Mainland Rum is a new independent bottler focused entirely on Rum made in the Mainland US (i.e. not from more well known Rum Producing islands like Puerto Rico and Hawaii).This rum was pot-distilled from molasses by Stark Spirits in Pasadena, CA in 2016, and laid down in 53 gallon ex-Bourbon barrels, where it aged patiently for 9 years. Stark Spirits, founded by Greg Stark and Karen Robinson-Stark in 2013, is a true micro-distillery – just 1200 square feet of space – run by the husband and wife duo. At 9 years and a full cask strength of 60.9% abv, what a knockout it is! The nose is rich, big, and inviting, with sweeter notes of toffee, vanilla creme, almond orgeat, nutella, and pastry crust sitting alongside juicy fruit notes of apricot, apple tart, and even a hint of pineapple. The palate follows through on the best of these olfactory promises, with a fantastic blend of oak spice, sweetness, and fruit character. The slightly peppery kick of oak is in harmony with apple notes, both apple skin and a hint of tart green apple – this reminds us of some Foursquare releases of yesteryear (think Vintage 2004). The pot still here is lending big flavor and richness, but nary a whiff of funk – this rum is more in line with the palate of blended pot-column rums, rather than the funky-industrial pot still monsters of Jamaica, St. Lucia, or Fiji. The finish brings out the pineapple notes, but not so much snappy fresh pineapple. We’re getting canned pineapple juice, with rings of vanilla and burnt sugar in and out of focus around fruity richness.