BEENLEIGH 2017 46% FLOOD RUM - 2022 RELEASE

The **Beenleigh 2017 46% Flood Rum - 2022 Release** stands as a distinctive testament to the resilience and craftsmanship of one of Australia's oldest and most revered rum distilleries. This unique expression, distilled in 2017, was released in 2022, and is a fascinating showcase of **Beenleigh's** commitment to exceptional rum-making, underscored by its adaptation to the unique climatic challenges of its environment.

**Beenleigh Distillery**, which can trace its roots back to 1884, is not only the oldest registered distillery in Australia but also remains one of the few with a setup capable of using both pot and column still distillation methods. It's located in the heart of Queensland, which provides a tropical climate that significantly influences the aging process of the rum. The heat and humidity of this regional climate accelerate the interaction between the wood of the cask and the distilled rum, allowing for a faster maturation that imbues the rum with rich and complex flavors that would take longer to develop under more temperate conditions.

This particular release, dubbed the **"Flood Rum,"** commemorates an event of resilience. In 2017, the area around Beenleigh experienced significant flooding, a challenging event that nonetheless saw the distillery emerge and continue to produce its famed spirits. The floods added an extra layer to the story of this rum, as the distillery persevered through and continued crafting their product despite these natural adversities.

The **2017 Vintage** utilizes molasses as its base, a classic choice that imparts a deep, rich sweetness providing the foundational flavor for this rum. The dual distillation process through both pot and column still methods enriches its complexity. This technique combines the robust and flavorful heavy rums produced by the pot still with the lighter, cleaner profiles from the column still, resulting in a balanced, layered final product.

Aged exclusively in ex-bourbon casks, the choice of this type of cask is crucial as it contributes subtle vanilla tones and sweet spices that complement the inherent sweetness of the molasses. The bourbon caskets also impart a delightful woody undertone and a golden amber color to the rum.

Bottled at 46% strength, which is slightly higher than typical commercial rums, this decision enhances the flavor intensity—a perfect choice to elevate its rich and intricate flavor profile. The packaging, with its distinctively designed 70cl bottle, echoes the premium nature of this limited edition release, with only 1000 bottles available, making it a rare collector's item or a special treat for rum enthusiasts.

The **Official Bottler** label ensures that every process, from distillation to bottling, is overseen with the highest standards maintained by Beenleigh itself, thus preserving the purity and unique character of their brand.

In conclusion, the **Beenleigh 2017 46% Flood Rum** is not just any ordinary rum; it is a narrative of perseverance, a reflection of historical distillation practices, and a celebration of tropical aging, all distilled into a bottle that carries with it stories of legacy and resilience. It’s an exemplar release that captures the essence of Australian rum, perfect for anyone looking to explore a rich, historical, and flavorfully complex spirit.