The Australia is a collaboration with Beenleigh Artisan Distillery who came to The Duchess IB in order to have them release one of their barrels.
Molasses based, pot & column still distilled in 2007, aged 10 years in Australia and 3 more in Europe using cask no. 38 which was an ex-Bourbon. Bottled in 2021 at 63.4% ABV with a limited number of 284 bottles and without anything added.
On the nose it seems very balanced, reminds me of high-end Barbadian rums. Aromatic tobacco, Luxardo cherries, red apples, ripe pears, canned strawberries and stewed rhubarb & ginger. Sandalwood, peach and triple sec. Interesting and layered. Some fruity honey and passion fruit as well.
On the palate there are the lovely stone fruits I love from Beenleigh. Unripe peaches and apricots, melon, lemon biscuits and kiwi. Lime leaves, wasabi and angelica root. Grapefruit peels, a touch of olive brine and coriander. There’s a slight buttery note in the background, but it’s quickly overtaken by the overall acidity. Toffee and varnish. The finish is long with menthol and stone fruits.
I just love this kind of pungent/acidic profile from Beenleigh, I would have this continuously. It isn’t for everyone, but if enjoy the likes of Mount Gay Pot Still you need this in your life! And a bottle is only €75, this is great value if you ask me.
The Duchess Australia 13 Year Old score:
Flavour/taste: 61/70
Value for money: 15/15
Transparency/purity: 15/15
Overall: 91/100
Cheers!