sneakers’. Mouth (neat): huge. Distilled vin jaune, mint essence, artichoke, concentrated walnut oil… All that is spectacular and, I have to say, wonderful. Huge distillate. With water: very extremely good. Please call the anti-rumporn brigade! Finish: very long, big and yet elegant and ‘well-chiselled’, always with a lot of tar (and other tar-like elements, pitch and such). Droplets of lemon in the aftertaste. Comments: like, I mean love it much more than the Port Mourant in the same series. Ça c’est un alcool, monseigneur, as they would have said at Versailles (the castle).
90 points. -Serge Valentin, www.whisky-fum.com - GUYANA$399.00$399.00Bottle$4,788.00DozenABV: 56.5%Rum purists will be pleased to get their hands on a trio of limited edition rums from El Dorado's Rare Collection. Launched in 2016, each one features a rum from one of three renowned Guyanese stills. Demerara distillers actually operate nine different stills, capable of producing a range of rum styles. Of significance are the three heritage Wooden stills in the operation, relocated from their original estates: Enmore, with its wooden continuous Coffey Still. Port Mourant, with its wooden Double Pot Still and Versailles with its wooden single pot still. On the surface, the Rare Collection mirrors El Dorado’s 12, 15 and 21 year old rums, though the packaging is more conservative with low key colours and an embossed ship on the shoulder of the bottle. The big difference is that these are all-natural, single still, cask strength, unblended and non-chill filtered rums. They're also limited to 3,000 bottles worldwide. Originally owned by Edward Henry Potter, "EHP" was the mark used to identify rums from a distillery near the Enmore Sugar Factory. When the operation closed in 1993, the production equipment was moved to the Diamond Distillery. This edition was distilled in the original two column wooden continuous Coffey still and aged in x-Bourbon barrels. Bottled 2015. 56.5% Alc./Vol. Extremely limited stocks. Other reviews... The problem is that DDL have been too optimistic with their prices, as it seems. I had thought these new OBs would sell like Mars bars in Scotland, but the hefty prices (a disease called scotchitus severis) seem to have discouraged most rum lovers, and the bottles remain available from just everywhere on this planet. After all, they’re afraid of nothing, them who just launched a $500,000 50 yo rum. Now that's Guyanan dollars, and that's a 50 yo look-alike - you know, nasty 'anniversary' bottlings that suggest a 'faked' age and all that, some Scots do it as well. Colour: deep gold. Nose: much gentler, easier, without the phenolic base, and with more ‘average’ rum aromas, such as tropical fruits, papayas, pineapples… It’s really lovely, and at times you’re thinking about rhum agricole from Martinique, but there’s also a little too much sweet oak, in the modern Scotch style. Let’s see… With water: wood spices, unsweetened tea, vanilla… Mouth (neat): a bourbon of rum, clearly. Or a light spirit in some very active American oak. Vanilla, maple syrup, orange liqueur, a touch of ginger liqueur… With water: once again we’re between rum and bourbon. It’s fine, and I do enjoy these notes of artisan maple syrup, it’s just that the Versailles kills it. Finish: medium, sweet, bourbony. Vanilla and pineapples. Comments: don’t get me wrong, it’s excellent rum, but the traditional Demeraraness (excuse me?) is a little absent. A strong light rum. 81 points
Serge Valentin, www.whisky-fun.com - GUYANA$99.99$99.99Bottle$1,199.88DozenABV: 75.5%
The El Dorado distillery has assured supplies of its basic raw material, molasses, from locally-grown sugar-cane. The company makes the full gamut of styles, including this 151 proof rum. Use with caution and keep away from open flames. It may light up your cocktails, literally. Include in Mai Tais, Rum Runners and punches.
Tasting note: Crystal clear with a silvery blush. Offers up notes of icing sugar, fairy floss and vanilla bean. A sweet entry belies the spiritous explosion, repeating the aromas with lip numbing intensity. At this ultra high ABV there’s a prickly, hot mouthfeel, the finish is bittersweet, more texture than flavour, and fairly short. Add to the punch bowl. 75.5% Alc./Vol. - BARBADOS$250.00$250.00Bottle$3,000.00DozenABV: 61%
"No recent release gets close to this." - rumrevalations.com
Equidem (meaning “Truly” or "indeed") is the twenty-seventh release in the acclaimed Exceptional Cask Selection (ECS) series from Foursquare. Distilled via a copper double-retort pot still and a continuous twin column Coffey still, it saw a double maturation that includes five years in ex-Bourbon barrels and nine years in ex-Black Muscat fortified wine casks, making for one of the darkest Foursquare rums we’ve ever seen. Master Distiller and Blender, Richard Seale explains "I was looking for some Spanish Moscatel casks, a popular fortified wine that is made from one of the many types of muscat grapes. These are mostly white grapes. Only a few producers work with black Muscat grapes and make fortified wine from them, so it’s very rare. I was offered these casks by a French producer. It’s a very robust dark wine. Not commonly used as it’s tricky to get it right, thanks to the wine being very powerful and tannin-rich”. Considered a standout in the ECS series, some tasters have summed up Equidem as one of the most exciting Exceptional Casks to date. Entirely tropical aged, it arrives bottled at 61% ABV, non-chill filtered and with no sugar or additives.
Other reviews... Foursquare Equidem nods towards some of the Velier Foursquare releases – Tryptych in terms of oak/woodiness and has a much thicker and richer mouthfeel than some of the “lighter” earlier ECS releases such as Premise and Détente. Finish wise Foursquare Equidem is long – very long in fact. It’s full of the rich dark fruits and a touch of peppery spice. This gives way to a slow burn of oak and spices. The red wine influence on this one is quite large. Fortunately it doesn’t become too tannic or bitter. So even if you aren’t a Red Wine fan don’t let this put you off. This truly is a “sipping rum” you really should take your time with this and appreciate it. It’s not a rum that I would look to mix (use Doorly’s XO if you want a more “Premium” mixer). I feel that this release is offering something a little different to the previous ECS releases. Highly recommended. 5 stars - thefatrumpirate.com
...I was so impressed by this rum that I pulled Foursquare Criterion, Triptych and Absolutio out of my cabinet to compare. Surely Equidem can’t be as good as these three. What a great exercise this was! After sipping Criterion and going back to Equidem, I got that cane juice feel again. Equidem is more complex, more powerful and has a longer finish. However, Criterion is so brilliant in its simplicity. Perfect balance, wonderful flavour profile. I instantly said OMG! when I took the first sip. So sweet and thick…..it’s rum heaven. That age and abv seem to be ideal. I need to increase its score. Equidem is different, but on the same enjoyment level for me. It’s insane. Like sucking on sweet wood that’s been marinating with leather, tobacco and a drop of cane juice. Impossible of course, but I hope you know what I mean. No recent release gets close to this. - rumrevelations.com
Wow, wow. Insanely complex, powerful Foursquare. The finish in the Black Muscat barrel fits like a glove on the Foursquare eye. This combination is really amazing. I'm not really a sweet person, but the sweetness of a summer jam is just perfect here. This creamy complexity is second to none. For me, this is the best Foursquare I've had in a glass so far, a touch ahead of the Absolutio. Alcohol perfectly integrated. Stands out from the standard Foursquare mash. Doesn't have to hide behind the Velier bottlings. - rum-x.com
- Nicks Import
- Limit One per customer
Foursquare Equipoise Exceptional Cask Selection Mark XXV 14 Year Old Full Proof Single Blended Rum (750ml)BARBADOS$250.00$250.00Bottle$3,000.00DozenABV: 61%Rated 99 points and awarded a trophy at the International Wine & Spirits Competition 2024
Described as “the world’s best rum distillery”, Foursquare have been crowned five-time consecutive winners of the International Spirits Challenge’s “Rum Producer of the Year”. This family-run distillery is responsible for the Doorly’s and R.L. Seale’s rums, plus countless collaborations with the likes of Luca Gargano’s, Velier. Whisky lovers have drawn comparisons with Bruichladdich for their cult following, provenance and cask management skills.
'Equipoise' is the 25th release in Foursquare's acclaimed Exceptional Cask Selection series. It marks the first time ex-Calvados casks have been introduced as part of the maturation. Married together with liquid aged in x Bourbon barrels, this molasses based, pot and column still blend lands at 61% ABV, without chill filtration, free from sweeteners and other adjuncts. Having absolutely wowed the judges at the 2024 International Wine & Spirits Competition (review below), it will likely be remembered as one of the most coveted Foursquares since the Exceptional Cask Series began.
Other reviews... Enticing aromas of leather and olive oil greet the senses, leading to a tantalizing blend of citrus peel, cinnamon, oak, dark chocolate, and nutmeg. Plummy, spiced fruit dances on the palate, upon a soft, sweet mouthfeel. A dry, tangy finish lingers, revealing layers of caramel, banana bread, and tobacco. Luxurious and long-lasting. 99 points - International Wine & Spirits Competition 2024
...I was expecting the Mark XXV to be more fruity thanks to its Calvados maturation, but it’s actually quite spicy with clove and vanilla flavours at its forefront. It needs some time in the glass in order to develop some more fruity notes since the oak is pretty overpowering at the beginning. This is a really fantastic rum, but it requires patience or a couple of drops of water to reach its full potential. 90 points - therumbarrel.co.uk
- Limit One per customer
Foursquare Covenant Exceptional Cask Selection Mark XXIII 18 Year Old Full Proof Single Blended Rum (700ml)BARBADOS$199.99$199.99Bottle$2,399.88DozenABV: 58%Foursquare's oldest distillery released bottling to date.
This very old blend of traditional column and pot still rums, tropically aged for a whopping 18 years exclusively in American oak ex-Bourbon casks represents the 23rd release (Mark XXIII) for the Exceptional Cask Selection series and is the oldest distillery released bottling on record. Based on rums distilled in 2004 and 2005, a decade in cask led to it being vatted, then after a considered reduction in alcoholic strength, it was re-casked for a further eight years before bottling at 58% ABV without added colour or chill filtration. Very limited stocks.
- Limit One per customer
Foursquare Touchstone Exceptional Cask Selection Mark XXII 14 Year Old Full Proof Single Blended Rum (700ml)BARBADOS$219.99$219.99Bottle$2,639.88DozenABV: 61%"...one of my favourite self-blends from Foursquare so far." - whiskyfun.com
A collaborative project, 'Touchstone' represents the 22nd release in the Exceptional Cask Series, created from a marriage of rums double-aged in ex-Bourbon and ex-Cognac casks for a total of 14 years. It consists of two components. In January 2019 Foursquare acquired ten casks from Camus. The famous cognac producer shipped them to the Caribbean in order to “explore the possibilities of maturing Cognac on the ocean and under the tropics”. A year later in early 2020, the casks were emptied and and the cognac was shipped back to France. The vessels were filled with a 2008 vintage pot and column still blend and 12 year old ex-bourbon cask rum, then aged for almost three years before being blended with another 14 year old rum. This became the first component of Touchstone.
The second component was a pot and column still blend aged for 5 years in ex-Bourbon casks and 9 years in ex-Cognac casks. If it all sounds a bit convoluted, this is basically a blend of double matured blends - or to put it another way - a Single Blended Rum (rum from a Single Distillery with Pot and Column elements) employing both light and heavy marques. Richard Seale of Foursquare is well known for implementing complicated methods in order to achieve different combinations and flavour profiles. As usual the distillation, maturation and bottling has all been performed on site at Foursquare Distillery, Barbados, with the result landing at a potent 61% ABV, absent of any adulteration or chill filtering. It's another one of a kind, limited release showcasing a truly unique approach to both rum blending and tropical ageing.
Other reviews... This is a complex blend of 12 yo Foursquare finished for 2 further years in Camus cognac plus 5 yo Foursquare further matured for 9 years in cognac as well. We continue to follow the rules of Scotch; less than three years is a finishing, beyond that, it's maturation. Yep. Colour: amber. Nose: I don't think Foursquare and good cognacs are very far apart from each other stylistically, which just means that the double maturation/finishing doesn't exactly feel as such, I mean as some flavouring. Everything seems to have merged into some spicy herbs and even flowers dipped into liquid caramel and fudge, nougat, pecans and vanilla. Some bourbons are close too, but that may be those 61% vol. Light varnish. With water: earths and tobaccos popping out, a little incense, cedarwood, touch of compost... Mouth (neat): admirably strong. Lovely citrusy liquorice and a little acetone, probably the high strength at play once more. With water: bingo, we tamed it. Citrus and sugarcane, tobacco, cardamom, black nougat, perhaps vine peaches from the cognac, geranium jelly, edible flowers, borage, wee pansies… Finish: long, a little more on burnt caramel and coffee. I hope no one will take umbrage if I mention Starbucks' Frappuccino. Comments: one of my favourite self-blends from Foursquare so far (but we are eagerly awaiting an 8, 10, or 12-year-old ex-pot still – you say that exists?) The cognac doesn't really come through as cognac, in my opinion. 91 points - whiskyfun.com
...All in all this perhaps isn’t one of the best ECS rums that has been released. Having said that it is still better than probably 90% of most distilleries production. I am very much judging these releases almost in a class of their own now. I am probably being far more critical than maybe I should be…….this is still a very good rum! If you can get a bottle, buy a bottle. At this point in time I would say that about any ECS release. 4.5 stars - thefatrumpirate.com
- BARBADOS$189.99$189.99Bottle$2,279.88DozenABV: 60%
“To drink Foursquare Rum, one must only possess a dream of tasting some of the finest things that money can buy…” -Warren Bobrow, Forbes.com
For those serious about rum, Foursquare needs no introduction. Within an industry dominated by corporations, marketing hype and additives, the distillery has become a byword for classic Caribbean styles. Master Blender and Distiller, Richard Seale continues to fight for transparency in production and labelling. His talent and drive led noted drinks authority, Fred Minnick to describe Foursquare as "the Pappy of rum." The Exceptional Cask Selections are the personal passion of Seale, often delivering the kind of purity, poise and elegance at 60% that leans towards XO cognac. Give these sensational spirits time to breathe in order to experience them at their best.
