Foursquare Convocation

Foursquare Convocatio, the latest addition to the legendary Exceptional Cask Series from the Foursquare distillery in Barbados, is a true celebration of complexity, strength and craftsmanship. The name comes from Latin and means ‘gathering’ or ‘formal meeting’ – which aptly reflects the very nature of this rum: a meeting of different types of casks, distillation methods and long tropical ageing.

This rum is a blend of pot still and column still distilled ingredients and has been aged exclusively in the tropical climate of Barbados. Three types of ageing were used: rum that aged for 14 years in ex-bourbon barrels, another that aged for 14 years in ex-Madeira barrels, and a third that first aged for 10 years in ex-bourbon barrels and then for 4 years in ex-Madeira barrels. It is this combination that gives it its distinctive depth and complexity of flavours, with maturation in Madeira casks being rather exceptional in this series - most of these casks are used for the regular production of Doorly's 12 and 14 year old rums.

When poured into a glass, it captivates with its dark amber colour and subtle orange hues. The aroma is rich, complex and very ‘Foursquare’ – notes of dried fruit such as plums, raisins, dates and dark cherries unfold, complemented by layers of tobacco, oak, spice, orange peel and chocolate. Coconut, vanilla and banana also flash in the background, giving the aroma an unexpected fruity-creamy smoothness.

On the palate, Convocation is strong and intense, yet surprisingly accessible despite its 62 % alcohol content. The flavour is rich and concentrated, dominated by a combination of red fruit, tobacco and wood, with hints of hazelnuts, dark chocolate and delicately sweet spices. The creamy texture softens the spiciness and creates a very well-balanced flavour profile in which sweetness and spiciness intertwine without unnecessary pathos. The finish is long and persistent, with notes of dried fruit, leather, vanilla and tobacco – like an eternal musical riff that lingers long after the last sip.

Foursquare Convocation is a demonstration of how harmoniously a combination of different types of barrels and precise blending can work. Although it is compared to the legendary Criterion, it is slightly more robust, bolder and perhaps even youthfully rougher. However, for lovers of an intense and honest rum experience, it is a clear choice.

The Foursquare Convocation product can only be purchased in a bundle with Doorly's XO!