S.B.S (Bourbon and Port Cask) 1998

Another S.B.S single barrel from Danish bottler 1423, this Panamanian rum is distilled from molasses on a column still and drawn from a 1998 vintage to a substantial twenty six years. Matured first in bourbon and then in Port casks, it shows how a soft Spanish style base can be transformed by patient ageing and a wine cask finish, with 1423's transparent, non chill filtered approach throughout.

The nose leans toward roast, dried fruit, caramel and vanilla, the palate brings dried fruit, nuts, vanilla and coffee, and the finish carries barrel spice, fruit and a clear wine note. The Port adds dark berry depth and a ripe sweetness that stays subtle rather than syrupy, with the alcohol well integrated. Despite its 55% strength it drinks rich and easy, an accessible cask strength sipper for drinkers who enjoy Zacapa style sweetness but want more age and a natural, cask driven fruit.