Foursquare Penultimus 15 yo (bottled 2025), Exceptional Cask Selection – Mark XXX, 57%

Introduction

Foursquare Penultimus is Mark XXX in Richard Seale’s world-renowned Exceptional Cask Selection series – and the name says it all: “penultimus” is Latin for second to last, signalling the beginning of the end of one of the rum world’s most respected series. This 15-year-old Barbadian rum is a masterpiece of complexity and transparency, crafted with the uncompromising philosophy that has made Foursquare a benchmark for quality worldwide.

Production Method

• Ingredients: Produced at Foursquare Distillery in Barbados exclusively from high-quality molasses, in keeping with the traditional Barbadian rum-making tradition.
• Distillation process: A blend of rum distilled in traditional copper pot stills and modern column stills, yielding a distinctive combination of depth and elegance in the finished rum.
• Maturation: A two-part strategy: one portion of the blend has matured for 15 years exclusively in ex-bourbon casks, while the other has matured for 10 years in bourbon casks followed by 5 years in sweet Moscatel wine casks – both in the warm Barbadian climate, which significantly accelerates the maturation process.
• Special techniques: Bottled at cask strength at 57% with no added sugar, caramel, colouring, or any other additives. Richard Seale practises full transparency and employs only traditional production methods, which is an integral part of Foursquare’s identity and philosophy.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Rich and inviting, with prominent notes of dark chocolate, ripe pineapple, and sweet caramel, supported by hints of dried fruit and subtle vinous nuances from the Moscatel casks.
• Palate: Complex and full-bodied, with an intense combination of spiced caramel, dark chocolate, and tropical fruit – including ripe pineapple – complemented by a warm, smooth spiciness underpinned by vanilla tones from the bourbon casks and the delicate sweetness of the Moscatel casks.
• Finish: Long and well-balanced, with a fresh, refreshing hint of lemon sorbet that lifts the finish and creates an elegant contrast to the rich, spiced core. The conclusion is clean and lingering.

Serving Recommendations

• Serving temperature: Room temperature, approximately 18–22°C, to bring out the full expression of aromas and flavours.
• Glass recommendation: A tulip-shaped nosing glass or a Glencairn glass is recommended to concentrate the aromas and ensure the best possible tasting experience.
• Serving suggestions: Best enjoyed neat or with a single ice cube, which slowly opens up the rum and highlights its complexity. A small drop of cold still water can also be added to reduce the strength and release additional aromatic layers.
• Food pairings: Pairs beautifully with high-cocoa dark chocolate, aged cheeses such as manchego or pecorino, caramelised desserts, and tropical fruit dishes. Also complements hearty dishes featuring spiced pork or game-based preparations.

Product Specifications

• Alcohol content: 57% ABV (cask strength)
• Bottle size: 70 cl
• Country/region of origin: Barbados – Foursquare Distillery, St. Philip
• Certifications/Awards: The Exceptional Cask Selection series has been repeatedly acclaimed by international rum experts and media, including Dave Broom and Rum Enthusiast, and is regarded as one of the world’s most prestigious rum series. Richard Seale has received numerous international awards for his uncompromising approach to rum production.

Summary

A Unique Tasting Experience

Foursquare Penultimus Mark XXX represents a rare convergence of 15 years of patient maturation and Richard Seale’s unwavering commitment to quality – the result is a rum of extraordinary depth, complexity, and purity that sets a new standard for what Barbadian rum can be.

As the penultimate release in the Exceptional Cask Selection series, Penultimus is a historic and essential bottle for any serious rum collector – when the series concludes, this mark will forever stand as a symbol of one of the most remarkable chapters in rum history.

Richard Seale is recognised as one of the world’s foremost authorities on rum production, and Foursquare Distillery has repeatedly been named one of the best distilleries in the world – Penultimus is living proof of why these accolades are thoroughly deserved.

Recognition from Connoisseurs

The Exceptional Cask Selection series enjoys global recognition among rum enthusiasts, bartenders, and collectors, who consistently highlight Foursquare’s openness, authenticity, and uncompromising craftsmanship as something truly special in an industry not always known for its transparency.

When you invest in a bottle of Foursquare, you join a community of enthusiasts who value honesty and quality above all else – and you set a standard for yourself that is difficult to compromise on once you have experienced it.

From rum experts to newcomers, the reaction is the same: Foursquare Penultimus is not merely a rum – it is an experience that leaves a lasting impression and time and again raises the bar for what is possible in a bottle.

From Foursquare to You

With Penultimus, Richard Seale and Foursquare Distillery share the fruit of 15 years of dedicated work, careful cask selection, and an unwavering philosophy of authenticity – all of it condensed into a single bottle, now ready to find its home on your shelf or in your glass.

Foursquare is a distillery built on family tradition, pride, and a love of the craft, and it is a passion that is unmistakably present in every single drop of Penultimus – you can simply taste the dedication.

Seize the opportunity to own a piece of rum history before the series draws to a close with its ultimate release – Foursquare Penultimus Mark XXX is not just a rum; it is a farewell you should not miss.