Rolling Fork Single Cask Barbados

Aged eight years in ex-bourbon barrels in Barbados at Foursquare distillery, then moved to KY for an additional thirteen months in ex-high-rye bourbon barrels. At about $75, it seems fair given a 12-year Foursquare exceptional cask release is around $100. So, how does it perform? Golden hue with very fast, sheeting legs. The high-rye bourbon character is apparent immediately. Notes of caramel, banana, caraway, burnt sugar, rye, peppermint chocolate, and hints of papaya and tobacco. The mouthfeel is light. The initial taste is more rum than bourbon, but the finish shifts with some rye elements. Flavors include molasses, salted caramel, sweet oak, grilled pineapple and papaya, followed by rye, a quick taste of Andes mints, and tobacco. The finish ends a bit suddenly for my preference, though some burnt sugar remains on the palate. I'm calling this a success. I believe the original ex-bourbon casks and absence of added sugar will appeal to Foursquare enthusiasts. I don't miss the rancio notes sherry often adds. That brief rye burst at the end of the palate, though, really hits the spot for me. It's a definite improvement over Doorly's 12, offering a slightly more chalky texture (though not remarkable) alongside rye, mint, and chocolate. Now, we need to compare it to its predecessor…

This was fantastic. A truly distinctive rum.

This is truly excellent!