An iconic imported rum. This rum is named after the voyages, stories and discoveries of botanist, artist and scientist Sir Joseph Banks. It was Banks who accompanied Captain James Cook on his epic voyage to Australia, identifying and naming many of the native flora. This rum replicates the journeys of Banks by mixing spirits from five different islands, in the Caribbean and the Far East. Rum is mixed from Barbados, Guyana, Trinidad and Jamaica, all of which are of the slightly earth and thickly flavoured “British” style. To this is added the interesting ingredient of Batavian Arrack from Java – which was formally a crucial element in many a fine Colonial-era cocktail. The blend is then well-aged, for between 3 to 12 years, a considerable time for a white rum, before being filtered to remove colour. This gives the final spirit clarity of look, but incredible depth of flavour. Veteran bartender Jim Meehan and cocktail historian David Wondrich are outspoken fans of this rum bottling.

On the nose, this rum is rich in Jamaican influence, with a little funky pot still aroma, alongside bright vanilla, some Demerara sugar and tropical fruits from the Arrack. Some woodspice emerges after a while. On the palate, this rum opens with a fresh pepperiness, a little lime rind and some toasted pineapple. Flavours of overripe banana, molasses and barrel funk emerge, accompanied by a slight vegetal note. The finish is long, precise and drying, with a superb orchard fruit flavour. Phenomenal depth for a white rum. This is a rum that is as at home in cocktails as it is drunk neat, as the company say themselves: the rum is “a shame to mix, but a pity not to”. The go-to white rum for a daiquiri in many of the world’s best bars.

• Product type
  White
• Distillery / brand
  Banks
• Non-chillfiltered
  No
• Natural colour
  Yes
• SKU
  025957