Down Island Spirits Ghana 2020 Rum is a Other Rum crafted in Ghana.
This cane juice rum from Ghana was distilled in a town known for gold mining, then aged for over 3 years in ex-Bourbon casks in the Netherlands, creating a unique fusion of West African terroir and American oak influence. Interestingly, the distillery is located near Lake Bosumtwi, a sacred body of water believed by the Ashanti people to house the souls of their departed ancestors.
Cocktail enthusiasts should seek out Down Island Spirits Ghana 2020 Rum for its rare origin and unique production process - distilled from fresh cane juice in western Ghana's Ahafo Region, then aged for over three years in ex-Bourbon casks in the Netherlands, resulting in a full-flavored rum that captures both its African terroir and European maturation.
This bold Ghanaian rum shines when sipped neat or with a single large ice cube, allowing its complex flavors to unfold, but it also adds depth to spirit-forward cocktails; enjoy it year-round, particularly on cooler evenings, paired with rich, spicy dishes or dark chocolate desserts.
Nose: Fresh sugarcane, green banana, and grassy notes lead the way. Hints of vanilla and oak from the bourbon cask aging emerge, along with subtle tropical fruit aromas of pineapple and mango. A touch of ethanol heat is present due to the high proof.
Palate: Intense and full-bodied. The cane juice character shines through with flavors of raw sugar and freshly cut grass. Bourbon cask influence adds layers of caramel, vanilla, and baking spices. Tropical fruit notes intensify, bringing ripe banana, pineapple, and a hint of coconut. The high ABV provides a strong warming sensation.
Finish: Long and warming. The cane juice sweetness lingers, balanced by oak tannins and spice. Grassy notes fade to reveal more tropical fruit flavors. A slight mineral quality emerges, reminiscent of wet stones. The finish tapers off with a pleasant interplay of sweetness and oak dryness.
This unique rum begins with fresh-pressed sugarcane juice in Ghana, which is fermented and distilled in a pot still before being shipped to the Netherlands for aging in ex-bourbon casks, resulting in a spirit that marries West African terroir with European maturation techniques.
There aren't many African-nation distilled rums available in the states and this bottling begs the question why we don't see more. The rum cuts an uncharted path across rum styles with a distinctively fruity palate and mellow sweetness that leads to a lightly savory finish. Excellent rum recommended without reservation or qualifications.
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Please drink responsibly. CA Residents: Proposition 65 Warning.
