Discover the Foursquare Distillery 12 Years Old 2011 Exceptional Cask Selection Mark XXIV—an award-winning fine Barbados Single Blended Rum, meticulously aged for 12 years in ex-bourbon barrels and bottled at a bold 60% ABV for unrivaled depth and intensity. This limited-edition rum unfolds with a rich, evolving aroma of woody notes, vanilla, and vibrant tropical fruits, layered with hints of spice, caramelized pineapple, coconut, and dark cocoa for a truly complex sensory journey. Praised for its harmonious balance, creamy mouthfeel, and lingering sweetness, the Mark XXIV is the ultimate choice for collectors and connoisseurs seeking an exceptional cask-strength Barbadian rum that captures the essence of Foursquare’s artisanal craftsmanship.
Process & Profile
This distinguished single blended rum begins with quality molasses, fermented and then distilled using Foursquare's signature combination of a double retort pot still and twin column still. This dual distillation approach creates a perfect harmony of complexity and refinement in the spirit. Following distillation, the rum was aged for a full 12 years in ex-bourbon barrels, utilizing a careful selection of first, second, and third-fill casks. What truly sets this expression apart is its authenticity—distilled, matured, blended, and bottled entirely in Barbados under the watchful eye of Master Distiller and Blender Richard Seale. No color, sugar, additives, or filtration techniques are employed, delivering a genuine rum experience that speaks to both tradition and excellence.
Tasting Notes
Nose: The 2011 vintage greets with an inviting bouquet of citrus and florals, complemented by warming cardamom, pipe tobacco, caramel, and rich brown butter. Additional layers of caramelized grapefruit, dark cocoa, butterscotch, and overripe pineapple create a complex and enticing aromatic profile.
Palate: The mouthfeel is substantial and viscous, coating the palate with a symphony of flavors including bright citrus, warming cinnamon, allspice, juicy plums, decadent dark chocolate fudge brownie, and roasted nuts. The palate expands further with tropical fruit notes, dried berries, black tea, and citrus peel.
Finish: Long, satisfying and pleasantly dry, allowing the complexity of flavors to linger and evolve.
What Makes It Special
The Mark XXIV release continues Foursquare's tradition of excellence within their highly sought-after Exceptional Cask Series. While the distillery experiments with various cask finishes, these vintage-dated, cask-strength, purely ex-bourbon releases truly showcase the distinctive signature character of Foursquare. Richard Seale, the mastermind behind Foursquare, has been a tireless advocate not just for Barbados rum but for authentic, character-driven rum production worldwide. The 2011 vintage stands as a testament to this philosophy, offering rum enthusiasts a pure expression free from additives or manipulations. As a limited edition release, this Mark XXIV bottling represents a rare opportunity to experience one of the finest examples of traditional Barbados rum craftsmanship, hand-selected by Seale himself.
How to Enjoy
This premium rum deserves thoughtful appreciation. While the 60% ABV strength might initially suggest the need for dilution, take time to experience it neat in a proper spirits glass to fully appreciate its complexity and depth of character. For those who prefer a slightly tempered experience, a few drops of quality water can open up additional aromatic and flavor dimensions without compromising the rum's essential character. The rich profile of this exceptional rum also makes it a perfect digestif to savor slowly after a satisfying meal, allowing its multifaceted nature to unfold gradually as you enjoy each sip.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ABV of this rum?
Bottled at 60% ABV, it is a high-proof rum offering intense flavor complexity while maintaining balance.
How long was this rum aged?
Aged for 12 years in ex-Bourbon casks, primarily using first, second, and third fill barrels for layered maturation.
Are there additives in this rum?
No additives—it contains no added sugar, coloring, or filtration, adhering to Foursquare’s strict purity standards.
What flavor notes can I expect?
Anticipate caramel, vanilla, oak, caramelized grapefruit, dark cocoa, butterscotch, and overripe pineapple.
Is this a single blended rum?
Yes, it combines pot and column-distilled rums into a single blend, matured entirely in Barbados.
Where can I purchase this bottle?
Available through select retailers like Royal Batch and specialty liquor stores (pricing may vary).
Does the label design vary?
Batch numbers, labels, or packaging may differ slightly due to supplier changes, but the product specifications remain consistent.
Why choose this release?
The Mark XXIV represents Foursquare’s Exceptional Cask Selection series, emphasizing transparency and traditional Barbados rum-making.
