2009 represents the latest release from Foursquare Distillery, Barbados. The seventeenth release (Mark XVII) in the Exceptional Cask Selection, continuing the award-winning Vintage series which launched with the ground-breaking, and critically acclaimed 2004. The 2005 release was awarded Supreme Champion at the International Spirits Challenge in 2018, the first time that a Rum has ever attained the highest award at the competition. The 2007 Vintage continued the award-winning run, with 2008 taking a double gold at the ISC, and the Rum Trophy at the IWSC. Expectations are set to be met with the release of the 2009 Vintage.

2009 is a Single Blended Rum, in that it is a blend of heavy and light marques Rums distilled in the copper double retort potstill and the continuous twin column still of Foursquare Distillery, aged in Barbados for 12 years in ex-bourbon cask American white oak. Presented at 60% alcohol by volume, without chill-filtration, at its natural colour, and free from sweeteners and other flavourings.

Foursquare 2009 offers a complex and evolving sip. A rich intensity that is balanced in its delivery. Its approachability belying its presentation strength. A truly excellent Rum that you would want to return to time and again.

A complex nose of Dried apricots, sultanas, and zesty lemon peel. Tamarind syrup, fudge, and a hint of cloves and caraway seeds. Crispy bacon, cedarwood, toasted bread, and a hint of eucalyptus. An oily mouthful of rich, dried summer fruits. Roasted pineapple, caramel, a touch of fresh ginger, honey, and dried coconut. Gentle hints of burnt rubber. Complex, lingering notes of cinnamon, honied-ginger, bitter cacao. A warming, astringent persistence that builds with each sip. This is a complex Rum, and one that delivers with a pleasing intensity. It feels like one might get lost in the nose alone, long before taking a sip. Taking your time is to be recommended as this Rum continues to reward exploration.