Cockspur 12 Year Review

Cockspur 12 represents the premium offering from Cockspur’s limited range, demonstrating West Indies Rum Distillery’s approach to aged Barbadian rum production. Both column still and pot still rums are used in its production, and it is bottled at 40% alcohol by volume. This expression executes traditional Bajan characteristics within the mid-tier aged rum category.

Technical Assessment

The name “Cockspur 12” does not refer to the specific age of the rum, rather it refers to the blended taste profile with ages ranging from 4 to 17 years. The expression functions more as an 8-year blend enhanced with older components rather than a straight 12-year expression. The production methodology maintains authentic Barbadian standards without added sugars or artificial enhancement.

Nose Evaluation

The aromatic presentation delivers oak as the prevailing aroma, joined by caramel, strong cinnamon, clove, and pecan. Quality assurance testing documented vanilla and honey characteristics with light oak development. Coconut, vanilla and caramel fill the nostrils while retaining freshness. The nose demonstrates competent barrel integration within the age category constraints.

Palate Analysis

The entry is much softer than the nose, with caramel and oak leading the charge. Testing notes confirm smooth vanilla and citrus characteristics with integrated spice elements. The palate reveals natural semi-sweetness with dark chocolate, tobacco, spices and perhaps a smidge of peach. The flavor progression maintains structural balance despite the abbreviated aging profile.

Finish Assessment

The finish is medium long, defined by spice and oak with slight dryness and far less acidity than the entry-level expression. Quality assurance testing documented medium persistence with vanilla and gentle warmth characteristics. The finish is relatively short but fair considering the price point, providing adequate closure within category expectations.

Final Assessment

Cockspur 12 captures intense barrel flavor while maintaining balance, executing its role as accessible aged rum with technical competence. It’s absolutely sippable, but functions better as a premium mixer. The expression delivers reliable performance for whiskey drinkers seeking rum alternatives while maintaining authentic Barbadian character within its price segment.