Introduction:
Foursquare Convocation is a high‑proof, limited‑edition rum from Barbados’ Foursquare Distillery, part of its Exceptional Cask Series. It showcases extended aging and barrel experimentation in a bold, expressive style.
General Information:
• Brand and Name: Foursquare Exceptional Cask Selection Mark XXVIII “Convocation”
• Type of Rum: Aged / oxidative style rum (blend matured in bourbon + Madeira casks)
• Origin: Barbados
• Age: 14 years (components matured 14 years in ex‑bourbon and ex‑Madeira barrels)
• ABV: 62% (124 proof)
Appearance:
• Color: Deep amber to mahogany, with rich hue—dark, saturated color reflecting heavy barrel influence
• Clarity: Clear (no obvious sediment)
• Viscosity: Thick “legs” / tears on the glass, indicating a rich, full body
Aroma (Nose):
• Complexity: High — layering of fruit, wood, tobacco, oxidative notes
• Key Notes: Vanilla, toasted coconut, pipe tobacco, bergamot / citrus peel, nutty elements, dark fruit (berries, raisins), subtle chocolate/cocoa, dried fruit, oak spice
• Intensity: Bold and assertive, even at full strength — strong aromatic presence
Taste (Palate):
• First Impression: Rich and intense, fruit-forward — immediately dark fruit and sweetness with depth
• Flavor Profile: Red and dark fruit (blackberries, raisins), caramel, toffee, roasted nuts (macadamia, oak nutty character), candied citrus peel (grapefruit, orange zest), chocolate undertones, tobacco, oak spice, a touch of leather/woodiness
• Texture: Chewy, full, slightly oily — substantial mouthfeel
• Balance: The sweetness from fruit and toffee moderates the robust oak and spice; despite high proof it remains well integrated and not overly harsh
Finish:
• Length: Long — lingering over many moments
• Flavors: Persisting red fruit, oak spice, toffee, leather, tobacco, citrus peel, with echoing sweetness
• Aftertaste: Warm and slightly drying from oak, but retains sweet and fruity echoes rather than bitterness
Overall Impression:
• Uniqueness: Convocation stands out for its combination of Madeira cask influence plus traditional Foursquare oxidation profile. The blend of ex‑bourbon and ex‑Madeira aging gives it a complex character not often encountered.
• Versatility: Best enjoyed neat or with a few drops of water to open it; can be showcased in very premium cocktails where its character is allowed to shine
• Occasion: Ideal for contemplative sipping — tasting flights, special occasions, or as a centerpiece for a rum night
Pairing Suggestions:
• Cocktails: A carefully pared-down Old Fashioned (using high-rye or neutral sweetener), a Rum Manhattan, or a stirred rum-forward cocktail where the high proof and flavor can assert themselves
• Food: Dark chocolate, roasted nuts, blue cheese, cured meats, dried fruit desserts (figs, plum tarts), even cigars or pipe tobacco accompaniments