Foursquare ECS XIV Détente 2010

Détente is a release in Foursquare's ECS range, a ten year old Barbados single blend from Richard Seale's St Philip distillery, finished in port casks and bottled with no additives. At 51% it sits at the gentler, more approachable end of the cask strength series, which makes it an easy way into the distillery's serious aged rum.

The profile marries the house marriage of pot and column still spirit with a port influence: vanilla, coconut and raisin with baking spice and a touch of dark chocolate over clean oak. Ten years of tropical ageing give it depth without heaviness, and the moderate strength keeps it smooth and rounded, comfortable neat or over ice. Unsweetened and well balanced, it is a reliable, good-value entry to the series, showing the Foursquare and port pairing in a form that does not demand water or long rest to enjoy.