The 24th release (Mark XXIV) for the Exceptional Cask Selection series is a 2011 vintage blend of traditional column and pot still rums aged for 12 years in ex-bourbon barrels and bottled at a high strength of 60% ABV. As with previous editions, this represents the most unique and coveted rum from the distillery. Seale's commitment to purity is maintained with no added sugar, colouring, or other additives and zero chill filtration.
Notes from the importers... a bouquet of caramelised grapefruit, dark cocoa, butterscotch, clove, and allspice, then morphing into notes of sandalwood, brine, overripe pineapple, candied banana, and molasses, with hints, in the background, of apricot and plums. The palate is big, expressive, and rich, serving up, amid the almost unctuous unfolding, an array of tropical fruits and dried berries; there is an intricacy here, too, a kind of embroidered quality, with notes of black tea, citrus peel, and baking spices all making themselves felt. The finish is dry and lengthy, with a marvellous and subtle tannic quality.
- BARBADOS$199.00$199.00Bottle$2,388.00DozenABV: 60%
"The quality coming out of this distillery now is nothing short of staggering." - rumratings.com
Another testament to Richard Seale's prowess as one of the rum world's best blenders has arrived. Collectors will already be aware that the Exceptional cask series consists of just three annual releases. The quality is usually outstanding - the only problem is that the outturns are tiny. The 21st iteration hits all the right notes for savvy rum drinkers, with some considering it to be one of the best in the series to date - the team at rumratings.com aggregating an unusually high score of 9.2. Molasses-based, pot and column distilled and aged in ex-Bourbon casks for 12 years in the tropical climate of Barbados, Mark XXI comes bottled at 60% ABV without any additions. Very limited stocks.
Other reviews... The quality coming out of this distillery now is nothing short of staggering. Tell me where you can get this level of sipping spirit experience for similar money? The only downside is how limited it is, if you want to buy one off the shelf there is no comparison sadly as even Doorlys 14 doesn’t come close :( - rumratings.com
- Limit One per customer
Foursquare Isonomy Exceptional Cask Selection 17 Year Old Single Blended Rum (700ml)BARBADOS$220.00$220.00Bottle$2,640.00DozenABV: 58%"...one of the best ECS releases to date. Probably the best in the ex-bourbon only line up. If you can find a bottle then you won’t be disappointed." - thefatrumpirate.com
The 20th release in the ECS series and at seventeen years, it's the oldest on record. Isonomy is a 2005 pot and column still blend of rums aged in ex-bourbon casks. The way these releases are routinely selling out, happy hunting if you don't get in quick! 58% Alc./Vol. Very limited stocks.
Other reviews... Seventeen years, that's a proper age! This is a 'single blend', so batch + column, so I suppose we shouldn't expect the same kind of knack this time. As for the name here, I would suppose the next bottling will be named 'Democracy'. We cannot wait… Colour: amber. Nose: the tropical aging starts to feel, with some thicker tar, more concentrated flower essences, whiffs of sandalwood, even incense, garam masala… It's as if at this age, the pot-still part would be winning over, although this remains delicate and 'kind of lighter'. Well, after the White, they're all going to be lighter. With water: flowers and varnish, honeysuckle, acacia... Mouth (neat): caramel, curry, allspice. With water: indeed, fudge, Frappuccino (apologies), hazelnut liqueur, even Bayley's (renewed apologies), and triple-sec. The column is having the upper hand this time. Finish: medium, easier, sweeter… And moreish. Comments: I don't think you could really beat the white LFT, but we're close. I hope they are keeping some mature 'pure' pot-still FS for later. 89 points - whiskyfun.com
...a lovely big nose which will hold your attention for quite some time and is well worth spending time with before the sip. Sipped Foursquare Isonomy is a big, more complex version of the 2004 and 2005 ECS releases. The extra years in the barrel have certainly added an extra layer. It is more rounded and fruitier. It still retains a lot of features of the 2004 and 2005 – the Bourbon esque spicy oaky notes and the big vanilla flavours but it is has also added an extra depth. It’s slightly more velvety. A lttle easier to drink even at the 58% ABV. It slips down nicely the initial entry is oaky but quickly mellows into the fruitiness and vanilla flavours. The mid palate shows an array of oak, fruit and dark chocolate notes. This leads into a long and very well rounded finish which just goes on and on....... Maybe in hindsight, it would be fun to re-review every ECS and try and rank and rate them. However, I do think that they quality has remained pretty consistent and I’d be surprised if I ever re-visited them and felt they had somehow become inferior. Maybe some of the lower ABV early releases, might suffer slightly but I tend not obsess over ABV too much. It doesn’t concern me as much as some I find. I can still enjoy 40% ABV sippers. This is one of the best ECS releases to date. Probably the best in the ex-bourbon only line up. If you can find a bottle then you won’t be disappointed. 5 stars - thefatrumpirate.com
- Limit Three per customer
Foursquare Sovereignty Exceptional Cask Selection 14 Year Old Single Blended Rum (700ml)BARBADOS$199.00$199.00Bottle$2,388.00DozenABV: 62%For anyone seeking high quality 'malternatives' without breaking the bank, look no further than Barbados's Foursquare Distillery. Three exceptional cask selections are put out annually and word has got around. These now move out in a steady stacatto. We've secured small volumes of "Indeliable" and "Sovereignty". The latter marks the 19th addition to the Exceptional Cask series and is a patriotic tribute to Barbados severing ties with the British crown, removing Elizabeth II as the symbolic head of state and becoming a republic as of November 2021. The liquid itself is a heady mix of two distinct single blended rums: One full-term matured in x-Bourbon barrels and a second double-matured - specifically, three years in x-Bourbon barrels followed by eleven years in x oloroso sherry casks. Reportedly, Sovereignty shows significant layers with Foursquare's typically impeccable balance – citrusy and fruit forward, complexed by oxidative and nutty characteristics, no doubt due to the sherry influence. Bottled at 62%, it is the 'big gun' release for 2021, and as standard, comes without filtration or any additives. Collectable.
Other reviews... Sovereignty is another fantastic rum. Sherry casks can sometimes be overpowering and muting to me. Not in this case. It’s strong but so well integrated, resulting in a rum that has a lot of depth. I tasted it in Barbados and really liked it. Turns out I still do, even when I’m drinking it in Canada. It might sound somewhat repetitive, but this might be the best sherry/bourbon cask Foursquare rum I’ve had. The only competition for that title are the Master Series 1, a private cask selection that was exceptional and Patrimonio. It's getting busy at the top! You’d do well with any of these. - rumrevelations.com
Notes from the producers... Initial Impressions:Full flavored and complex. Sovereignty shows significant layers with impeccable balance - citrusy and fruit forward while having complex oxidative and nutty characteristics. Aroma: Notes of grapefruit peel, with dark fruits - cherries & blackberries, followed by dark chocolate, cashews, caramelized pineapple and pipe tobacco. Palate: Bold and complex - citrus & fruit notes; pomegranate, toasted almond, hazelnuts. With hints of toasted baking spices - cinnamon & clove. Finishes dry and lightly tannic with rich caramel, tobacco and over ripe pineapple notes lingering.
- 96
- Nicks Import
2009 Foursquare Exceptional Cask Selection 12 Year Old Full Proof Single Blended Rum (750ml)BARBADOS$165.00$165.00Bottle$1,980.00DozenABV: 60%For those serious about rum, Foursquare needs no introduction. Within an industry dominated by corporations, marketing hype and additives, the distillery has become a byword for classic Caribbean styles. Master Blender and Distiller, Richard Seale continues to fight for transparency in production and labelling. His talent and drive led noted spirits authority, Fred Minnick to describe Foursquare as "the Pappy of rum." This is the seventeenth Exceptional Cask Release since the original 1998 edition. These releases are the personal passion of Seale. Typically around eleven to twelve years old and bottled around the 60% ABV mark, the 2009 is an 'all-natural' (nothing added) blend of pot and Coffey distilled molasses rums, delivering the kind of purity, poise and elegance at 60% that leans towards XO cognac. Full-term matured in Barbados in 1st, 2nd and 3rd fill ex-Bourbon barrels, the flavour profile follows the aromas in a complex, seamless integration of banana bread, baked pineapple, mango, dried figs, coconut, wild honey and sweet spices that powers on at remarkable length. There is barely a trace of burn from the alcohol, the finish finely balancing the sugars with notes of cigar box, pepper and molasses cake. It feels utterly effortless from beginning to end. Give this sensational rum time to breathe to experience it at its best. Very limited stocks.
Other reviews... Wow! Surprised this hasn’t had a full house given to it yet so here is one from me. This is better than the 2007, and as good as the 2008. Different yes, more subtle, less burn and dangerously easy to sip. Richard Seale is a genius. 10/10 - rumratings.com
- BARBADOS$189.99$189.99Bottle$2,279.88DozenABV: 60%For those serious about rum, Foursquare needs no introduction. Within an industry dominated by corporations, marketing hype and additives, the distillery has become a byword for classic Caribbean styles. Seale continues to fight for transparency in production and labeling. His talent and drive led noted spirits authority, Fred Minnick to describe Foursquare as "the Pappy of rum." This is the thirteenth Exceptional Cask Release since the original 1998 edition. These releases are the personal passion of Richard Seale, Foursquare's current Master Blender and Distiller. Typically around eleven to twelve years old and bottled around the 60% ABV mark, the 2008 is an 'all-natural' (nothing added) blend of pot and Coffey distilled molasses rums, full-term matured in Barbados in 1st, 2nd and 3rd fill ex-Bourbon barrels. Extremely limited stocks.
Other reviews... Look for intense aromas of prunes, dried cherries, maple syrup and burnt sugar with more subtle notes of roasted banana. This rum is buttery on the palate, with an interesting complexity and rich fruit flavor of dark berries, vanilla, praline, cinnamon spice and black pepper. There's quite a long fade, with savory qualities coming through. Savor it a while and notice how the flavor evolves over time. 92 points - distiller.com
Foursquare Rum Distillery 2008 delivers everything it promises on the nose and then some more. Without samples to hand I wouldn’t like to rank and rate the series. This is no disappointment. It might even be the best example of this “expression” we have had so far. Another instant classic from Foursquare. - thefatrumpirate.com
- JAMAICAReduced from
$280.00$250.00$250.00Bottle$3,000.00DozenABV: 60%In 2016 Velier launched the Habitation Velier portfolio - the world’s only range of Pure Single Rums. These are rums from a single distillery, distilled exclusively in pot stills. Complex and typically more suitable to long ageing, Velier's selections are entirely matured in the tropics, ensuring a natural, though accelerated development of flavours at the expense of a higher angel's share (>22%).
Always highly anticipated, Long Pond has become a Jamaican reference point for rum enthusiasts. This youthful edition was distilled from molasses in 2019 and aged for three years. It's worth noting that after closing from 2012 to 2017 for renovation, the Long Pond distillery was almost destroyed by a flash fire that sarted in the cane fields. It ravaged the fermentation room and fresh rum stocks (approximately 65,000 litres were destroyed). In that context, we're lucky to have received this rum at all. The flames spared its famous John Dore stills and no less legendary Blair column stills, prized for capturing the deeply mineral, empyreumatic and medicinal character for which this magnificent ester-rich marque is so well-known. 1200 bottles are on offer globally. No sugar has been added. 60% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... "I love it! A fine rum with balance and elegance on the palate and finish, but you have to be patient and disregard the first nose. It probably lacks age, but I definitely like Long Pond." - rum-x.com
"Overall, a beautiful, wild Long Pond, which also makes a good figure in the Mai Tai." - rum-x.com
Notes from the bottlers... Nose : Rich, heady. The incredible first nose is empyreumatic (apricot kernel, turpentine, diesel), exotic (persimmon, mango, guava), oxidative (balsamic vinegar, macerated fruit) and syrupy (hot cane sugar). Allowed to breathe, fragrances of vetiver, lavender honey, lime and jasmine give an idea of the breadth and complexity of the aroma palette. Palate : Taut, lively. On the attack, notes of petrol and very ripe mango appear alongside chocolatey and spicy (ylang ylang, clove, saffron) flavours. On the mid-palate, roasted pineapple and plantain banana juicily and smoothly enrich the flavour palette’s exotic register. The even fruitier end of the palate reveals notes of peach, pear, kaffir lime and coconut. Finish : Long, concentrated. The powdery finish (cocoa, rice pudding, grated ginger) is remarkably soft. The slender end of the finish gives its own take on the exotic register of the nose and palate. On the retro-nasal olfaction, a vanilla, spicy (cinnamon, ginger) and herbaceous (sugar cane) cane sugar spreads across the palate. The empty glass is in turn medicinal (elastoplast), camphoric and mellow (artichoke heart).
