Bacardí extends Cask Finish line

Rum brand Bacardí has expanded its limited edition cask-finished series with a new expression finished in rye casks.

Bacardí Reserva Ocho Rye Cask Finish is the second expression in the brand’s five-year Cask Finish series, following the ‘sell-out’ release of Bacardí Reserva Ocho Sherry Cask Finish in August 2021.

The rum brand will debut a new addition to the Cask Finish collection every August until 2025. The producer is seeking to attract whisky drinkers with the cask-finished line.

“In 2018, Bacardí set out to introduce a true, robust portfolio of premium rum offerings spanning four to over 12 years in age,” said Lisa Pfenning, vice-president, Bacardi North America.

“As the leader in the rum category, we’re always challenging ourselves to innovate, introducing new and unique expressions to bring more people into the sippable rum universe.

“Rum is in a unique position because it has a natural warmth that invites conviviality and connection, unlike other dark spirits on the market.”

Astrophel ‘Troy’ Arquiza, who was named global master blender for the brand last November, selected Bacardí Reserva Ocho as the base for the new rum. It was aged in American oak barrels for eight to 12 years and finished in rye casks for two months.

With an ABV of 45%, the resulting liquid is said to have an aroma of gingerbread, maple sugar and a hint of spiciness, alongside notes of smoke, wood, caramelised brown sugar and vanilla.

Each bottle of the limited edition rum features a unique marque number and the year of production.

Bacardí Reserva Ocho Rye Cask Finish is priced at RRP US$32.99 per 750ml bottle. It will be available online and in stores across the US later this month.