30 Sep Rum aging techniques Reverse Finishing

Posted at 09:17h in news by clientlogin

Rum aging techniques - Reverse Finishing with Dos Maderas Origen Thailand

Where you’ve been and how you’ve aged is what reveals a soul. Meet Dos Maderas Origen Thailand—a first-of-its-kind release in a rare annual series that’s reshaping how great rum is made. Aged 12 years in Thailand, then finished in 80-year-old Oloroso sherry casks in Jerez, Spain, this rum from Thailand is a bold expression of dual heritage and expert craft.

Rum aging techniques: The art of reverse finishing

At the heart of this release is a groundbreaking rum aging technique called reverse finishing. Instead of shipping seasoned barrels to the distillery, the rum travels to the barrels’ birthplace.

Traditional Rum Aging vs Dos Maderas Origen

Most rum aging techniques involve tropical climates and ex-bourbon barrels. Heat and humidity accelerate the interaction between spirit and wood, producing fast, bold flavor. Finishing usually happens in sherry or port barrels—shipped from Spain or Portugal to the rum producer.

Dos Maderas Thailand does it differently. After 12 years aging in Thailand’s tropical climate, the rum is transported to Jerez for final maturation. There, it rests in the same sherry casks where the wood’s story began—bringing the rum to the oak, not the oak to the rum.

What Makes Rum from Thailand Unique?

Thailand’s intense heat and humidity create a concentrated, full-bodied spirit. Constant barrel interaction builds complexity, with deep notes of spice, fruit, and wood. Even before its journey to Spain, this rum from Thailand is world-class. The Jerez finish only adds depth.

Reverse Finishing Rum Technique Explained

Reverse finishing reimagines how rum is aged by sending the spirit to the source of the barrel’s character. In this case:

Aging begins in Thailand: fast, bold, tropical maturation
Finishing happens in Spain: slow, oxidative, and wine-soaked
The result: a balanced, multi-layered rum unlike anything else

The Role of 80-Year-Old Oloroso Sherry Casks

What truly sets Dos Maderas Origen Thailand apart is the use of century-old, 500-liter Oloroso sherry butts. These casks, seasoned over decades at Bodegas Williams & Humbert, deliver:

Rich flavors of dried fruit, almond, leather, and vellichor
Gentle oxidation through Jerez’s coastal winds with a light salinity
A maturation style passed down through generations

Introducing Dos Maderas Origen: A Global Series Begins

The Dos Maderas Origen series is an annual, limited-edition collector’s release. Each edition highlights a different origin, united by the shared finishing method in Jerez. Only 4,000 bottles of this first release are available worldwide.

Why Thailand Marks the Start

Thailand’s deep reverence for balance and vibrant culinary culture made it the perfect launch point. From tamarind and pandan to bird’s eye chili, Thai flavor profiles echo throughout the rum. Dos Maderas Thailand honors that identity with world-class rum craftsmanship and global vision.

Tasting Notes: Complex and Layered

Appearance: This 47% ABV rum pours deep amber with flashes of old gold. Bold yet elegant, it reflects its journey across continents.

On the Nose: Expect layers of burnt caramel, roasted coffee, citrus oils, and toasted spice, along with subtle hints of fermented tamarind and Thai umami.

On the Palate: Waves of rich toffee, dark chocolate, lemongrass, and coconut roll across the tongue. A long, dry finish lingers with salinity, nutty warmth, and restrained sweetness.

Signature Serves: A Taste of Thailand, Reimagined

We’ve reworked two timeless cocktails with bold Thai influence, built around the character of Origen Thailand. Find the recipes on our website.

Pandan Old Fashioned

Old-school build, Thai soul. Origen Thailand, pandan syrup, and aromatic bitters. Earthy and smooth, with pandan’s signature blend of toasted coconut, vanilla, and fresh-cut green.

Bird’s Eye Mojito

A spicy twist on a classic. Origen Thailand with fresh lime, sugar, mint, and a hit of bird’s eye chili. Bright, cool, and just enough fire to wake the senses.

More Than a Rum: A Statement of Craft and Culture

Dos Maderas Origen Thailand is a reclamation of tradition, authenticity, and terroir. It’s about precision, culture, and a bold approach to different rum aging techniques. By embracing reverse finishing, it stands at the crossroads of innovation and tradition—honoring the past while building something entirely new.

Behind the Vision: Q&A with Gonzalo Medina

To understand the thinking behind Origen, we spoke to Gonzalo Medina, International Marketing Director of Dos Maderas.

Q: Why reverse finishing?

Gonzalo: “You’re not just borrowing flavor—you’re letting the place where the barrel was born shape the final chapter. It brings a level of authenticity few finishes achieve.”

Q: What stood out about rum from Thailand?

Gonzalo: “The intensity. After 12 years in the heat, it was already powerful. We wanted a spirit that could carry a story. This one had attitude.”

Q: What’s next for Origen?

Gonzalo: “Every edition tells a different story. It’s not about trends. It’s about legacy.”

A Collector’s Bottle Worth the Hunt

Whether you’re curating a rare spirits shelf, hosting a tasting, or searching for a one-of-a-kind gift, Dos Maderas Thailand delivers. With strict allocation and global demand, this release is both rare and refined—meant to be enjoyed now or cellared for years to come.

Be the First: How to Get Your Bottle

Only a limited number of bottles will be available in select markets. Collectors and bartenders worldwide are watching closely. Follow us on Instagram to stay ahead. This bottle will not be repeated.

Author: Chantal Tseng, Bar-Somm, Washington DC