- JAMAICA$260.00$260.00Bottle$3,120.00DozenABV: 60.5%
Falling into the LROK marque (Light Rum Owen Kelly) at 200-400 gr/hlpa of esters, this unusual Velier brings some of whisky's historical practices to rum. Indeed, maturation in a combination of nine Pedro Ximénez and Oloroso sherry casks has given it a patina that recalls certain Scottish single malts. This is a low ester Hampden, yet rich, dense and full of vigour. The flavour profile takes us into increasingly autumnal territories, eclipsed by a very pleasant herbal bitterness. Bottled at barrel proof with no sugar added. 60.5% Alc./Vol.
Notes from the bottlers... Aroma: Full, heady. Revealing delicious cocoa, liquorice, balsamic notes (cedar), autumnal tones (dried leaves, lichen) and herbal infusions (thyme, bay leaf), the aroma palette beams with fresh complexity. Allowed to breathe, citrus fruit fragrances (orange, mandarin), apricot, sandalwood and wax bring great nobility. Taste: Rich, dense. The flavour palette is full of energy and takes us to even more autumnal lands (porcini mushroom, truffle, chestnut). A very pleasant herbaceous bitterness (gentian, mint) arrives at the perfect time to refresh the taste buds. Emery cloth and walnut stain add the finishing touches to this colourful ensemble. Finish: Long, rich. Intensifying the aroma palette’s chocolate character, the tasting becomes very rich (chocolate cake, .clair). Increasingly powdery (cinnamon, rice, ginger), it lingers on flavours of raisin and dates. The empyreumatic retro-nasal olfaction (diesel, fuel oil) marks the Hampden signature.
- GUADELOUPE$199.00$199.00Bottle$2,388.00DozenABV: 62%
Martinique, Guadeloupe and the adjacent island, Marie-Galante represent the very heart of Rhum Agricole. While they may lack the global footprint of molasses-based rum, rigorous regulations and strict adherence to high-quality production standards make it hard to find anything less than stellar examples out of Martinique and the lesser known Guadeloupe. Velier's Luca Gargano selected this expression from Papa Rouyo distillery (established 2021) located in Goyave in Guadeloupe, and bearing the nickname of Charles Albert Ruscade. Born in 1900, he was the son of a cane planter and became a farmer himself from 1920 until his death in 1980. It's from this heritage that the idea of creating a micro-distillery in his name was born in the minds of three cane planters: Papa Rouyo's great-grandson, Joris Galli, as well as master growers Tim Synésius and Jean-Marie Gobardha.
According to Velier's classification, this distillate is Pure Single Agricole - that is, from a single distillery, distilled exclusively in pot stills. An ester content of 67.9 g/hlap has been achieved using a variety of cane called Matos (B80.0689) grown on the distillery's original (and historic) four hectare plot named 'Le Moule', situated on the limestone-clay soil of eastern Grande-Terre plateau. Synésius, who is one of the distillery’s “maîtres-canniers”, ensures the canes are hand-harvested before being crushed on-site. A long fermentation and a double distillation allow a particularly intense aromatic extraction, resulting in a pungent and multi-faceted agricole with vegetal notes alongside lime, olive, dried herbs and brine that will add a vivaciousness to cocktails. Nothing was added before bottling, only a reduction was done with Saint-Claude spring water. Distilled in 2021. 62% Alc./Vol. Very limited stocks.
- 95
- Nicks Import
2016 Habitation Velier Hampden Diamond H Jamaica Cask Strength Pure Single Rum (700ml)JAMAICA$255.00$255.00Bottle$3,060.00DozenABV: 62%Velier have released another Hampden marque in the series: 'Diamond H' (also noted as '<>H'). At 900 and 1000 gr/HLPA after distillation, this is a typical example of a high ester style , though less extreme compared to its predecessors HGML and C<>H. We tasted a 10ml sample alongside Hampden's 47% 'LROK'. This is almost twice as intense offering compelling aromas of shellac and funk giving way to fruit bread, pineapple pudding, icing sugar and plantain (amongst other notes). It boasts a super pure, high definition 'tropicality' with an almost sappy, briney, agave-like edge and bittersweet flavours of cocoa, semi-ripe mango and papaya continuing the theme at length. Aged entirely in Jamaica for five years in ex-bourbon barrels with an angel's share of 40%, it's another complex, powerful and evocative Hampden that will appeal to both rum purists and collectors. 62% Alc./Vol. Very limited stocks.
Notes from the bottlers... Nose : Intense and concentrated. Pineapple, black olive, notes of star anis. Palate: Full-bodied and refined. Banana, almond paste, acetone. Overall : Empyreumatic and deep. Citrus fruit, notes of hydrocarbon.The Velier company was founded by the Chaix family in 1947. From 1953 to 1983, this small traditional company located in the port of Gênes, specialised in the importation and distribution of wines, champagnes and spirits. In 1983, then aged 25, Luca Gargano acquired shares in Velier. Under his influence the company began specialising in the importation of exceptional spirits to be supplied to the most prestigious establishments in Italy. In the early 1990s, Luca Gargano heard rumours of a mythical, quasi-legendary stock of St James Rum that had supposedly been distilled at the end of the 19th century. Eventually he discovered proof that this stock, distilled in 1885 and bottled in 1952, did indeed exist. And in 1991, following lengthy discussions, Luca finally managed to acquire the entirety of this stock, which he then released on the Italian market. These selections of rums have since multiplied and led to a myriad of Velier selections.
- BARBADOS$199.00$199.00Bottle$2,388.00DozenABV: 59%Habitation Velier are building a reputation as 'The House of Pure Single Rums', releasing in conjunction with various Caribbean distilleries. Strictly speaking, these are not independent bottlings, rather more like a joint business venture. Each "Pure Single Rum" is meant as an expression of each distillery’s unique still, as pictured on the labels. This now very rare Barbados edition was produced at the famous Mount Gay distillery in a triple-distillation pot still. As such, it's the first rum in the three-hundred-year history of the distillery to be produced exclusively via a pot still. A marrying of nineteen of the oldest barrels available to Velier at the time, ten years of tropical aging saw a whopping 64% of the rum lost to evaporation. Finally bottled at barrel proof, unfiltered, sugar free, and completely aged in ex-bourbon barrels on site, this historic release should be on every collector's short list. (The name is a tribute to Frank Ward and his family, who owned and ran the distillery for over a century before it was acquired by Remy Cointreau). 59% Alc./Vol.
- JAMAICA$210.00$210.00Bottle$2,520.00DozenABV: 62%Habitation Velier are bulding a reputation as 'The House of Pure Single Rums', releasing in conjunction with various Caribbean distilleries. Strictly speaking, these are not independent bottlings, rather more like a joint business venture. Each "Pure Single Rum" is meant as an expression of each distillery’s unique still, as pictured on the labels. This edition is from Jamaica's Clarendon Distillery (est.1949), home to about 5-6 column still marques and about 20 pot still marques. Amongst these is Monymusk. Named after a bygone sugar plantation, the brand has only been around since 2012. Velier's is distilled in a single retort pot still, resulting in a powerful, fruity rum with esters around 270 gr/hpa. Like all the Velier rums, it is entirely aged in the tropics, bottled at barrel proof without chill filtration or added caramel or any other element. Very limited stocks. 62% Alc./Vol.
- JAMAICA$189.99$189.99Bottle$2,279.88DozenABV: 60.5%Built in 1750 and sought after for its powerful, estery, pot-distilled spirit, the Hampden estate is renowned for possessing the best cane lands in Jamaica producing the highest tonne sugar from tonne cane milled. LFCH is a new marque created in 2010, identifying rums with a 200-250 Gr/hpla ester count, which means you can expect a very fruity style. This youthful Velier was distilled in 2011 and bottled in 2018 with almost half lost to evaporation. Extremely limited stocks. Tasting note: [15ml sample] Deep gold. The stunning cognac-like bouquet is a creamy melting pot of fruity-oily complexity unfolding as lanolin, dates, dried figs, white chocolate, bush honey and banana bread. Incredible restraint at 60% with a charge of molasses, baking spices and dried banana leading into fresher, caney/grassy notes to finish. Cocoa, all-spice, molasses and hints of curry leaf through the prolonged aftertaste. Worth it for the nose alone. Superb. 60.5% Alc./Vol.
- JAMAICA$199.00$199.00Bottle$2,388.00DozenABV: 59%Worthy Park Estate is an historic Jamaican distillery that re-opened in 2005. Habitation Velier are releasing their rums in conjunction with WP, so strictly speaking, these are not independent bottlings, rather more like a joint business venture.
This ten year old 100% Pot still rum is a result of the third distillation since re-opening. Aged in ex-bourbon barrels and bottled in late 2017, notable here is the designation 'WPL' on the label which stands for 'Worthy Park Light', meaning it's a relatively low ester rum. Habitation Velier are also now emphasising the Worthy Park title, rather than using the still names (e.g. 'Forsyths', as on the 2005 and 2006 editions). Extremely limited allocation. Tasting note: [20ml sample] Deep honey gold. Initial nosing finds subtle scents of icing sugar, liquorice root and peppercorns; Second pass is more intense, expressive and complex, now picking up oily, resiny aromas as well as raw sugar, banana cake, rolling tobacco, wild honey wavering between drier notes of lead pencil and plantain. Unfolds in the mouth in a tsunami of cocoa, unrefined sugar and vanilla countered by pineapple and caney freshness. Ends zesty, grassy, finely astringent, prolonged. Exceptional. Best Worthy Park to date. 59% Alc./Vol. - BARBADOS$160.00$160.00Bottle$1,920.00DozenABV: 64%Consistently praised as a producer of some of Barbados's finest rums, the Foursquare distillery is also the home of famous brands like Doorlys and R.L. Seale. This all natural bottling from Velier was 100% pot distilled and bottled in 2015 after brief maturation in x Cognac barrels. Tasting note: Bright gold. A few off notes, but builds nicely with a powerful bouquet reminiscent of wild honey, cinnamon and brandy sauce. Second pass finds nuances of clove, ginger bread and dark chocolate. Oily and warming with medium-sweet, spiced fruit cake flavours, along side honey and light molasses. A beautifully balanced and surprisingly elegant rum that shows amazing control and maturity for its youth.
64% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered. - JAMAICA$185.00$185.00Bottle$2,220.00DozenABV: 57.5%Worthy Park Estate is a historic distillery in Jamaica that re-opened in 2005.
During the second year of distillation, 25 barrels of the high ester WPM marque were bottled in a unique, unrepeatable release. This is it: 100% pot still rum from estate grown molasses bottled 11 years later at natural strength, with zero additives and entirely aged in the tropics in x Bourbon barrels. Extremely limited allocation. Tasting note: Beautiful deep amber - topaz colour. Highly aromatic, drier nose-feel is also compellingly pure, with golden syrup, raw sugar and dried grass-like notes developing dried mango / apricot, vanilla, caramel and sweet oak. Entry is bittersweet suggesting liquorice strap and golden syrup. Mid palate turns softer, creamier bordering on luxurious. Finish melts across the tongue, closing caney / grassy then oaky, nutty, spicy yet remarkably fresh. Near zero burn. Resonates over ten minutes with echoes of molasses and ripe tropical fruits. Exceptional. 57.5% Alc./Vol. - BARBADOS$199.00$199.00Bottle$2,388.00DozenABV: 59%Habitation Velier are building a reputation as 'The House of Pure Single Rums', releasing in conjunction with various Caribbean distilleries. Strictly speaking, these are not independent bottlings, rather more like a joint business venture. Each "Pure Single Rum" is meant as an expression of each distillery’s unique still, as pictured on the labels. This now very rare Barbados edition was produced at the famous Mount Gay distillery in a triple-distillation pot still. As such, it's the first rum in the three-hundred-year history of the distillery to be produced exclusively via a pot still. A marrying of nineteen of the oldest barrels available to Velier at the time, ten years of tropical aging saw a whopping 65% of the rum lost to evaporation. Finally bottled at barrel proof, unfiltered, sugar free, and completely aged in ex-bourbon barrels on site, this historic release should be on every collector's short list. (The name is a tribute to Frank Ward and his family, who owned and ran the distillery for over a century before it was acquired by Remy Cointreau). 59% Alc./Vol.
