Foursquare 2011 (Mark XXIV) 12 Year Single Blended Rum
Experience the pinnacle of Barbadian rum craftsmanship with Foursquare 2011 (Mark XXIV), the 24th release in the revered Exceptional Cask Series. This magnificent 12-year-old Single Blended Rum is a testament to the uncompromising principles of Master Distiller Richard Seale and the Foursquare Rum Distillery. Bottled at a robust cask strength and aged entirely in ex-bourbon barrels, this is a pure, unadulterated expression of rum that has captivated connoisseurs worldwide. Secure this highly sought-after collector's item through our preferred online retail partner, Nestor Liquor.
This vintage release, distilled in 2011 and aged for 12 years in the tropical climate of Barbados, showcases the distillery's signature style.It is a masterful blend of rums from Foursquare's traditional twin column Coffey still and their artisanal double retort pot still.Presented with no added sugar, color, or other additives, and non-chill filtered, Foursquare 2011 is an authentic and powerful rum experience.
Key Specifications:
Product: Foursquare 2011 | Exceptional Cask Selection Mark XXIV
Classification: Single Blended Rum (A blend of pot still and column still rums from a single distillery)
Age: 12 Years (Tropical Aging)
Cask Maturation: A combination of 1st, 2nd, and 3rd fill ex-bourbon barrels
Proof | ABV: 120 Proof | 60% ABV
Distillery: Foursquare Rum Distillery, St. Philip, Barbados
Additives:None (No added color, sugar, or flavorings)
Filtration: Non-Chill Filtered
Brand History: The Standard for Rum Authenticity
The Foursquare Rum Distillery, operating on a historic sugar plantation site, is a beacon of quality and integrity in the spirits world. The Seale family, with roots in Barbadian rum dating back to the 1920s, re-established the distillery in 1996. Today, fourth-generation Master Distiller Richard Seale is a global icon for his advocacy of rum transparency. He champions authentic production methods, vehemently opposing the undeclared additives common in the industry. The Exceptional Cask Series is Seale's personal selection of rare and unique offerings, released only when he feels they are of outstanding quality, making each release a highly anticipated event. To learn more about their purist philosophy, one can explore dedicated spirits blogs and rum appreciation forums.
Tasting Notes: A Rich and Complex Expression
Foursquare 2011 is celebrated for its remarkable depth and balance, even at a high proof:
Nose: A complex and inviting bouquet of caramelized grapefruit, dark cocoa, and butterscotch, which evolves to reveal notes of overripe pineapple, clove, allspice, and a deep molasses character.
Palate: The palate is big, expressive, and unctuous. Rich molasses and baking spice notes lead, complemented by tropical fruits and dried berries. A subtle drying characteristic emerges with notes of black tea and citrus peel, creating a beautiful tension.
Finish:The finish is exceptionally long, dry, and complex, with lingering notes of subtle tannins, citrus, and spice that invite contemplation.
Why Foursquare 2011 is a Must-Have Spirit:
Uncompromising Purity: Crafted with absolutely no added sugar, color, or other additives, this is rum in its purest form, as championed by Richard Seale.
Exceptional Tropical Aging: 12 years of maturation entirely in the tropical climate of Barbados imparts a complexity and maturity that far surpasses its age statement.
The Bourbon Lover's Rum: The exclusive use of ex-bourbon barrels creates a profile rich with caramel, vanilla, and toasted oak, making it a perfect entry point for bourbon drinkers looking to explore premium rum.
A Collector's Prize: As Mark XXIV in the highly coveted Exceptional Cask Series, this 2011 vintage is a limited release that is instantly collectible and sought after by spirits lovers worldwide.
A True Sipping Experience: Despite its 120 proof, this rum is celebrated for its incredible balance and integration, rewarding slow, contemplative sipping.
Foursquare 2011 is not just rum; it is a statement of authenticity, craftsmanship, and the extraordinary potential of pure, unadulterated spirit.Contact Nestor Liquor to inquire about this pinnacle of Barbadian rum.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: What does "Single Blended Rum" mean?
A: According to the Gargano Classification system, a "Single Blended Rum" is a blend of rums from a single distillery that are distilled using both traditional pot stills and column stills. This method creates a complex rum with the heavy, flavorful character of pot still rum and the lighter, elegant character of column still rum.
Q: What does tropical aging do to the rum?
A: Aging in a tropical climate like Barbados significantly accelerates the maturation process. The high heat and humidity increase the interaction between the spirit and the oak barrels, leading to a much faster development of complex flavors and a higher rate of evaporation (the "angel's share"). A 12-year-old tropically aged rum often exhibits a maturity comparable to a spirit aged much longer in a cooler climate.
Q: What is the Foursquare Exceptional Cask Series?
A: The Exceptional Cask Series (ECS) are limited, one-of-a-kind releases hand-selected by Master Distiller Richard Seale. They represent his personal projects and are only bottled when he feels they are of exceptional quality, often showcasing unique approaches to blending and maturation.
Q: How can a 120-proof rum be so well-regarded for sipping?
A: The balance in a high-proof spirit like Foursquare 2011 comes from expert distillation, patient aging, and masterful blending. The long maturation period integrates the alcohol with the flavors from the cask, creating a rich, oily mouthfeel and a finish that is warm and flavorful rather than harsh or overly alcoholic.
Q: How should I drink Foursquare 2011?
A: This is a complex sipping rum meant to be savored. It is best enjoyed neat in a proper tasting glass (like a Glencairn). After an initial taste, you might add a few drops of water to slightly lower the proof and see how the aromas and flavors evolve.
Q: Where can I purchase Foursquare 2011?
A: This is a highly allocated and limited release. We recommend contacting our preferred retail partner, Nestor Liquor, to inquire about their inventory and availability.