Foursquare 16 yo (bottled 2021), Shibboleth – Exceptional Cask Selection, 56%

Introduction

Foursquare Shibboleth 16-Year-Old represents the pinnacle of traditional Barbadian rum craftsmanship, created by master distiller Richard Seale at what many consider the world’s most respected rum distillery.

Production Method

• Raw materials: Locally sourced molasses from Barbadian sugar cane, fermented with proprietary yeast strains
• Distillation process: Double distillation using a combination of traditional copper pot still and modern twin column still
• Maturation: Aged for 16 years in ex-bourbon American oak casks in the tropical Barbadian climate
• Special techniques: No added sugar, coloring, or flavoring—pure, unadulterated rum bottled at natural cask strength

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Rich oak, vanilla, dried fruits, toasted coconut, leather, and subtle tobacco with hints of baking spices
• Palate: Full-bodied with deep oak influence, caramelized brown sugar, dark chocolate, roasted coffee, dried tropical fruits, and complex spices including cinnamon and nutmeg
• Finish: Exceptionally long and warming with lingering notes of oak spice, vanilla, dried fruit, and a delicate hint of dark cocoa

Recommended Serving

• Serving temperature: Room temperature (18-21°C)
• Glass recommendation: Tulip-shaped whisky glass or Glencairn glass
• Serving ideas: Best enjoyed neat to appreciate its complexity; a few drops of water can open up additional layers of flavor
• Food pairings: Dark chocolate, aged cheeses, bread pudding, or pecan pie

Product Specifications

• Alcohol content: 56% ABV (cask strength)
• Bottle size: 700ml
• Country/Region of origin: Barbados, Caribbean
• Certifications/Awards: Multiple gold medals at prestigious spirits competitions including the International Spirits Challenge and San Francisco World Spirits Competition

Summary

A Unique Tasting Experience

Foursquare Shibboleth 16-Year-Old stands as one of the most distinguished expressions in the rum world, offering an unparalleled depth of character only possible through traditional production methods and lengthy tropical aging.

With limited bottles released globally, Shibboleth represents a rare opportunity to experience one of Richard Seale’s most celebrated creations before supplies are exhausted.

Recognized by critics and experts as a benchmark for premium aged rum, this release continues Foursquare’s legacy as “The Pappy Van Winkle of Rum” and Richard Seale’s reputation as one of the most respected master distillers in the spirits industry.

Recognition from Connoisseurs

Rum enthusiasts and collectors worldwide seek out Foursquare’s Exceptional Cask Selection releases, with many considering them essential additions to any serious spirits collection.

Those who have committed to exploring Foursquare’s expressions consistently rank Shibboleth among their most treasured bottles, appreciating its remarkable complexity and authenticity.

The exceptional critical acclaim for this bottling includes multiple 90+ point ratings from renowned spirits publications and frequent appearances on “Best Rum of the Year” lists.

From Foursquare Distillery to You

By crafting this exceptional rum with no additives and presenting it at natural cask strength, Foursquare offers rum lovers the purest expression of their artisanal approach and Barbadian terroir.

The passion and transparency that Richard Seale brings to rum-making has earned him and Foursquare Distillery an unmatched reputation for integrity and quality that resonates with discerning spirits enthusiasts.

Join the community of Foursquare admirers who appreciate authentic rum craftsmanship and experience why Shibboleth 16-Year-Old stands as a defining expression in the modern renaissance of premium rum.