- JAMAICA$260.00$260.00Bottle$3,120.00DozenABV: 57%
"a total banger... Another killer." - drinkhacker.com
Renewed every year since 2019, Hampden's 2024 'Great House' marks the sixth opus in a series that pays tribute to the distillery’s feature building, constructed in 1779 by the Stirling family and still standing in its original form. Traditionally used to hold barrels until the 20th century, today it's become the main place of reception. The new rum bearing its name departs from previous releases, being a blend of several marques instead of just two, and sourced from three different vintages (50% 3 Year LFCH 2021, 20% 4 Year LFCH 2020, 15% 6 Year HGML 2018 & 15% 3 Year DOK 2021 - the latter fermented to the highest legal ester limit in Jamaica, i.e. 1500-1600 grams per hectolitre of alcohol.) Molasses and dunder (residue from previous runs) were distilled in a double retort pot still with full-term tropical maturation taking place in x-Bourbon barrels. If you're a fan of full-bodied single malts, there's no reason why funky, high-ester Jamaicans like this shouldn't be in your cabinet. The flavours may be more exotic, but the overall sensory experience is comparable. As per the last edition, Great House 2024 lands just shy of the historic 100 proof and allocations remain meagre. 57% Alc./vol.
Other reviews... Hampden‘s end-of-year seasonal rum release is here, as always providing a powerful look at the very best that this essential Jamaican distillery can produce and blend. The sixth edition is, as always, a different blend of rums than in prior years (this one hails from three different vintages), but it’s still a total banger. Aromas of torched, almost burnt pineapple find a happy companion in elements of grassy saltwater marsh and a dusting of gunpowder that’s on the verge of being ignited. The palate keeps the fires burning by pairing lit matchsticks with fresh papaya and guava, with a swath of citrus peel expressed across the top. The finish reminds me more of cotton candy than fruit (tropical or otherwise) or other sweeteners, hinting at Bubble Yum and winding down with a touch of almond butter, studded with raisins. Another killer. - drinkhacker.com
...I gave it a 10 cause at nose (and in the mouth) it's incredibly rich, long and powerfull. It's as funky as a great Caribbean rum should be but it's not too aggressive so you don't really feel the abv. What I loved about this edition, is the intense fruit smells you get as soon as you open the bottle and (my taste) the strong dried apricot feeling. - rumratings.com
Notes from the producers... Nose: Full with a lot of tension. Mint, ripe mango and dry earth form a subtle and precise first sequence of aromas. Quince jelly, bramble jam and orange marmalade then set a richer tone. Palate: Clear and lively. The flavour palette is at first abundantly tropical (coconut, mango, passion fruit) and matches the nose perfectly. Alternating between warm and refreshing sequences, it offers a taste of chocolate drops, fragments of slate and mint tea. Finish: Rich and invigorating. The intense finish lingers on herbaceous (Havana cigar) and peppery tones. Diverse infusions of red fruits and marshmallow bring freshness. Increasingly rich, the finish ends on cranberry and raisin.
Founded in 1753 Hampden Estate has been distilling rum for almost three centuries in the Trelawny Parish, historically known as the grand cru of Jamaican rum. Renowned throughout the world for its full, intensely flavorful rums, Hampden Estate has always produced quintessential, heavy pot still pure single rums, using unique methods that guarantee its remarkable aromas and truly exceptional taste. Since 2009, the distillery started ageing its rums on site, in the tropical climate of Jamaica.
- Limit One per customer
Hampden Estate Great House Distillery Edition 2023 Release Pure Single Jamaica Rum (700ml)JAMAICA$230.00$230.00Bottle$2,760.00DozenABV: 57%After 250 years of exporting in bulk to independent bottlers and merchants, Hampden Estate is finally marketing their very own rum. Named after the distillery's warehouse, this is the fourth iteration of 'Great House' to arrive in Australia since the inaugural 2020 bottling. It's a molasses based, 100% Pot Still rum made according to 18th century methods resulting in a potent ABV and a high level of esters. Regarding the latter, there's conjecture amongst reviewers as to their sensory impact. Even though the blended marques and their proportions differ slightly from year to year, cross-comparison tastings between vintages of Great House find plenty of similarities, the consensus being that the 2023 edition is slightly better than the previous favourite, the 2020. Limited to 5739 bottles, no sugar or flavouring has been added. 57% Alc./Vol.
Notes from the bottlers... Colour : Deep golden yellow. Nose : Fine and heady. At first scent, distinguished aromas of sugarcane flower, sugarcane, and vanilla diffuse. Oxidative, the aromatic palette then reveals scents of hydrocarbons, Bourbon vanilla, and exotic fruits (pineapple, banana). Palate : Rich, powerful. Vivid notes of camphor and vetiver precede flavors of cloves gradually enveloping the taste buds. Velvety, the mid-palate is delightfully vanilla, lemony, honeyed (acacia), and licorice (stick). Finish : Long, refined. Warm sugarcane flows over the palate. The aftertaste is indulgent, with a milky (coconut, almond) and subtly aniseed mouthfeel. Notes of ginger, mirabelle, and aromatic plants (wild thyme, sage) extend the tasting experience.
- Limit One per customer
Hampden Estate Great House Distillery Edition 2022 Release Pure Single Jamaica Rum (700ml)JAMAICA$250.00$250.00Bottle$3,000.00DozenABV: 55%The Hampden Estate is now acknowledged by spirits experts as one of the world's most important rum producers. Now what was relegated to the warehouse and shipped to merchants for blending for centuries is now being made available as an official bottling to a wider audience. The Great House features different marks and vintages, each new release aiming to highlight a different aspect of the distillery's diverse profile. This is the third edition to land on our shelves. Deep, complex and balanced, with an ever-changing take on Hampden’s aromatic complexity, this year, the team chose a mix of medium and higher ester marques. That translates to 73.5% of HGML rum that was distilled in 2019 and aged 3 years, combined with 26.5% of LFCH rum distilled in 2011 and aged 11 years. What the marques refer to is not stated. Bottled at a strength of 55%, it goes without saying, no sugar or flavouring has been added. Like last year's release, the third edition is allocated globally and has been entirely tropically aged. Very limited stocks. 3600 bottles produced.
Notes from the importers... a must-have for anyone who wants to enjoy an elegant flavor bomb of a rum that can be sipped neat or enjoyed in some amazing cocktails as as the classic Mai Tai. On the nose it is lively, smooth with candied lemon, ripe banana, lychee kiwi and pear. On the palate there are notes of pear, coconut, agave, pepper, sugar cane, rhubarb and vanilla. The finish is long and smooth with tobacco, gentian root, salted butter and caramel, raspberry and cherries.
- Limit One per customer
Hampden Estate Pagos 100% Ex-Sherry Cask Pure Single Jamaica Rum (700ml)JAMAICA$179.99$179.99Bottle$2,159.88DozenABV: 52%The mastermind behind Velier, Luca Gargano has been working with the famous sherry Bodega 'Lustau' securing casks filled with Oloroso and Pedro Ximenez along the way. Twenty were sent to Haiti and another twenty to Jamaica. 'Pagos' which is Spanish for 'cluster' is, according to Luca, the first rum to be fully aged in true sherry casks, thus marking the beginning of a new era for Hampden's rums. On top of that, ageing happened entirely onsite. Although it's not stated on the label, the rum is probably somewhere between 3 or 4 years old. Nothing has been added prior to bottling at 52% Alc./Vol. Very limited stocks.
Other reviews... Pot stills, NAS, butts, PX and oloroso, where else did we spot that already? Doesn't the world of 'aged' (sometimes barely) spirits get globalised? And what's the proper price for NAS? Colour: deep gold. Nose: Hampden, at least this one, is much more acetic (not ascetic) and varnishy than WP. Huge brine, glues, nail polish remover, olives and capers. I wouldn't swear poor PX does come through, but that's good news in my book. With water: new magazines and books, touch of juniper and caraway, green walnuts, nocino… Mouth (neat): high and heavy, with a lot of acetone, even a feeling of ammonia, liquorice, grass extract (more and more chefs are using that), salty cough syrup, eucalyptus… Frankly, I'd have said Yarmouth. With water: superb salty and varnishy development, all with green walnuts that keep it really tight and dry. Finish: very long, salty, with sardines, anchovies and olives. Comments: I find it absolutely excellent, but the WPs were rather more complex (especially the Picnic). Now, there isn't only complexity in life, naturally. Very good Hampden. 88 points - whiskyfun.com
- JAMAICA$199.99$199.99Bottle$2,399.88DozenABV: 55%
Founded in 1779, Hampden's Great House ('Habitation' in French) traditionally served as a storage warehouse for barrels until the early 1900s. Recently Hampden have been putting out their own bottlings of aged rum, rather than selling in bulk for others to market. Luca Gargano, director of Habitation Vélier, brought this production to the attention of rum lovers globally. However, despite it's 'Velier' presentation, the blending was done by Master Distiller, Vivian Wisdom. Considered by experts to be the most authentic in the Jamaican pantheon, this promises a heady, captivating and bewitching rum experience. All tropically aged, it goes without saying, no sugar or flavouring has been added. Like last year's release, the second edition is allocated globally. Very limited stocks. 55% Alc./Vol.
- JAMAICA$150.00$150.00Bottle$1,800.00DozenABV: 60%A tiny allocation of this much awaited overproof release from the legendary Hampden Estate has finally arrived. Promising the kind of "Jamaican Funk " that's garnered a strong following, it's also the first aged rum to be released directly by Hampden, otherwise only available via independents. 60% Alc./Vol. Other reviews... If you like Worthy Park rums and the older Appleton Rums, the 12 but the 21 in particular, then I think you will get a lot of enjoyment out of this. If you are after some insane ester heavy bruiser then give this a swerve. But please re-consider at a later date. Hampden Estate Overproof is a really well-balanced, beautifully put together rum. At 60% ABV it should satisfy anyone’s desire for “Cask Strength” rum. Also it is priced competitively alongside the Indie bottlings. I would certainly recommend picking up a bottle of this, instead of perhaps chucking at a 20 year plus independent bottling. It makes a belting rum and coke as well…
4.5 stars - thefatrumpirate.com - JAMAICA$134.99$134.99Bottle$1,619.88DozenABV: 46%
Velier has more or less had exclusivity on Hampden rum bottlings since 2018, a collaboration that's likely to continue through their new organisation of La Maison & Velier. However, Luca Gargano makes it clear that this is not a Velier release, despite the similarity in packaging. After 250 years of exporting in bulk to independent bottlers and merchants alike, Hampden have finally released a rum under their own label. In this case, Velier is merely the distributor.
Thirty one barrels make up the blend. All the rums were derived from fermentation with wild yeasts (or dunder) "...a process not totally dissimilar from sour mashing in Kentucky, which uses the spent lees of distillation to cultivate flavour producing bacteria. The muck that's harvested from those pits is added to the fermentation to create one of the most biologically complex worts in the world of distillation and the resulting spirit is packed full of complex esters."
Add to that eight years of 100% tropical aging (arguably equivalent to over two decades in a European climate) and you have a drier styled rum with all the funk and complexity you associate with Jamaica's best. Cut back with local spring water to 46% Alc./Vol., no sugar or flavouring is added.
Other reviews... Although not my favourite, this is real quality stuff. Unsweetened, uncoloured, single pot-stilled rum. All ingredients declared, the standard Luca Gargano and Richard Seale are trying to get the industry to aspire to. Nose very funky, in keeping with the esters declared on the label. Gluey, acetone entry, fading into dried bananas. In the mouth it's a beast, punching above its 46%. Alcohol and other volatiles kick your palate, there is a long spiritey finish, but a shortage of dried fruit and wood. Bone dry, sweetness 1/5. In the throat there is a burn that goes up your nose and follows down into your gullet. This is not a subtle rum. It'll make you sit up and take notice of what is the craft of double retort pot stills. The complete opposite of Zacapa / El Dorado / Diplomatico. I'm not sure whether I'd buy it again, but I loved the experience of unusual, but serious quality. - rumratings.com
- JAMAICA$180.00$180.00Bottle$2,160.00DozenABV: 59%
Probably one of the most allocated rums in recent history. A large market like the UK received just 240 bottles. Australia has much less.
