Old St. Croix (Riise) Non Plus Ultra Black Edition

Profile: An Overview of the Old St. Croix (Riise) Non Plus Ultra Black Edition

• A careful blend of select rums from the Caribbean and Central America
• Matured in heavily charred bourbon casks – for a distinctive character
• The most intense expression in the Non Plus Ultra series – exclusive and sophisticated
• Limited to a maximum of 2,000 numbered bottles per batch – highly sought-after
• Presented in an elegant, faceted black decanter – a highlight for any home bar
• Allergen information: may contain traces of walnuts

Portrait: What makes the Old St. Croix (Riise) Non Plus Ultra Black Edition special

Black represents elegance, mystery, and understatement—though "understatement" might not be the most fitting term for a bottle like the Old St. Croix Non Plus Ultra Black Edition. Finally, there sits on the shelf an elegant, black, faceted decanter—a vessel that looks as though it deserves a place of its own inside a vault. Anyone who gives this as a gift can expect to draw curious glances—and will likely have to explain why the bottle doesn’t appear to have come straight out of a James Bond film.

The name “Non Plus Ultra”—meaning “nothing further beyond”—is rooted in an ancient legend. According to tradition, this inscription appeared on the Pillars of Hercules at the entrance to the Strait of Gibraltar. It marked the edge of the known world, warning seafarers against venturing into the unknown. Today, however, it sounds more like a challenge than a warning—and it is precisely this pioneering spirit that the exclusive Ultra Premium Collection from Old St. Croix embodies.

The brand is closely linked to A.H. Riise, named after the Danish pharmacist and merchant Albert Heinrich Riise. Living and working on the Caribbean island of St. Thomas during the 19th century, he laid the foundation for a brand history that, to this day, remains defined by the fusion of Danish tradition and Caribbean origins.

The Black Edition is the notably dark interpretation of the Non-Plus-Ultra series. The blend is crafted from hand-selected base rums sourced from renowned distilleries across the Caribbean and Central America. Maturation in heavily charred bourbon casks is a hallmark of this bottling’s production process—this is no mere haphazard mixing of spirits; the cask itself is meant to play a starring role.

The presentation stays true to the name: each batch is limited to a maximum of 2,000 numbered bottles, housed in an elegant black decanter. This makes the Black Edition a standout piece for collectors, enthusiasts, and anyone looking to add a touch of secret-agent flair to their home bar.

The fact that this bottling won Gold at the Tokyo Whisky & Spirits Competition underscores its international caliber.

Old St. Croix Non Plus Ultra Black Edition—for those who like to push boundaries but refuse to compromise on style.

Tasting Notes: This is how the Old St. Croix (Riise) Non Plus Ultra Black Edition tastes like

• Nose: Fruity notes of ripe peach blend with creamy milk chocolate and enticing butterscotch. A harmonious bouquet with a sweet, elegant character.
• Palate: Very full-bodied and creamy, featuring intense notes of milk chocolate accompanied by subtle almond nuances and fresh orange accents. Spicy hints of orange-glazed gingerbread emerge as the flavor develops, followed by a delicate touch of tannins that adds structure.
• Finish: Long-lasting and smooth, with lingering notes of milk chocolate, caramel, and orange. Fine spicy nuances and a gentle hint of tannins lend depth and an elegant conclusion to the finish.