Rum Sponge Refill Barrel Foundation 2004

Rum Sponge Refill Barrel Foundation 2004 is a Nicaraguan single cask from Decadent Drinks, the UK bottler behind the Rum Sponge label. Drawn from a 2004 distillate of molasses spirit, it is given nineteen years in a refill ex-bourbon barrel and bottled at a full proof 60%, a far weightier take on the usually soft Nicaraguan style.

Age and strength push it dark and rich. The nose carries wood, fruit, dried fruit and coffee, the palate is intense with cocoa, chocolate and oak, and the finish stays woody, round and oily with a roasted edge. There is real depth and a warming, spicy heart, and as with most rum at this strength it rewards time in the glass and a little water. Sugar is not declared and the profile reads rich rather than overtly sweet. A chocolate forward, intense Nicaraguan for experienced drinkers who want a slow, contemplative pour over a light sipper.