The Original Islay Rum - Overproof

Profile: The Original Islay Rum - Overproof at a glance

• Overproof Power: A robust 63% ABV
• Extended Fermentation: Fermented for three to six weeks
• Small Batch: Craft-produced – only 840 bottles filled
• High Ester Content: 242.1 g/hL AA – Distilled to be expressive and full of character
• Natural State: No added coloring & no chill filtration

Portrait: What makes The Original Islay Rum - Overproof special

Anyone claiming that Islay is home only to whisky hasn't reckoned with the Islay Rum Company. Since 2022, the famous Hebridean island’s first - and so far only - rum distillery has been making rum history amidst peat bogs, Atlantic winds, and flocks of sheep. With The Original Islay Rum - Overproof, the young distillery impressively demonstrates that bold ideas sometimes emerge in the very places no one expects.

This rum is crafted in the historic “Old Lemonade Factory” in the port town of Port Ellen. While the name might evoke thoughts of lemonade, the spirit itself couldn't be further removed from it. Instead of lemon soda, the focus here is on traditional copper pot stills with a double-retort setup - modeled after classic Caribbean rum distilleries. Yet, the goal is not mere imitation, but a unique interpretation created on Scottish soil.

The Islay Rum Company demonstrates exceptional patience during the fermentation process. While many distilleries move on to distillation after just a few days, the mashes here are allowed to ferment for anywhere from three to six weeks. In addition to selected yeast strains, wild yeasts and local bacterial cultures are also employed. It sounds almost like a scientific research project - only with a far more enjoyable end result.

With a robust 63% ABV, this overproof rum certainly lives up to its name.

The high alcohol content is not an end in itself, but rather the expression of an uncompromising, natural distillate that authentically reflects the distillery's artisanal character. The fact that this bottling is limited to just 840 bottles further demonstrates that quality clearly takes precedence over quantity.

The Islay Rum Company combines Caribbean distilling traditions with Scotland’s centuries-old distilling culture, demonstrating a true pioneering spirit. Instead of following well-trodden paths, the company is creating a category all its own - right in the heart of an island that is already world-famous.

The Original Islay Rum – Overproof is therefore far more than just a high-proof rum. It stands as proof that Islay is now home to exceptional rum alongside its renowned whisky - crafted with a generous dose of courage, passion, and island charm.

Tasting Notes: This is how The Original Islay Rum - Overproof tastes like

• Nose: An expressive bouquet of overripe bananas and green apple opens the interplay of aromas. Intense ester notes lend the rum striking depth and create a distinctive first impression.
• Palate: On the palate, a powerful combination of juicy pears and the typical, funky nuances of the distillation process unfolds. The rich texture impressively highlights the fruity accents and gives the rum a commanding presence.
• Finish: Long-lasting and intense, the rum concludes with a lively ester note. The fruity depth endures to the very end, creating an expressive, lingering finish.