Founded in 1779, Hampden's Great House ('Habitation' in French) traditionally served as a storage warehouse for barrels until the early 1900s. Recently Hampden have been putting out their own bottlings of aged rum, rather than selling in bulk for others to market. Luca Gargano, director of Habitation Vélier, brought this production to the attention of rum lovers globally. However, despite it's 'Velier' presentation, the blending was done by Master Distiller, Vivian Wisdom. It's a potent combination of two marques: OWH distilled in 2013 and Hampden DOK distilled in 2017. Similar to the way Scottish malt has PPM to measure peat (shorthand for parts-per-million), rum has g/hL AA, or grams per hectoliter of absolute alcohol. Some tasters equate the ester count to reflect the degree of 'fruitiness' or 'funk' in the rum. Here the majority (80%) OWH component falls between 80 and 120 grams of esters while the DOK falls between 1500 and 1600 grams. You can infer the aim of blending two very different ester counts is to create a balanced flavour profile. Considered by experts to be the most authentic in the Jamaican pantheon, this promises a heady, captivating and bewitching rum experience. All tropically aged, it goes without saying, no sugar or flavouring has been added.
Notes from the bottlers... Profile: powerful, the first nose is medicinal, camphoric, spicy, fruity (very ripe pineapple) and slightly tarred. With aeration, it evolves on the sweetness of molasses, notes of pipe tobacco and heady flowers (tuberose). Over time, it becomes more and more fruity (pear, peach). Tight, the attack on the palate reveals mineral (basalt), chocolate, liquorice and fruity (pineapple, Williams pear). Empyreumatic, the mid-palate is in turn tarred but also tangy (orange zest). Smooth, the start of the finish is delicious (vanilla cake, mille-feuille). It should be noted that the taste palette is constantly gaining in finesse. The retro-olfaction is powdery (cocoa), spicy (cinnamon) and refreshing. 59% Alc./Vol.
- JAMAICA$199.00$199.00Bottle$2,388.00DozenABV: 61%
The third Holmes Cay rum to be imported this year is an independent bottling of 2014 pure pot distillate from Clarendon Distillery in Lionel Town, Jamaica, tropically aged for eight years in ex-Bourbon casks before being transported to New York State for bottling without adulteration. Rum aficionados will note the EMB mark which indicates ester levels between 240-250 gr/HL AA. That's in the medium range of the distillery's output, yet tasting it you might think otherwise. Beyond the remarkably lifted aromatics, there's a dense core of over-ripe tropical fruit and funk that's all the more notable given that no dunder was used in the ferment. At a whopping 61% ABV in 750ml bottles, this well-balanced, characterful, all-natural beauty lands at a reasonable asking price that's guaranteed to tempt purists.
Notes from the importers... Nose: Lots of luscious, sweet, overripe tropical fruit salad at first, with bubblegum, maraschino cherry and vanilla notes bringing up the rear! Palate: Big and boisterous on the palate – the 61% is quite well behaved- but it’s still 61 frikkin percent! Unbelievably silky and viscous though, big waves of sweet fruit salad get matched with cloves, vanilla and other biscuit spices. Finish: For such a big rum, the finish definitely measures up – lot’s of oomph –but no ouch here. Lovely and warming, the various spices stand out as the sweetness dries. This is a BIG, boozelicious, funky rum that is incredibly (almost scarily) approachable for a 61% rum. A splash of water, or some ice will temper that some, but take care – the smooth integration of the alcohol is a trap! Lots of sweetness in this rum that is prevented from becoming sickly by a finish that dries out leaving your palate ready for another!
- Kununurra, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA$99.99$99.99Bottle$1,199.88DozenABV: 56.4%
Owner, developer and farmer Spike Dessert fell in love with the Kimberley when he saw it in 1972. In 1995 with the onset of Sugar Cane being grown in the Ord River Valley, he saw a way to diversify his dream and created the Hoochery - the oldest continuously operating distillery in Western Australia. Now if you are wondering about the name Hoochery, the name was trademarked by Spike from the word Hooch which goes back to the Hutanuwu (later modified to Hoochinoo) Indian tribe of Alaska who made alcoholic liquor - this is until it became the more popular name for the illegal activity of bootlegging!
Built on his farm just outside of Kununurra in the heart of the beautiful Ord River Valley is a small pot distillery, which has the capacity to produce over 50,000 bottles of Rum a year. The Ord River Rum is made from local sugar cane, wet season rainwater and yeast that is all vat fermented, pot distilled, charcoal filtered, aged in oak barrels and hand bottled. The distillery is 100% Australian owned and operated.
Tasting note: [VAT 29 Bottled 16.10.2013] Polished copper brass colour. Offers up powerful scents of dilute golden syrup, liquorice bullets, raw sugar and vanilla. A silky entry leads into a concentrated, initially dry then bitter sweet and mildly prickly profile that includes fruit and nut dark chocolate, charry oak and liquorice bullets followed by sweeter golden syrup and brown sugar flavours to close. Good persistence and well balanced given the high ABV. The Hoochery project continues to evolve. 56.4%Alc./Vol. First tasted 12.05.2008: Deep gold / brassy colour. Offers powerful, sweet scents of pine cone, golden syrup and brown sugar. Exceptionally concentrated, medium dry molasses flavours at first, becoming drier still at mid palate as oak and slightly bitter burnt sugar notes kick in. Overall, an intensely spicy, mildly prickly, slightly hot rum that’s still finding its balance (or perhaps the proprietors just like it this way). Lengthy molasses / golden syrup aftertaste. Better than Bundy. 88 points 56.4% Alc./Vol.
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2008 House of MacDuff The Golden Cask Don Jose Distillery Single Cask 14 Year Old Cask Strength Panama Rum (700ml)PANAMAReduced from$199.99$169.99$169.99Bottle$2,039.88DozenABV: 60.3%The name behind the famous Ron Abuelo brand, Distilleria Don Jose was founded by Don Jose Varelo Blanco as the Republic of Panama's first sugar mill in 1908. Nearly three decades later his three sons persuaded him to establish a distillery. In 1936, he fulfilled that dream. The third generation has since stepped in, developing proprietary yeast cultures. Silky smooth and soft on the nose, the aromas conjure honey drizzled buckwheat pancakes, candied pineapple, hints of papaya and light molasses. Almost Jamaican in its insistence on dark, heavy fruits, the noticeable alchohol, mouthfilling mid-palate and lengthy bittersweet finish makes this feel north-Caribbean more than South American. Proof that Abuelo is capable of some hefty styles. 224 bottles at 60.3% Alc./Vol.
- AUSTRALIA$59.99$59.99Bottle$719.88DozenABV: 57.2%
Inner Circle Rum was first produced by the CSR (Colonial Sugar Refinery) Company last century for the pleasure of its employees and very special clients - hence the name. From its first distillation, the objective was to make the best rum possible. In 1970, Inner Circle Rum was released into the Australian market and immediately created a cult like following. Those who found the Brand, ‘’only spoke of it in whispers but sung it’s praises loudly!’ It was originally available in three strengths, Underproof, Overproof and 33% Overproof. The label was instantly recognisable by it’s coloured circle and became identified as red, green or black dot. However, in 1986, CSR sold their rum distillery interests and Inner Circle was removed from the market. A great Aussie icon disappeared. In 2000 Stuart Gilbert, an Australian Olympic Yachtsman still lamenting the loss of his favourite rum, sought out and became acquainted with Malcolm Campbell who had been responsible for the distillation and quality control of Inner Circle from 1972 to 1986 when he supervised the very last bottling. To Stuart’s delight, Malcolm was only too willing to apply his many years of experience to the task of producing a rum deserving of the Inner Circle name. Inspired by this revelation, Stuart acquired the rights to the Brand name and now offers his product to the rum lovers of the world! In 2004, Inner Circle Rum purchased the Beenleigh Rum Distillery which, after some re-engineering, has begun producing the highest quality pot still rums. The Company has also purchased Offices in the old CSR Cooperage building at Pyrmont.
Presently the Rum is produced using the labour intensive pot still method, rather than the continuous distillation method used by most other commercial rums. The pot-still method is generally agreed to produce rums of a higher quality. Inner Circle Rum is made to the same blend and by the same blender as it was when it was last commercially available. The same quality that made it an icon brand has become the standard for the future of this 100% Australian owned company.
Inner Circle Green Dot 57.2% Dark Rum recently won the Jim Murray Trophy for the Best Rum at the prestigious 2004 International Wine and Spirit Competition held annually in London. Often referred to as “the Olympics of the beverage industry”, this competition is arguably one of the premier competitions of its type in the world and attracts the world’s best producers who showcase their products against their global competitors (www.iwsc.net ). As well as winning the Trophy for the Best Rum, Inner Circle Rums were also awarded 2 Gold Medals, 3 Silver Medals and 2 Bronze Medals. Considering there were many major global Corporations entering their branded Rums in this Competition, this small Australian Company has taken all before it, beating the best Rums from all over the world!
Other reviews... Rich copper hue. Robust toffee, floral, and brown spice aromas. A round, soft entry leads to a big, full-bodied palate with lush dried tropical fruits, burnt caramel, buttered roasted nuts, and lavish brown spices. Finishes with a huge wave of peppercorns, hot spice and a minerally, slightly rubbery edge. A dry powerhouse style in the vein of fine alembic Armagnac. Opens up tremendously with a little spring water. 57.2% Alc./Vol.
International Review of Spirits Award: Gold Medal
94 points (Exceptional) - tastings.com size> - Mornington Peninsula, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$110.00$110.00Bottle$1,320.00DozenABV: 57.8%Tasting note: [Batch 001] Clear. Similar to the standard strength 'Silver', the aroma evoking hints of crushed ants(?) and balsa wood in an exotic combination of grassy / briney / waxy / peppery complexity. Mouthfilling and well rounded sappy, grassy, briney flavours with a surge of white pepper heat. Finishes creamy, viscous, medium long. Highly textural. Good cocktail option. 57.8% Alc./Vol.
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$250.00$199.99$199.99Bottle$2,399.88DozenABV: 67.3%Not many rums can be found labelled with Travellers Distillery as their source. Established in 1953, it produces a variety of different liquors, specializing in molasses based rums, mainly supplying independent bottlers. The company gained its name from the success it achieved in serving travellers along the main route to and from Belize City. This edition is from Hunter Laing, better known for their indie whisky selections. Produced in a column still in 2007, just 188 bottles have been released under the Kill Devil label at a massive natural strength of 67.3%. Very limited stocks.
- GUYANA$260.00$260.00Bottle$3,120.00DozenABV: 59.9%
If you're looking for 'malternatives', this range is as good as any for single malt fans to leap into. Hunter Laing are whisky bottlers, fortunate enough to acquire stocks of aged rums from places such as Guyana and Jamaica, and the word amongst rum bloggers is that they're really beginning to make a mark in the rum world. A handful of the 230 bottle outturn of this cask strength Guyenese beauty have arrived. Produced at the Diamond Distillery via a pot still in 2003 and bottled at 59.9% without added colorants or chill filtration, expect a a big, bold rum.
Notes from the producers... Colour: Amber. Nose: dark chocolate, cardamom, cinnamon, spices. Taste: Complex notes, dried fruit, dates, raisins, oak. Finish: Long lasting.
- GUYANA$240.00$240.00Bottle$2,880.00DozenABV: 60.9%The Kill Devil series showcases the quality and diversity of rum from the Caribbean and further afield. Single casks are specially selected for shipment to Scotland for finishing. Behind the label are 'Hunter Laing', famous for their indie whiskies - which explains how they've got their hands on an x sherry cask that previously held Port Ellen single malt for 25 years. The rum itself is sourced from Diamond Distillers (El Dorado et al), however the still(s) used aren't disclosed. Just under 690 bottles are on offer. Other reviews... Molasses, treacle toffee and some smoky raisins come through as I keep sipping. There is a really complex array of spicy notes coming in and out of play as well. This is a very complex multi faceted spirit. It’s almost like a mixed Whisky and Rum in many ways. 60.9% Alc./Vol. 4 stars - fatrumpirate.com
- GUADELOUPE$199.00$199.00Bottle$2,388.00DozenABV: 58.6%
Not stated but this must have been sourced from the Damoiseau distillery on the Bellevue au Moule estate. Tasted from a 30ml sample, it is a stunningly pure, fruit-laden rum that gets better with each sniff, mixing it up with allspice, (clove, cinnamon), light molasses, liquorice bullets as well as fresher notes of dried mango, plantain and papaya, surging through the mouth in a fabulously creamy attack that adds vanilla, ginger bread, banana fritter and grilled pineapple. There is a sense of Damoiseau's typical elegance and freshness here (possibly because it is largely agricole?), and the ride continues with molasses cake, brown sugar and caney / tropical notes combining with perfect sweet-dry balance and controlled alcohol. A cask strength beauty that exudes Caribbean character, distilled in March 1998 and matured in Guadeloupe until 2007 then shipped to the UK, it feels like it has been bottled at the optimum time. 220 bottles are on offer globally at a natural strength of 58.6% with no added sugar or filtration. Very limited stocks.
