South Pacific Plantation Single Cask – Aquavit Cask Finish 2011

South Pacific Distilleries on Fiji turns out a pot still rum with a distinctive briny, fruity funk, and here Maison Ferrand takes a 2011 distillate and gives it an unusual aquavit cask finish on top of ex-bourbon ageing. Bottled around 48.6% at cask strength after almost nine years, it is a deliberate experiment rather than a house staple.

Fiji's pot still character reads close to Jamaica, all tropical fruit, salt and a funky edge, and the aquavit adds a gentle herbal and spicy thread rather than overwhelming the spirit. The nose opens floral and fruity with light smoke, the palate turns spicy and floral over young oak, and the finish runs metallic, fruity and dry. Fiji's natural sweetness shows early before the caraway-tinged finish tempers it. The odd pairing works with more balance than it has any right to, a rewarding pour for anyone who enjoys funky island rums.