Foursquare 2004

This rum is intensely woody, almost aggressively so, yet the alcohol flavor isn't overpowering. Pleasant citrus notes provide balance to the alcohol, and cinnamon is clearly detectable. Hints of prune mingle with lighter fruits and caramel. It's quite good with emerging depth, but I question its value compared to Ron Diplomatico, which is half the price. Ron Diplomatico also uses sweetness with wood, so this could have been improved by moderating its sweetness and incorporating wood instead of merely amplifying the wood (and smoke). Conversely, Ron Diplomatico's pronounced woodiness on the finish lingers excessively. Overall, the quality of these two is comparable. The aroma suggests fireworks with a touch of spice and caramel. The palate is drying yet complex, with a pleasant, balanced sweetness. A pronounced bitterness in the center is slightly excessive, but otherwise, the flavor is enjoyable. I might prefer slightly less sweetness, but it's a solid, standard rum. Beyond the fireworks and rye bitterness, there are notes of butterscotch and cane sugar alongside considerable spice, featuring pepper. The rye flavor is distinctly herbal, with a subtle crisp fruit note, perhaps apple, hidden within. It's quite drinkable at cask strength, though not exceptionally enjoyable. It tastes very burnt, possibly indicating cocoa powder. The sweetness level is acceptable, but it would be better without the cane sugar notes. The finish is a bit too herbal. Diluting it with water brings out the fireworks significantly. The character doesn't alter dramatically, but a slightly darker corn syrup quality emerges. Complexity, disappointingly, diminishes with water. I don't perceive the complexity others mention; it's decently complex but also just a typical smoky rum. At least the herbal notes lessen with added water. I could certainly sip this and remain rather indifferent. With water, there's a bit too much alcohol and mineral present. It's not particularly exciting.

Wow! This rum's reputation is well-earned! It presents a beautiful amber hue in the glass. The nose offers dark fruit notes, reminiscent of figs and stewed apples, along with abundant caramel, sugar, vanilla, and pleasant oakiness. The palate is impressively full-proof, delivering intense flavors without reservation. It has a very full-bodied, viscous mouthfeel, rich with burnt sugar/creme brulee and dark candied fruits. Oak and a nice char come through strongly on the finish, which is exceptionally smooth and long.

As someone who has exclusively drunk Whiskey/Bourbon for over 30 years, this Rum is genuinely a masterpiece. Rich, thick, and not excessively sweet. Balanced notes of vanilla, molasses, spice, and oak on the aroma. On the taste it's cocoa, spice, oak, and caramel. The finish is lengthy and warming but not overwhelming. A fantastic pour and should be savored neat (in my opinion). I appreciate all my whiskey at high and/or cask strength, so this suits me perfectly. Cheers!

Sweet, yet well-balanced. Hints of orange and sugar. Minimal burn. Clearly the best of the Foursquare dated releases and my top choice of any of their offerings. The 2005 pales in comparison as it is overly dominated by charred oak, while the 2004 provides sufficient oak to complement the profile without being excessive. If you appreciate the 2007, you will very likely adore the 2004, so seek out a bottle if you have the chance.

As flawless as I've experienced. Every moment of the sip is a burst of flavor – berries and vanilla cream, subtle cinnamon and oak, finishing with a hint of tobacco. A complete progression from beginning to end. One of the finest bottles in my collection.

Exceptional spirit that meets expectations. This rum offers flavors of coffee, chocolate, peppermint, chili peppers, barrel spices, plus subtle vanilla and caramel without any artificial additions. Enjoyed by fans of whisky, brandy, tequila, and more...