Foursquare Penultimus ECS Mark XXX (57%)

With Penultimus, Foursquare delivers a closing release within the Exceptional Cask Selection series, built around the same precision and transparency the distillery has become known for. The rum is produced from a combination of pot and column still distillates fully matured in Barbados, with no additives, colouring or chill filtration.

For this release, Richard Seale combined ex-bourbon casks with ex-Moscatel casks. The Moscatel influence adds aromatic depth without pushing the rum into an overly sweet or heavy direction. Everything remains balanced and centred around the rum itself rather than excessive cask influence.

Dried fruit, orange peel and dark honey form the base, followed by cacao, roasted nuts and warm spice. The Moscatel casks introduce layers of raisin, ripe grape and a subtle floral note that gradually unfolds in the glass.

On the palate, structure becomes the defining element. Despite the 57% ABV, the rum remains remarkably controlled. Caramel, dark fruit and spice build steadily, while oak adds depth. Notes of coffee, leather and lightly toasted spices emerge gradually without losing elegance.

The finish lingers with oak, cacao, dried fruit and warm spice slowly fading while remaining present long after the final sip.