Fine Spirits South Pacific Rum of the World 2014

Fine Spirits bottled this South Pacific Distillery rum from Fiji, a six year old pot still single cask from the 2014 vintage at cask strength, 50%. It captures the raw, divisive Fijian style without sweetening, a punchy and uncompromising spirit rather than a polished one.

Pot distilled from molasses and aged in ex-bourbon oak, the rum is intense and dry, with smoke, varnish, alcohol and raisin on the nose and a palate of smoke, dark chocolate and woody bitterness. The finish stays burnt and woody over dried fruit. Several drinkers found the alcohol not fully integrated and the acidity high, judging it best in a mixer. With no added sugar and a firm bitter streak, it suits those who enjoy the funky, smoky side of Fiji and are content to mix rather than sip it neat.