FOURSQUARE 12 YEARS OLD 48% - V&B

The Foursquare 12 Years Old at 48% proof is a true representation of Bajan rum excellence, encapsulating the finest craftsmanship and quintessential tropical aging which only Barbados can offer. This extraordinary spirit is not just a testament to the aging process but also to the masterful blend of traditional techniques adhered to by one of the most respected distilleries in the Caribbean, Foursquare.

Foursquare Distillery, the birthplace of this exquisite rum, has long been esteemed for its commitment to unadulterated, authentic rum production. Located in Barbados, which is often considered the birthplace of rum, Foursquare stands out for integrating both pot and column distillation methods. This distinctive combination harnesses the robust flavors yielded from pot stills, along with the refined, smoother spirits produced by column stills, offering a rum that is rich, complex, and nuanced.

The aging process of this rum is equally noteworthy. Matured for 12 years under the tropical climate of Barbados, the interaction between the rum and the barrel is accelerated due to the intense heat and humidity. This tropical aging imbues the rum with an intensified depth and enriched flavors much quicker than would be seen in cooler climates. The outcome is a rum that embodies a maturity and taste profile that typically requires a longer aging period in temperate conditions.

A crucial part of this 12-year journey is the cask selection. The Foursquare 12 Years Old is aged in ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks, which impart distinctive character and depth to the final spirit. The ex-bourbon barrels contribute classic notes of vanilla, coconut, and a subtle sweet underpinning, typically associated with American white oak. The influence of the ex-sherry casks introduces richer and more vibrant notes, including dried fruits, nuttiness, and a complex sweetness that balances the spirit's profile.

The use of molasses as a base for this rum is pivotal. Molasses, a dense, sweet by-product derived from sugar cane, provides a robust foundation that supports the deep, rich flavors that are developed through the distillation and aging process. The choice of molasses lends the rum a distinctive sweetness and body that is both inviting and rewarding to the palate.

What truly sets the Foursquare 12 Years Old apart is its uncompromising strength and body. Bottled at 48% alcohol by volume, this rum provides a bold, full-bodied experience while maintaining a sophisticated smoothness that allows for both neat sipping and cocktail creation. This versatile strength ensures that the intricate flavors developed over twelve years of aging are perfectly showcased, not overwhelmed.

The official bottler for this product, akin to its distillery, upholds a reputation for quality and integrity. Choosing an official bottler guarantees that the rum is presented to the market meeting the highest standards set by Foursquare, reflecting the brand's respected image and the product's promised quality.

Upon tasting, rum enthusiasts and novices alike will discover layers of flavor, initially greeted by the sweet, spicy aroma that later unfolds into a symphony of complex tastes including caramel, spices, and a lingering finish of sherry-influenced richness. Each sip brings a fresh revelation of flavors, reflecting the skilled craftsmanship and heritage of Foursquare distillery.

The Foursquare 12 Years Old is, therefore, more than just a spirit. It is a finely crafted portrait of Barbadian rum-making, emphasizing the harmony between tradition, climate, and innovation. For anyone looking to delve into the world of premium rums, or expand their collection, this offering is not merely a choice, but a cornerstone reflecting the prestige and mastery inherent to Foursquare’s renowned rum-making legacy.