Other reviews... Very balanced and soft on the nose. A very fruity rum with fresh orange, dried tropical fruits a beautiful caramel sweetness and a fine wood note. On the palate, the rum comes with a creamy sweetness with caramel and roasted tropical fruits. The rum is gentle and balanced. It adds more wood and tannins and grassy earthy notes to the finish, which blend in wonderfully and give the sweet chocolatey finish some spice... - rumratings.com
Notes from the bottlers... On the nose, ripe bananas with spiced ginger sweetness; molasses and muscovado sugar, milk chocolate marzipan with nutmeg fading to sandalwood and fruit jam notes. In the mouth, pleasingly sweet bananas and roasted pineapples; fruit jam, dried figs and ginger with a long lingering dry peppery finish. A delight for lovers of sherry matured whisky.
- GUYANA$180.00$180.00Bottle$2,160.00DozenABV: 59.6%
The 'real deal' in rum is on offer in a range of very limited single cask editions from UK bottler, 'Leith Stillroom'.
This one's sourced from Guyana's only operating rum producer. Located on the east bank of the Demerara River near Georgetown, all of the country's historical stills were consolidated at DDL's Diamond Distillery around 2000. Unfortunately, Leith's label doesn’t state which still (or stills) this particular bottling was created with. What we do know is that is was distilled in 2003, aged in an ex-Bourbon cask for 16 years and bottled all-natural. Rum purists can expect a full bodied and potent Demerara expression.Notes from the bottlers... On the nose, fruity with red cherries and dates: coconut with ripe bananas and sweet melon; apricots with a hint of coffee beans developing into oak spices. On the palette, bananas with pineapple rind; molasses and sticky brown sugar; bitter dark chocolate and cinnamon, bursting with dried tropical fruit peels and gently spiced. 59.6% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.
- BARBADOS$230.00$230.00Bottle$2,760.00DozenABV: 63.3%
A cask strength whopper from Barbados bottled by Leith Stillroom at 63.3%! Consistently praised as a producer of some of Barbados's finest rums, the Foursquare distillery is also the home of famous brands like Doorlys and R.L. Seale. This edition was distilled in 2005 and bottled in 2019 with no chill filtration or colouring.
Notes from the bottlers... On the nose, deliciously rich and malty with fragrant vanilla and Christmas cake. Toffee apple and coffee coming through with undertones of sense oak and buttery molasses. In the mouth, toasted oak with cigar and coffee bean bitterness developing into burnt notes of spiced fruit, thick treacle and a subtle note of camphor; a touch of smoke lingers with a long sweet finish.
- GUYANA$350.00$350.00Bottle$4,200.00DozenABV: 53.5%
Whichever way you spell it ('Morant' or 'Mourant'), anything this old from Guyana's legendary still is considered special, all the more so given that Diamond Estate is the only remaining rum producer in Guyana. Originally installed at the Port Mourant Estate (established in 1732), the nationalisation of the sugar industry lead to a centralisation of the various stills located around the country. It was first transferred to Uitvlugt, then in 2000 to its current home at Diamond Distillery along with all the other heritage stills and a modern multi-column set up. Built using Greenheart wood, a native to Guyana and mostly reserved for boat-building due to its ability to resist moisture, the wood is also well suited to distilling, stripping spirits of sulphites in the same manner that copper does. The Port Mourant and the Versailles single wooden pot still are the last of their kind in operation. The configuration of the former produces a typically heavy bodied and oily distillate, generally credited as being one of the definitive components in the old British Royal Navy blend. Nowadays, it's what makes El Dorado's brilliant 15 Year Old so tasty. Compared to the official cask strength release under El Dorado's 'single stills' label, the price of this considerably older Masam selection is very reasonable. Drawn from cask No. 26 and bottled at 53.5% Alc./Vol., 259 bottles are available globally. Nothing has been added nor has the liquid undergone chill filtration.
Notes from the importers... Nose: Tinned pineapple rings, damp grass, sugar cane juice, school bag fruit mix. Palate: Fermented fruit, graphite pencils, Chlorine, pear tarte tatin, pineapples. Finish: Custard finger bun.
- SOUTH AFRICA$180.00$180.00Bottle$2,160.00DozenABV: 60%
Interest in Mhoba's rums is gaining momentum globally. Nestled amongst the rolling hills of the Onderberg district of Mpumalanga, founder Robert Greaves initially intended to make a South African version of Cachaca. Years of experimentation led him beyond that vision. His rums have been summed up as "...well made, unmessed-with, cask strength, and very, very original." This edition is no exception. A sugarcane juice distillation aged for more than two years in large glass demijohns, virgin American oak staves cut and charred at the distillery were included in the vessels. The liquid was then transferred from these "glass barrels" to x-South African whisky casks for a finishing period.
Producing since 2015, Mhoba harvests the Nkomazi variety of sugar cane from a farm adjacent to the distillery. The cane is hand cut and pressed by an in-house mill. The cane juice (not molasses) is fermented in part by a local baking yeast as well as wild yeasts. Distillation is conducted with a pot still designed by Greaves. The particularity of this still is to favour a maximum reflux in order to develop heavy and aromatic distillates. 1000 bottles produced. 60% Alc./Vol.
- BARBADOS$399.00$399.00Bottle$4,788.00DozenABV: 55%
It's good to see other Caribbean producers following the lead of bottlers like Velier with unadulterated, high strength rums. Mount Gay's 'The Port Cask Expression' is the third release in the Master Blender Collection that began in 2018 with an unusual Islay whisky cask-finished rum. Once again, Trudiann Branker is behind the composition and this time she’s employed Port casks, primarily because they're rarely used at the distillery. In fact, at least one report suggests that this is the first time in Mount Gay’s long history that they’ve used Port casks for aging. Specifically, the rum is a combination of Port-aged and Port-finished liquid, distilled on a traditional column still and aged for five years in Tawny Port casks, blended with pot still rums, aged for 14 years, and then finished in Tawny Port casks for a final twelve months. The exact percentages of each aren’t specified. Apart from having nothing added, it also comes non-chill filtered for maximum flavour and mouthfeel. 6570 bottles are available globally. If you like your rum neat, this is recommended with a piece of dark chocolate. 55% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... The Port influence isn’t immediately evident on the nose. It’s rich with baking spice, some stewed orchard fruit, and plenty of classic rum esters from the pot still. As it opens, more dried red fruits emerge with a bit of marzipan in the mix, but on the whole, it’s not nearly as jammy or fruit forward as some other wine-finished rums I’ve encountered. The palate isn’t as restrained, but the Port is still not the only star of this show. The same sweet apple notes that dominated Trudiann’s first Master Blender release shine through with the Port overtaking some of the traditional vegetal sugarcane notes and injecting currants, juicy prunes, and black cherry in their stead. At cask strength, there’s still that classic Mount Gay dryness and spice, despite the syrupy and sweet Tawny addition. It’s a velvety and beautifully balanced rum that finishes as rich as it starts with the Port influence on full display in a lingering rinse of raisin and cherry juice. - drinkhacker.com
- BARBADOS$265.00$265.00Bottle$3,180.00DozenABV: 63%Weighing in at a hefty 63% ABV is this new limited edition from one of the Caribbean's top rum producers. A celebration of the 50th anniversary of the island's independence, it comes handsomely packaged in a timber presentation box, complete with booklet and notes written by master blender, Alen Smith. A blend of pot and column distilled molasses based rums, and originally released as a UK exclusive limited to 3000 bottles worldwide, we have received a tiny allocation. This rare gem has had more than one reviewer on the blogosphere summing it up as "easily the best Mount Gay rum yet." Extremely limited stocks.
- JAMAICA$139.99$139.99Bottle$1,679.88DozenABV: 47%
A follow-up Jamaican effort from the house of Velier, blended by Luca Gargano and bottled in October 2024. The result of 63 tropically aged barrels from three distilleries, at 47% Alc./Vol., this should be one of the more accessible high ester expressions released by this independent to date.
Other reviews... A blend of three ‘pot still’ Jamaicans. This ought to be compact, with each of the three distilleries naturally cancelling out some of the others’ character. Or not – let’s have a look, especially as nowhere is it stated that the three distilleries are present in equal proportions. Colour: gold. Nose: dry-cured ham with dried banana and pistachio oil, plus some new plastics à la supermarket bag – alas those were banned here some years ago, so I’m relying on memory. In any case this feels more like ‘low esters’ than ‘high esters'. With water: go easy with the water or it drifts off into rainwater and silt. Not a great swimmer, then, but that doesn’t mean anything. Mouth (neat): now we’re talking – excellent, young, a little rough, sharp and dry, but with notes of rambutan in syrup. Really. With water: some floral touches. Finish: not very long, truth be told. Comments: excellent stuff, though it does feel a little as though the components have somewhat cancelled each other out indeed, yielding a rather light rum. Light for a Jamaican that’s not Appleton, of course. Wait, is there Appleton in here? Either way, this is the gentlest of the high esters we’ve tried in recent months. 84 points - whiskyfun.com
- HAITI$189.99$189.99Bottle$2,279.88DozenABV: 54.1%
Readers who purchased the previous edition will be familiar with Luca Gargano's Papalin project, marking a return to the ancient tradition of rum blending, and with a transparency that's welcomed by rum purists. The inaugural release was a four year old, while the latest is a six year old with a twist - ex Sherry casks have been employed. The blend of seven barrels from three Clairin distilleries includes Sajous, Vaval and Casimir. Each was pot distilled and tropically aged for six years at the Port-au-Prince distillery in casks that previously held Oloroso sherry from the House of Lustau. As you'd expect from the provenance, this is a rum big on aromatics and complexity, ranging from rooty (ginger), medicinal (cough drop) and slightly camphoraceous notes through to more typical Clairin characteristics of vegetal sugar cane, toffee, curry, turmeric and cocoa. It should be blast for lovers of agricole or anyone intrigued by Caribbean styles of yesteryear. 54.1% Alc./Vol.
- JAMAICA$164.99$164.99Bottle$1,979.88DozenABV: 57%
"...stereotypical Jamaican wildness. Not as complex as Great House, but kicks the bejesus out of Hampden 8yo." - rumratings.com
Focussing on the Jamaica High Ester style, La Maison & Velier's new Papalin blend includes three Jamaican rums – Worthy Park (WPL mark, 60-120 gr/hlpa), Long Pond (STCE mark, 550-700 gr/hlpa) and Hampden (C<>H mark, 1,300-1,400 gr/hlpa), all pot still distilled, all of which were aged for a minimum of 5 years. Proportions are not provided, but these total up 63 barrels bottled at 57% with no additives. This rum has blown tasters away with its explosive, funky, tropical-fruit-heavy style; Yes, there are some notes of solvent and glue, but it doesn't veer into the overly industrial side. Grab it while you can. 57% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... Hey, it's about as subtle as as a car crash; punchy and wild, and to be honest, everything you'd expect of Jamaican high ester rocket fuel. And it is is good! Smell is super intense. Solvent and glue and sugar... Taste is intense! It's not as resolved as Hampden Great House, but hey, it's half the price! The difference is that this is darker, dirtier and less effervescent, but yet, it makes me smile; it's stereotypical Jamaican wildness. Not as complex as Great House, but kicks the bejesus out of Hampden 8yo, never mind anything out of Worthy Park. It's flavourful, and siper PUNCHY, and way better than anything else I can think of at this price. Overall: Pungent glue and volatiles, esters and sharp spice. This is Jamaican squared. Banana and pineapple and brown sugar and a touch of madness. - rumratings.com
...You won’t miss the “high ester” tag, which is explosive right at the outset. The nose of the rum is thick with overripe fruit, bubble gum, and cotton candy, just a few of the most iconic elements that define high-ester rum. From peaches to apricots to baked apples, there’s a full fruit salad here in the glass — and dripping in heavy syrup. The palate is plenty sweet and fruit-laden from the jump (not to mention hot on the tongue), but it settles into a groove in reasonably short order. Candied fruits, evoking fruitcake decor, are powerful on the tongue, though the rum finds more complex footing as notes of vanilla, milk chocolate, and some mint come quickly into focus. Still, this is “high ester” rum that never really shakes its notoriety, including plenty of bubble gum returning on the finish and a slick layer of white sugar syrup. Chewy peach rings linger on a lengthy fade-out.- drinkhacker.com
- HAITI$159.99$159.99Bottle$1,919.88DozenABV: 53.1%
Conceived by Velier's Luca Gargano, the Papalin project is dedicated to Caribbean styles of yesteryear, though specifically to rums of the late 1800s when Jamaican traders began to create blends from different distilleries. Myers’s and John Wray Nephew are two famous historical examples. In addition to exporting rums to Europe, they also produced their own blends, never specifying their origins. In the last seventy years an increasing number of European brands surfaced, then in the 1970s, distilleries began selling their own products. In light of all these changes, Papalin marks a return to the ancient tradition of rum blending, now with a transparency that will be welcomed by rum purists.
