A Clean Spirit Skunk Rum 2022

A Clean Spirit Skunk Rum 2022 is an unaged molasses rum bottled at a fierce overproof strength, 69.3%. A small, characterful release, it is built around raw, fruity distillate rather than oak, an unaged white that puts fermentation derived esters and tropical fruit front and centre at a strength that demands respect.

The nose is fruity and fermented with tropical fruit, banana and pineapple, the palate adding caramel and spice over more fruit, and the finish carrying esters, tropical fruit and a licorice note. Green apple runs through as well. At nearly 70% and without barrel ageing to round it, the spirit is intense and a little out of balance, the alcohol not fully integrated, which makes it far better suited to mixing than to neat sipping. For cocktail builders who want a high octane, fruity rum to dial up a drink it has plenty to give, an energetic, ester driven white best handled with care.