Bristol South Pacific Column Still 2010

Bristol Classic Rum, the long running English specialist in closed and far flung distilleries, bottled this South Pacific Distillery rum from Fiji, distilled in 2010 and aged twelve years to 47%. It comes from a producer whose rums can carry a distinctive island funk, though this particular cask stays notably restrained.

The spirit is column distilled from molasses and matured in ex-bourbon oak, which lends a lighter frame than the proof might suggest. Coconut, soft wood and pastry shape the nose, the palate offers a clean sweetness with more coconut over a slightly thin body, and the finish dries out with caramel and milk chocolate. Unsweetened and easygoing, it drinks well above its strength, with the rougher Fijian edges sitting quietly in the background.