Foursquare Clifton Hall Great House 12-Year

Interesting rum find at airport duty free leaving Barbados this afternoon. Very well balanced smooth rum specially selected by the current owner of the historic 1656 Clifton Hall Great House sugar plantation distillery which is no longer in operation. The rum is his 12 year old private cask collection made by Foursquare. A solid rum lower proof than most ECS at 46% nice light Bourbon scent with oaky undertones which leads to the great island spices.I’ve read some of the previous batches were 40%, so this one likely has more depth. Similar to Doorly’s 14 year.

Not the greatest, but robust enough to stand up to the west Indian curry it was partnered with.

The nose is very beautiful! On taste is little watery because is 40abv ! It need more power ! But good for sipping if you find at correct price !

Sugar: Estimated at 5 GPL. Purchased this a duty free and while I found it to be a good rum but I wouldn't purchase a second one. It is similar to other Bajan rums (Mt Gay and Doorly's come to mind). A bit too much burn for my liking and it tasted too much like bourbon for me. It's a good rum, however, I was looking for something smoother.

What a fantastic rum.. but first a bit of history. Clifton Hall on Barbados had fallen into a state of disrepair when it was bought by Massimo and Karen Franchi , he's a football players agent ( so , loaded ). They renovated the property at great expense and to celebrate the project approached Richard Searle at Foursquare for a special rum.. and this is it !! 12 yrs old and bottled at the standard 40% ( unfortunately) Would of been a 10 from me at 46%. A lovely darkish golden colour in the glass , quite an strong ethanol aroma at the start but soon gives way to mild smoke , toffee , caramel and nuts. On sipping a wave of sweetness at first then more depth and complexity from the nuts and fruits in the background. Beautifully single blended rum , I love it.. almost impossible to find but if you do , grab it !