Foursquare 2011 Mark XXIV

The 24th Foursquare Exceptional Cask Selection maintains the high standard we’ve come to expect from this series, offering powerful notes of citrus oil, treacle tart, fresh ginger and Sarawak pepper. Ageing in white oak bourbon barrels contributes a layer of vanilla ice cream and coconut without obscuring the underlying spirit character. One for the rum lovers, naturally, but anyone who appreciates fine spirits will find lots to enjoy here.
 
Foursquare 2011 is molasses based, pot and column distilled and aged for 12 years in ex-Bourbon casks. Bottled at 60% ABV without any additives or chill filtering.
 
On the nose it feels aromatic and spicy. Creole spices, candied ginger, dried hibiscus and pink pepper. Walnuts, raisins and raw cacao nibs. It smells woody and chewy. Strawberry jam, cloves, marmalade and dried plums. Nail varnish, red apples and blackcurrants.
 
On the palate it’s also quite chewy. Sour cherries, dried fruits, creole spices and wood staves covered in molasses (at least this is how I think they would taste). Strawberry jam, blood orange and some warm spices. The oak and the distillate really compliment each other here. Blackberries, ginger, walnuts and caramel. Ripe bananas, cooked apples and maple syrup. The finish is long with spice galore and rich oaky notes.