The label's first release was dedicated to Jamaica. The spotlight now shifts to Haiti, with a rum distilled from sugar cane juice, sourced from five different distilleries: Sajous, Vaval, Casimir, Distillerie de Port-au-Prince and Le Rocher. A total of 32 selected casks made the cut, all entirely aged in the tropical climate, with maturations taking place in ex-cognac, ex-bourbon and ex-whisky barrels. Technically, this is classified as a vatted rum. It's considered a versatile, accessible introduction to Clairin. 6000 bottles are available globally, and despite being young, its intriguing character has surprised many seasoned tasters. 53.1% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... "Wow, a complex clairin that is really fun! Great, soft nose. The 4 years of tropical maturation bring a great creaminess. Pear and fresh sugar cane are added. Alcohol very well integrated. A real insider tip!" - Rum-x.com
- Limit One per customer
Papalin Jamaica 7 Year Old Navy Strength Vatted Rum (700ml)JAMAICA$159.99$159.99Bottle$1,919.88DozenABV: 57.18%Here we have what is reported to be the first instalment in the Papalin series from Velier, capturing a middle-aged Jamaican blend at a bold Navy Strength of 57.18% ABV. While Luca Gargano is following the age-old practise of not specifying the provenance on the label, he has openly stated that the contents are from Hampden and Worthy Park, both aged at least seven years. The secret he's keeping is the ratio of the different rums used. Crafted from molasses via pot still distillation and combining estery, tropical fruit notes with funk in a vibrant, well rounded delivery, the dominance of Worthy Park is said to be notable. Both components were completely aged in their respective distilleries and bottled in June 2022. The outturn equates to 1200 bottles.
Other reviews... "Very nice jamaican blend. Both distilleries are well noted and through the finish you’ll get also some cherry notes. Very delicious, but i’m missing the complexity/full body. Also the finish is quite “short” and not so impressive. The 57% are integrated well." - rum-x.com
Notes from the bottlers... The nose is lively yet refined. Notes of vanilla, candied citrus fruit, nutmet, coffee and chamomile. On the palate the rum is rich and powerful. Cane sugar, salted caramel butter, pear, geranium and vegetal notes. The finish is long and rich with dandelion, lemon, vanilla, menthol, mineral and cocoa powder.
- JAMAICA$210.00$210.00Bottle$2,520.00DozenABV: 51.6%
According to at least one blogger, unlike the majority of Plantation's bottlings, this one is a drier style. Molasses based and produced at Jamaica's Clarendon Distillery via a pot still, it spent 18 years in bourbon casks followed by one year in 350 litre Ferrand casks that previously contained cognac from Borderies. These casks bring added sweetness along with rancio and flower notes. For those interested in the numbers, they are: 1251 g/HL AA; Esters : 256 g/hL AA and a final ABV of 51.6%. It comes labelled with Clarendon's 'MBK' marque accordingly.
Built in 1949, the Clarendon distillery is one of the Caribbean’s newer producers, built back in 1949 when it was running a single pot still built by Louisville, Kentucky coppersmiths, Vendome. Since 2009, it's been joined by a second, larger pot still of Indian manufacture and a modern five-column still. While National Rums of Jamaica has a 73% share, the remaining 23% is owned by their biggest customer, Diageo, who reserve the majority of Clarendon’s output for their Captain Morgan and Myers’s brands.
Notes from Plantation... Nose : Mango, passionfruit, Mirabelle plum, jam, heady flowers as lilac and lily of the valley, brandy tones. Palate: Very intense on the fruits, from acidulated plum to ripe pineapple and banana, light bitter almond and hint of caraway. Finale : Compote, flowers, aneth.
- FIJI$135.00$135.00Bottle$1,620.00DozenABV: 50.2%
Exchanges of cultures and knowledge, innumerable tastings and passionate discussions between Alexandre Gabriel and Liam F. Costello at the Rum Co. of Fiji resulted in this limited edition. Molasses based and distilled entirely in triple column stills, it was aged for 14 years in Bourbon casks in the moderate climate of the Fiji Islands, followed by a proprietary second maturation for twelve months in Ferrand French oak barrels in Cognac. Each step of the way, both the Fiji and the French teams worked hand in hand. The final outturn was 28 casks at 50.2% Alc./Vol with an ester count of 99.1 g/hL AA.
Notes from Plantation... Nose : Intense, it starts on a fruity and spicy profile with/ cooked apple and prune, cinnamon and hints of galangal. It then evolves on golden syrup, pear, vanilla, and nutmeg. Empty glass : Gingerbread, cocoa, and prune. Palate : Mellow, it follows the nose with fudge milk chocolate, nuts, licorice an ginger. Finish : Lingering, on allspice, golden syrup, and galangal.
- JAMAICA$135.00$135.00Bottle$1,620.00DozenABV: 49.5%
If you haven’t tried proper Jamaican rum before, then start here. This all-natural offering from Plantation promises a great example of what Jamaica does best: A high ester, high strength combination of intense fruit plus a little 'funk', rounded off by secondary notes from Ferrand's double maturation. Molasses based and produced at Jamaica's Clarendon Distillery in a Double Retort Vendome Pot Still, it was tropically aged for 16 years in 200 litre Bourbon casks followed by a twelve month period in 350 litre Ferrand x-cognac casks. The final ester count was 422 g/hL AA , with the outturn totalling 29 casks.
Notes from Plantation... Pronounced fresh, fruity and encaustic notes mixed with passion fruit and green banana, elegant woody notes, prune, vanilla with bitter almond and fresh fig. Palate : Dry and long with mango, candied fruit, date and prune finishing on floral notes. Finish : Pepper, red berry ending on vanilla and banana flambee. A great sipping rum. 49.5% Alc./Vol.
- BARBADOS$120.00$120.00Bottle$1,440.00DozenABV: 51.1%Only 24 casks were made of this one-time-only rum, with a fraction of the outturn making it to Australia. A blend of column still and pot still molasses-based rums distilled in 2011 at the West Indies Rum Distillery (est.1893) on Barbados, it was filled into Bourbon casks and aged on site at Brighton Beach for four and a half years. From there it was shipped to Château de Bonbonnet in France – the home of Cognac masters Maison Ferrand – where it spent another four and a half years in their casks gaining further complexity in the cooler European climate. It was finally bottled as a 9 year old at 51.1% with an ester count of 120 g/hL AA.
Notes from Plantation... It opens with woody and spicy notes with cinnamon, pepper and ginger, then it becomes fruitier with raisins, prune and citrus peel with hazelnut and almond in the background. Palate : Gentle at first and very fruity on raisins and walnut, it then becomes stronger and dryer with tons of chocolate, caramel, vanilla and nutmeg with some dried flowers and cooked fruits and citrus peel building up sip after sip. Finish : Long on prunes, nuts, chocolate and pepper.
- JAMAICA$365.00$365.00Bottle$4,380.00DozenABV: 56.2%The third release in Plantation's 'Extreme' range is actually two rums: Both come from the Long Pond Distillery in Jamaica. Both were distilled in 1996 and spent 21 years maturing in x bourbon barrels before Ferrand’s traditional finishing in cognac casks in France. Labelled ITP and HJC respectively, they're the result of two slightly different 'recipes'. In Jamaica, distilleries classify rum based on the content of 'esters' post distillation (the aromatic chemical compounds created during fermentation. These determine how heavy the rum is). For Long Pond, their ITP is the slightly lighter of the two marques - having said that, both are described as "full-bodied and funky", with the HJC showing all-round better balance, fermented for three weeks with an ester count of 345 g/hl AA. In July 2018 there was a large fire at Long Pond Distillery and over 65,000 litres of rum were destroyed. The historic distillery is still standing, but it may be some time before we see more like these. Just over 2000 bottles of each were made for the worldwide market. We have a tiny allocation so collectors will be scrambling for the pair. Plantation's Extreme series is a collection of limited-edition rums that are "simply perfect in their natural state". The Master Blender adds, "Sometimes we find a rum barrel in our cellar that stands alone for its uniqueness of taste which can only be described as “extreme”. This cask is then set aside and bottled for its sheer exquisite essence, resulting in a very limited edition of what we call Plantation Extreme."
- GUYANA$299.00$299.00Bottle$3,588.00DozenABV: 59.7%Plantation's Extreme series is a collection of limited-edition rums that are "simply perfect in their natural state". The Master Blender adds, "Sometimes we find a rum barrel in our cellar that stands alone for its uniqueness of taste which can only be described as “extreme”. This cask is then set aside and bottled for its sheer exquisite essence, resulting in a very limited edition of what we call Plantation Extreme." Distilled in March 1999 and bottled in September 2017 with a total outturn of 1000 bottles, this rum was created at Guyana's now-dismantled Uitvlugt distillery in March 1999 and then aged in bourbon casks for 15 years, before three further years of maturation in Cognac casks. While Uitvlugt continues to operate as a sugar refinery and producer of molasses, the equipment used for rum production reportedly ceased operation in 2000. Not surprisingly, the rums have become quite collectible. 59.7% Alc./Vol. Very limited allocation.
- JAMAICA$365.00$365.00Bottle$4,380.00DozenABV: 54.8%The third release in Plantation's 'Extreme' range is actually two rums: Both come from the Long Pond Distillery in Jamaica. Both were distilled in 1996 and spent 21 years maturing in x bourbon barrels before Ferrand’s traditional finishing in cognac casks in France. Labelled ITP and HJC respectively, they're the result of two slightly different 'recipes'. In Jamaica, distilleries classify rum based on the content of 'esters' post distillation (the aromatic chemical compounds created during fermentation. These determine how heavy the rum is). For Long Pond, their ITP is the slightly lighter of the two marques - having said that, both are described as "full-bodied and funky", with the ITP being the fruitier of the two, fermented for three weeks with an ester count of 386 g/hl AA. In July 2018 there was a large fire at Long Pond Distillery and over 65,000 litres of rum were destroyed. The historic distillery is still standing, but it may be some time before we see more like these. Just over 2000 bottles of each were made for the worldwide market. We have a tiny allocation so collectors will be scrambling for the pair. Plantation's Extreme series is a collection of limited-edition rums that are "simply perfect in their natural state". The Master Blender adds, "Sometimes we find a rum barrel in our cellar that stands alone for its uniqueness of taste which can only be described as “extreme”. This cask is then set aside and bottled for its sheer exquisite essence, resulting in a very limited edition of what we call Plantation Extreme."
- Caribbean$140.00$140.00Bottle$1,680.00DozenABV: 69%
A blend of rums from Barbados, Guyana and Jamaica in the overproof dark style, replacing Plantation’s 'Original Dark Overproof' which was a Trinidad exclusive. "O.F.T.D." stands for "Old Fashioned Traditional Dark". In its conception, Alexandre Gabriel, Master Blender for Plantation Rum, brought together six rum luminaries - Jeff "Beachbum" Berry from Latitude 29, Martin Cate from Smuggler's Cove, Paul McFadyen from Trailer Happiness, Paul McGee from Lost Lake, Scotty Schuder from Dirty Dick, and Dave Wondrich, cocktail historian extraordinaire. After many tasting and blending sessions they formulated a rum ideally suited for use in top-shelf Tiki and tropical cocktails.
Distinguished by its deep topaz colour and super aromatics, this powerhouse is clearly made for boozy tropical libations and bar circuits. Banana fritter, dried mango, dates and molasses are up front with air contact adding pipe tobacco, balsa wood and dark chocolate. The intensely caney / grassy entry cranks up with flavours of raw sugar, liquorice strap, fruit mince pie and all-spice, capping off a surprisingly well balanced overproof expression with profound depth and staying power. Mix with abandon, but OFTD stands up as a drink in its own right. 69% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... Some of the world’s best rums are being made by a man who cut his teeth on Cognac, Alexandre Gabriel, owner of Maison Ferrand. Not long after reviving that brandy house, Gabriel turned his attention to rum, creating Plantation and endowing it with a Cognac distiller’s sense of balance, elegance and variety. OFTD (Old-Fashioned Traditional Dark), created with input from rum specialists including cocktail historian David Wondrich and tiki expert Martin Cate, is a blockbuster. Earlier Plantation dark rums had relied exclusively on Trinidadian stocks, but OFTD instead blends Jamaican rum’s oily funk with Guyana’s focused intensity and Barbados’s lithe grace—all in a powerhouse package at 138 proof. This is a mixing rum that will stand up to even the stoutest of punches. - wineandspiritsmagazine.com
Summing up, the Plantation Old Fashioned Traditional Dark is a deserved yet unusual — perhaps even controversial — entry to the Key Rums series. It is a multi-country blend, not something that showcases a certain country. Yes, it was deliberately created to do only one thing, and therefore its value as an all-round consumer drink is somewhat circumscribed; yes it’s really strong, and sure…in that segment it stays and plays. Yet as I have suggested here, it has qualities over and above all that. It supercedes the modest aims of its creators, to the point where it actually can stand by itself. It remains, nearly a decade after its introduction, one of the most reviewed, commented on and widespread rums around and if its shine is less now than it was when first introduced and now that it has stiffer competition, there is no reason to doubt either its many uses or availability. It remains, for all its parent company’s woes, an incredibly popular and in-use bar staple and drinking adjunct to this day. It demonstrates, if nothing else, how well the Caribbean distillates work with each other in a way that is not often seen. And that’s no mean accomplishment for any rum – especially one made by this outfit – to claim. One can only ask why more of the company’s rums don’t adhere to its philosophy. - thelonecaner.com
- TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO$110.00$110.00Bottle$1,320.00DozenABV: 73%Tasting note: Brassy gold. Packed and expressive with scents of cornflake honey crackles, golden syrup and thick vanilla amid the vapoury spirit. Second pass dries the bouquet offering hints of banana fritter, marmalade and damar varnish. Rich and creamy entry; more biitersweet as the alcoholic attack strikes mid palate. Super intense cocoa, vanilla, then bitter toffee and banana cake enter as the tongue nipping spices retreat. Surprisingly controlled for all the spirit here. Long and delicious. A massive statement in Rum. 73% Alc./Vol.
