Foursquare Rum Distillery has garnered significant acclaim at the 2026 International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC), winning five out of the twelve Gold Outstanding medals awarded to the finest rums worldwide. This recognition marks a pivotal moment for premium rum, underscoring its rising prominence while maintaining its strong Caribbean roots.

Out of 184 entrants, only a select few achieved Gold Outstanding status, a distinction that places these rums in contention for top honors at the IWSC’s annual awards celebration. The competition, founded in 1969, is esteemed globally, making this achievement particularly noteworthy. Foursquare’s five medals represent nearly half of the total Gold Outstanding awards, reinforcing their commitment to transparent production practices and aging processes.

The findings highlight the global expansion of rum, showcasing winners not only from traditional rum-producing regions like Barbados, Jamaica, and Guadeloupe but also from Japan and Scotland. This shift indicates a growing interest in rum as a collectible spirit akin to fine Scotch and bourbon, with many winning entries featuring impressive age statements.

Foursquare’s Achievements

Under the expert stewardship of master distiller Richard Seale, Foursquare has significantly influenced the landscape of rum, advocating for clarity in production and aging. This year, they dominated the aged rum category, producing five of the top seven aged rums acknowledged by the judges.

Notable Aged Rums of 2026

1. Foursquare Supernum 21 YO Rum (98 Points)
   A blend of pot and column still distillates, Supernum stands out for its balance of richness and elegance, demonstrating exemplary maturation over two decades.

2. Foursquare Epilogue 19 YO Rum (98 Points)
   This offering is part of Foursquare’s Exceptional Cask Selection, exhibiting robust flavors without additives, appealing especially to whisky aficionados.

3. Foursquare Mandamus 16 YO Rum (98 Points)
   Aged for sixteen years, Mandamus is characterized by a refined depth from its maturation under Barbados’ tropical conditions.

4. Foursquare Penultimus 15 YO Rum (98 Points)
   This expression highlights Foursquare’s hallmark of bold flavor and transparency, without the frills often found in marketing.

5. Foursquare Indomitas 15 YO Rum (98 Points)
   As the highest-proof in Foursquare’s lineup, Indomitas, meaning "untamed," combines maturity with a strong character.

Other contenders, such as the 12 YO Rare Single Cask Strength Rum from St. Nicholas Abbey and the MSR Limited Edition Single Mark 2007 Rum from Monymusk Plantation, also affirm that Barbados remains a vibrant hub for quality rum production.

Innovations in Cane Juice and Overproof Rums

This year’s competition saw noteworthy entries in both cane juice and overproof categories, reflecting diverse styles and bold flavors.

1. Le 55 Rhum (98 Points)
   Produced in Guadeloupe, Le 55 Rhum showcases the pure expression of fresh cane juice, capturing the terroir with every sip.

2. Japanese Rum from Shinozaki Co., Wild & South C 2 YO (98 Points)
   The emergence from Japan highlights a commitment to quality reminiscent of their whisky tradition.

3. Great House Distillery Edition 2025 (98 Points) and Overproof Rum from Worthy Park Estate, both from Jamaica, demonstrate the island’s powerful rum legacy, while the Original Islay Overproof Rum shines a light on innovative rum-making outside traditional territories.

The IWSC results not only celebrate the craftsmanship behind rum but also its increasing recognition within global spirits culture, confirming that premium rums are on a trajectory of growth and respect alongside their whisky counterparts.

For more details, visit the International Wine & Spirit Competition.