Beenleigh Rumclub Private Selection Ed. 35 2013

This Rumclub Private Selection, bottled by Spirit of Rum, draws a single ex-bourbon cask of Beenleigh, one of Australia's oldest distilleries, from the 2013 vintage at nine years old. At full cask strength of 69.7 percent it is unapologetically a slow-sipping rum for experienced palates, best approached with patience and a little dilution.

Despite the proof it leans bright and fruity rather than heavy: green apple, citrus and yellow fruit lead, underpinned by honey, vanilla and a roasted, young-wood depth that turns toward espresso on the finish. A few drops of water knit the strength together and coax out the fruit. It is the kind of single cask that rewards time in the glass, offering plenty of warmth and flavour for those who already enjoy full-proof Australian and Caribbean rum.