Earlier this year I had the privilege of visiting the Bundaberg Rum Distillery and it’s fair to say I was bowled over by what a great Queensland story it is. Started by a group of mates 130 years ago to use up the molasses that is a by-product of the sugar industry, it continues to produce popular and award-winning rums using locally sourced ingredients, all from the same site where it all began in 1888.
As well as its core range, made to the same recipe since the beginning, Bundaberg Rum produces a number of exclusive and limited edition products, many of which have contributed to the 144 awards the distillery has won over the years. Its latest release must surely be one of its finest yet.
Bundaberg Rum Small Batch Spiced is the fourth release in the Small Batch series and it’s been released just in time for the distillery’s 130th birthday this week. It celebrates 13 decades of craftsmanship by combining 13 different spices, fruit nectars and citrus zest with premium rum, mellowed in heavily charred American oak barrels. The result is a perfectly balanced, intricately complex rum with heady spice notes of cinnamon, clove and star anise, layered over vanilla, caramel and marmalade/apricot notes.
With 40% ABV, it sells for a recommended $84.95 through the Bundaberg Distillery Store, online and nationwide including selected duty-free outlets. Bundaberg Rum was awarded World’s Best Gold Rum for its Master Distillers’ Collection Small Batch Reserve Rum at the 2016 World Drinks Awards in London. We think it’s onto a winner with this latest release too.
Read all about Bundaberg Rum’s Blend Your Own Rum Experience.
