Global rum ambassador Ian Burrell and Foursquare master distiller Richard Seale have brought what is believed to be the world’s first Afro-Caribbean rum to the UK on-trade.
The premium dark rum is described as a “collaboration of east and west” – “a blend of two cultures, two distilleries and two islands”.
Equiano starts its journey at Gray’s distillery in Mauritius, where fresh molasses is barrelled for ten years in a combination of French Limousin oak and ex-cognac casks. It is then blended with rum from Bajan producer Foursquare that has been aged in American white oak casks.
The rum is 100% natural, with no additives, no added sugar, spices or colourants. On the nose, it delivers “tropical warmth alongside notes of dried fruits such as raisins combined with sweet toffee, butterscotch and caramel”. To taste, Equiano offers “natural sweetness”, and finishes with touches of oak, anise, sweet pepper and a hint of bitter orange peel”.
The spirit is named after and inspired by Nigerian-born writer, abolitionist, traveller and freedom fighter Olaudah Equiano, following his journey from Africa to the Caribbean and the UK.
Ian says: “Premium rum is on the rise, and more importantly, the consumer that wants quality is demanding clarity, authenticity and intrinsic value in their rum.
“Equiano is a new style of rum – one that combines two rum cultures: African and the Caribbean.
“It’s an unadulterated rum that is best appreciated the way that YOU like to drink your spirits. Neat, on the rocks, with your favourite mixer or in a cocktail, this is a rum that you’ll discover, enjoy and then share.”
