TCRL Beenleigh #35 2015

Transcontinental Rum Line, the rum label of La Maison du Whisky, bottled this single distillery rum from Beenleigh in Australia, distilled in 2015. Beenleigh is a historic Queensland distillery working with a pot still, and this is a molasses based, ex-bourbon aged release presented certified unsweetened, so the character comes entirely from spirit and cask.

At four years and 48% the profile is fruity and spicy, with yellow fruits, apple and pear, a savoury note of tea, then caramel and young wood with a peppery, drying finish. It is a characterful pot still rum that sits in a dry, mid strength lane rather than a soft or sweet one, with enough youthful energy to feel lively. This is an affordable, honest way to explore Beenleigh's fruity, spicy style for drinkers who enjoy dry, characterful rum in the Foursquare mould but want something a little different and off the beaten path. It works both as a sipper and in cocktails, and rewards a little time in the glass to let the fruit open.