- HAITI$189.99$189.99Bottle$2,279.88DozenABV: 52%
Reported to be a collaboration between the Linge family of Berling, direct descendants of a famous Haitian rum dynasty (Barbancourt), and La Maison & Velier, Providence represents the first aged rum of the Distillerie de Port-au-Prince. Based on traditional methods, it's produced using syrup from an ancestral Cristalline sugar cane variety from the fields of Michel Sajous, located in Saint-Michel de l’Attalaye, 150 kilometers north of the capital. Fermentation is carried out using selected yeasts and dunder from previous distillations, allowing for the development of impressive aromatic complexity. The must obtained after fermentation is distilled in two stages in a copper still, heated in a bain-marie, designed by German boilermaker Muller. The final distillate was matured exclusively in ex-Caroni rum casks for three years and then reduced to 52% before bottling. The aroma is intense, sweet yet breezy with a frail dried fruit character similar to some sherried single malts. The palate has a striking purity and naturalness. Creamy-yet-fresh, with suggestions of tropical fruits and rock candy countered by caney / grassy notes that become a signature flourish. Fades with gentle gingery warmth and a lick of fruit. A relaxed, medium-bodied and very accessible example of unadulterated high-strength rum, dangerously drinkable uncut! 52% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.
Other reviews... This was the odd one out and also a huge surprise. Considering the price tag you get a lot for your money. I found out that it needed to rest for at least 15 minutes and at 30 minutes the flavours just come at you. Intense and fruity with nice spices and cane. I really like the floral note from nose to finish and even the empty glass was wonderful after a while. - Kevin Sorensen, Rum-x.com
Notes from the producers... Nose: Rich and concentrated. Camphor, powdery, mimosa, cane sugar, vanilla, lime blossom and flambeed banana. Palate: Lively and distinguished. Fresh cane juice, lemon, resin, roasted pineapple, ginger and cinnamon. Finish: Long and silky. Rose petals, oriental notes, pastry cream, praline, tobacco, coffee and medicinal notes.
- Limit One per customer
1991 Rasta Morris Uitvlugt Distillery Single Cask 26 Year Old Cask Strength Guyana Rum (700ml)GUYANA$499.00$499.00Bottle$5,988.00DozenABV: 58.8%A very desirable Uitvlugt, bottled by Belgian indie, Bert Bruyneel (of Asta Morris fame) who, not content with whisky, is constantly on the look out for high quality, tasty rums. In order to accommodate the category he wasted no time and started a new label - 'Rasta Morris'. The outturn from this cask was 216 bottles with only a small parcel making its way to Australia.
Long closed and now highly collectable, derived from the Dutch for ‘out-flow’ or “owt-flut”, Uitvlugt is a village on the coast of Guyana, the name of a river, and most importantly, the name bestowed to a legendary South American distillery. Established around 1750, Uitvlugt's double wooden pot stills were famous for producing a heavier style of rum. However, like many rum regions through the 19th and 20th centuries, production declined in Guyana. The equipment at Uitvlugt was mothballed around 2000, and the acclaimed Diamond Distillery is now the custodian of its historical stills. 58.8% Alc./Vol.
- Victoria, AUSTRALIAReduced from
$99.99$69.99$69.99Bottle$839.88DozenABV: 57%Born in Fitzroy and finished by hand, this small batch premium spiced rum is the essence of The Rum Diary Bar. It's taken to the next level in this Navy Strength edition that incorporates Lapsang Souchong, smoked brown cardamom and black pepper to create a smoky, earthen and slightly salty finish. Other reviews... Spicy fruit on the nose. Same continues in the flavour finishing medium long. Well balanced throughout.
Bronze Medal, International Rum Awards 2019 - JAMAICA$169.99$169.99Bottle$2,039.88DozenABV: 55%
300 bottles only of this natural strength, single cask beauty were bottled exclusively for an Australian Rum Club. Distilled from molasses in 2016 using a traditional double retort pot still at the award winning Worthy Park Estate in Lluidas Vale, Jamaica, this funky and flavourful expression spent 8 years in a single American Oak cask, first at origin in tropical Jamaica and then sent to Europe to undergo continental aging. Bottled in 2024 at 55% Alc./Vol. lends to its full bodied and complex profile that includes notes of banana, pineapple, menthol, nutmeg, leather, oak & creme brulee. Perfect to sip neat, or add to a big bold cocktail.
- JAMAICA$550.00$550.00Bottle$6,600.00DozenABV: 54.5%Tasting note: [10ml sample] A rum that shows what can happen when careful and superior selection leave their mark: Pure magic. Still caney, profoundly rum-like and astoundingly fresh, the flavours are so beautifully arranged with an orchestral control to the point where language seems pointless. Samaroli demonstrates there are still amazing rums out there to be found, often flying beneath the radar. This is one, with a saturating, sensory attack that ascends two or three octaves before coming back to earth. For sheer length alone, it beats almost any other wood aged spirit. The aftertaste continues well beyond five minutes. One only available. Built in 1750 and sought after for its powerful, estery, pot-distilled spirit, the Hampden estate is renowned for possessing the best cane lands in Jamaica producing the highest tonne sugar from tonne cane milled. 54.5% Alc./Vol.
- VIETNAM$130.00$130.00Bottle$1,560.00DozenABV: 54%
A traditional 'French Rhum Agricole' from the tropical haven of Vietnam. Sampan Overproof has won a bunch of awards from various shows held around the world …Gold, Double Gold, Best of Region and many more. As a style, it's reported to be comparable to unaged Clairin or Paranubes.
Other reviews... The Sampan Vietnamese Rhum is made by the Distillerie d’Indochine: and Antoine Pourcuitte, a long haired Frenchman who seems to be channelling Fabio and who lives in Vietnam, is the man who bootstrapped his desire to make good rums into a business that combines a small hotel and bar close to the beach with a distillery he pretty much built himself (officially it opened for business in late 2018). This newly constructed establishment, which produces one of those excellent white rhums which must be causing the French islands conniption fits, is his brainchild… and it can take its place proudly in the league of small and new fast moving ops who are taking a pure rhum approach to distillation in Asia.... it doesn’t sink on the taste, but follows smoothly on from what had been discerned on the nose. Here, we didn’t just have a few olives, but what seemed like a whole grove of them. Again it tasted dirty, loamy, and also pungent, with initially clear notes of sweet sugar cane juice and sweet yellow corn, to which are added some lemon sherbet, vanilla and aromatic light fruits (pears, watermelon, strawberries) plus herbs – dill and basil. Soft and lightly sweet, and there’s a background hint of anise as well, or licorice, really nice. Throughout the tasting it stays firm and assertive on the tongue, with a near silky mouthfeel leading to an exit that is pleasantly long lasting and with closing notes of fruits, vanilla, coconut water, and breakfast spices. This is a really nice white rhum – it married the freshness of an agricole with the slight complexity of an entry level vieux and the balance between the various elements was very nicely handled. That pungent opening clearly makes the case that even with the resting period, it was an unaged rhum, something like the Sajous, the Paranubes, A1710, Toucan, Barbosa Grogue, HSE Parcellaire or others of that kind – I liked it a lot, and if it didn’t win any medals, I firmly believe it should at least win a few wallets. - thelonecaner.com
...Nose: Man, there is just SO MUCH going on in the nose. There’s a real fresh and lively quality to it as well. There’s cut grass and floral notes, there’s sweet candy floss and liquorice all sorts, but also salty olives. Freshly cut cane, earthy petrichor and even some citrus swirls by. Palate: Not as sweet as it smells, but certainly not dry, those fresh earthy notes are still there, I get some passionfruit, pineapple and pomegranate as well, and there’s also a sort of yeasty vibe going on (like fresh bread dough). What is surprising is how little pepper or heat there is at 54%. Finish: Oddly enough I get a bit of a ‘woody’ note in the finish, more of those earthy and sweet notes chase each other around, and there’s also some aniseed humbugs right at the last. - rumtribe.com.au
- JAMAICA$280.00$280.00Bottle$3,360.00DozenABV: 69.1%These fascinating Scheer-Velier bottlings were originally released as comparison sets (Tropical and Contintental aged bottlings). The concept was to showcase the differences between Continental versus Tropical aging. As the name suggests, they were created in collaboration between Dutch independent bottler 'Scheer', and Master Blender and renowned rum guardian and advocate Luca Gargano of Velier. Aged entirely in Jamaica's tropical climate, this expression blends two casks distilled in 2008 and ten casks distilled in 2007. Part of the Wedderburn category of rums produced by the Monymusk-Clarendon distillery, it comes with an ester content of 315.6 grams per hectolitre of pure alcohol. Described as "Extreme and uncompromising" with a massive ABV, expect something quite special for the hard core rum lover. 69.1% Alc./Vol.
- JAMAICAReduced from
$250.00$199.99$199.99Bottle$2,399.88DozenABV: 63.9%These fascinating Scheer-Velier bottlings were originally released as comparison sets (Tropical and Contintental aged bottlings). The concept was to showcase the differences between Continental versus Tropical aging. As the name suggests, they were created in collaboration between Dutch independent bottler 'Scheer', and Master Blender and renowned rum guardian and advocate Luca Gargano of Velier. Totally aged in Europe, the contintental version was produced from a blend of two casks filled in 2008 and 10 casks filled in 2007. With an end result having an ester content of 243.5 grams per hectolitre of pure alcohol, these are big rums with strong personalities. Give this Wedderburn Monymusk plenty of time to open up. 63.9% Alc./Vol. - JAMAICA$300.00$300.00Bottle$3,600.00DozenABV: 69.7%These fascinating Scheer-Velier bottlings were originally released as comparison sets (Tropical and Contintental aged bottlings). The concept was to showcase the differences between Continental versus Tropical aging. As the name suggests, they were created in collaboration between Dutch independent bottler 'Scheer', and Master Blender and renowned rum guardian and advocate Luca Gargano of Velier. Aged entirely in tropical Jamaica and composed of a blend of ten casks distilled in 2006, two casks distilled in 2004 and four casks distilled in 2002, this is part of the Plummer (EMB) category of rums produced by Monymusk distillery. With an ester content of 324.5 grams per hectolitre of pure alcohol, expect a complex, extroverted and deliciously generous rum. 69.7% Alc./Vol.
- JAMAICA$260.00$260.00Bottle$3,120.00DozenABV: 64.8%These fascinating Scheer-Velier bottlings were originally released as comparison sets (Tropical and Contintental aged bottlings). The concept was to showcase the differences between Continental versus Tropical aging. As the name suggests, they were created in collaboration between Dutch independent bottler 'Scheer', and Master Blender and renowned rum guardian and advocate Luca Gargano of Velier. Produced from a blend of twelve casks distilled in 2004 aged entirely in a continental climate in Europe, this is part of the Plummer (EMB) category of rums produced by the Monymusk distillery. Weighing in with an ester content of 129.9 grams per hectolitre of pure alcohol. 64.8% Alc./Vol.
- GUYANA$320.00$320.00Bottle$3,840.00DozenABV: 50.1%
Distilled in 1999 and bottled in 2023, this rare edition from the now dismantled Uitvlugt Distillery in Guyana will be prized by collectors as one of the last from the original set up. Uitvlugt continues to operate today as a sugar refinery and producer of molasses, however the equipment used for rum production reportedly ceased operation in 2000 (or at the end of 1999, depending on your sources). The column still was moved to the Diamond distillery, home of the exceptional El Dorado rums. Distilled in February 1999, this indie release is said to showcase the distinct, sometimes "briny" or "olive-y" characteristics of the original Uitvlugt stills, alongside notes of guava paste, dried mango, abundant black liquorice and dark roasted coffee. 219 bottles were drawn from a second fill Bourbon hogshead. 50.1% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.
