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Foursquare Rum Distillery: A Modern Rum Renaissance

Discover the art of rum making at Foursquare Rum Distillery in Barbados, where tradition meets innovation in a sustainable and historic setting, offering exceptional rums.

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Foursquare Rum Distillery, located on a former sugar plantation dating back to 1720, is a modern marvel in the world of rum production. Reopened in 1996 by the Seale family, it's now helmed by Richard Seale, a fourth-generation rum maker celebrated for his dedication to traditional techniques and innovative cask selections. Visitors can explore the distillery at their own pace, witnessing the rum-making process from fermentation to distillation and aging. The distillery is known for its commitment to purity, with no added sugar or artificial flavors in its rums, and its eco-friendly practices. A visit promises an immersive experience into the art of rum production, culminating in a tasting of their exceptional blends.

A brief summary to Foursquare Rum Distillery

  • Monday 7:30 am-4:30 pm
  • Tuesday 7:30 am-4:30 pm
  • Wednesday 7:30 am-4:30 pm
  • Thursday 7:30 am-4:30 pm
  • Friday 7:30 am-4:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the week, as the distillery is closed on weekends and bank holidays.
  • Follow the yellow footprints for a self-guided tour of the distillery.
  • Sample the exceptional rums at the bar after your tour for a small fee.
  • Explore the Heritage Park to learn about the history of sugar and rum in Barbados.
  • Check out the CO2 collection plant, a clear example of Foursquare's focus on sustainability.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Bridgetown, take bus 11, 16A or 34 from the Fairchild Street Terminal towards St. Philip. The journey takes approximately 45-50 minutes. Ask the driver to drop you off at the 'Four Square' bus stop. From the bus stop, it's a short 5-minute (365 meters) walk to the distillery. The bus fare is BBD$3.50 per person each way.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis are readily available throughout Barbados. A taxi from the Oistins area to Foursquare Rum Distillery is approximately 13km and takes about 20 minutes. Expect to pay around BBD$40-50. Always confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

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Discover more about Foursquare Rum Distillery

Nestled in the southern countryside of Barbados, Foursquare Rum Distillery stands as a testament to the island's rich rum-making heritage and its modern approach to the craft. The distillery, situated on an eight-acre site that was once part of a sprawling sugar plantation dating back to 1720, seamlessly blends history with cutting-edge technology. The Seale family, with rum-making expertise stretching back to 1820, purchased the abandoned sugar factory in 1995 and transformed it into the state-of-the-art Foursquare Rum Distillery, which reopened in 1996. Today, Foursquare is run by Richard Seale, a fourth-generation distiller who has garnered international acclaim for his commitment to producing exceptional, unadulterated rums. Richard's philosophy centers around transparency and tradition, eschewing the addition of sugar, coloring, or artificial flavors, a practice that sets Foursquare apart from many other rum producers. He is also one of the foremost authorities on the history of Barbadian rum. A visit to Foursquare is a self-guided journey through the rum-making process. Visitors are free to wander through the distillery, following the marked path that winds past the fermentation tanks, the distillery's unique combination of pot and column stills, and the aging warehouses. Informative signs provide insights into each stage of production, from the fermentation of molasses (sourced from Guyana) to the careful distillation and the crucial aging process in oak barrels. The distillery's commitment to sustainability is also evident throughout the tour. Foursquare employs environmentally friendly practices, including capturing carbon dioxide produced during fermentation for use in local industries. This dedication to minimizing its environmental impact underscores Foursquare's position as a modern and responsible rum producer. Foursquare's innovative approach extends to its barrel aging program. Richard Seale is known for experimenting with different types of casks, including ex-bourbon, ex-sherry, and ex-cognac barrels, to create rums with complex and nuanced flavor profiles. These exceptional cask selections have earned Foursquare numerous accolades, including the prestigious Rum Distillery of the Year award at the International Wine and Spirit Competition (IWSC) multiple times. Beyond the production facilities, Foursquare also boasts a Heritage Park, showcasing historic buildings, colonial architecture, and a folk museum. This park offers a glimpse into Barbados' past and the integral role that sugar and rum have played in the island's history and culture. Young children will enjoy the playpark and beautiful grounds. The tour culminates in a visit to the tasting room, where visitors can sample a selection of Foursquare's award-winning rums. Knowledgeable staff are on hand to guide guests through the tasting, providing insights into the different flavor profiles and the unique characteristics of each blend. This is an opportunity to savor the craftsmanship and dedication that goes into every bottle of Foursquare rum. Foursquare produces a range of different brands, including Doorly's, Old Brigand and E.S.A. Field. The distillery also produces Exceptional Cask Selections, which represent the unique and rare offerings of Foursquare Rum Distillery that Richard has hand selected. These are one of a kind expressions, available only for a limited time, and showcasing truly unique approaches to both Rum blending and maturation. Whether you're a seasoned rum aficionado or simply curious about the spirit-making process, a visit to Foursquare Rum Distillery is an enriching and memorable experience. It's a chance to witness firsthand the passion, innovation, and commitment to quality that have made Foursquare one of the world's most respected rum producers. The open-door policy allows you to tour the distillery at your leisure. There are no organized tours but there is a tasting room should you develop a thirst!

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