Berry Bros & Rudd Classic Range Rum

Berry Bros & Rudd, the long established London wine and spirits merchant, offers this Barbados rum in its accessible Classic Range, bottled at a soft 40.5%. The character points clearly to Foursquare distillate, the island's strict no additives pot and column style, in a gentle, entry level guise.

The nose is soft, with young wood, tropical fruit, brown sugar and a hint of almond, the palate more lively than the aroma suggests, bringing dried fruit, burnt sugar, honey and spice. The finish stays short with caramel and black pepper. The typical Barbadian banana and oak fingerprint is there, though the modest age and proof keep it light. An easy, undemanding introduction to the island style, it leans on softness and approachability rather than power or depth, a relaxed everyday pour.