By the Dutch Batavia Arrack 8 Years is a unique spirit that revives a centuries-old tradition originating on the island of Java, Indonesia. It is not a rum in the conventional sense, but an "Arrack," a molasses distillate that stands out for the use of a specific yeast obtained from fermented Indonesian red rice during the production process. This 8-year aging represents the most refined and complex version of the range.
By the Dutch - Batavia Arrack 8 Years
The Batavia Arrack 8 Years is a spirit rich in history, its name derived from the port of Batavia (modern-day Jakarta), a nerve center of Dutch trade in the 17th century. This spirit is produced from local sugarcane molasses, whose fermentation is activated by Javanese red rice cakes. After distillation in ancient "Pot Still" alembics, the heart of the distillate is transported to the Netherlands, where it undergoes an 8-year aging period in oak barrels.
This long rest tames the wild and "funky" character typical of young Arrack, enriching it with elegant woody notes and transforming it into a meditative spirit that lies between a great Rum and a characterful Whisky.
Sensory Profile
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Color: Intense gold with warm amber reflections.
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Nose: The bouquet is powerful and absolutely distinctive. It opens with notes of ripe exotic fruit, leather, and hay, followed by a complex spiciness reminiscent of cinnamon, cardamom, and clove. A earthy and slightly fungal note emerges on the finish, an inimitable signature of fermented red rice.
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Palate: On the palate, it is dry, deep, and structured. The sweetness of the cane is merely hinted at, immediately balanced by a decisive minerality and hints of toasted oak, nuts, and bitter orange peel. The consistency is oily and fills the palate with an extraordinary aromatic power.
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Finish: Extremely persistent and dry, with a return of oriental spices and a slightly smoky aftertaste.
Production Process Distilled in Indonesia in pot stills, it is then shipped to Amsterdam for maturation. The 8-year aging takes place in traditional oak barrels, under the supervision of Dutch master blenders who manage the final blend to ensure consistent quality and depth.
Serving Suggestions (Mixology) While its 8-year aging makes it perfect for sipping neat in a rum glass, mixologists use it as a secret ingredient to give classic cocktails an "extra kick." It is excellent for ennobling a Batavia Punch or as a rum substitute in an Old Fashioned for those seeking a spicier and less refreshing profile.
Technical Data
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Producer: By the Dutch
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Type: Batavia Arrack (Molasses and Red Rice Distillate)
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Origin: Java Island (Indonesia) / Matured in the Netherlands
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Aging: 8 years in oak barrels
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Raw Material: Sugarcane molasses and red rice yeast
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Alcohol Content: 48% Vol.
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Format: 70 cl
