Batavia Arrack van Oosten

Batavia Arrack Van Oosten is a bold, funky Indonesian sugarcane spirit from Java that’s made by fermenting molasses with a small amount of red Javanese rice (the rice-driven fermentation is what gives it that distinctive “hogo” complexity you don’t get from most rum).  Bottled at high proof (commonly listed around 48–50% ABV depending on the reference), it comes across intensely aromatic and savory: floral and herbal on the nose with a slightly woody/sawdust vibe, then a fast-moving palate of bread-dough funk, basil/bay, kaffir-lime-like citrus, saffron-y spice, and a dry, layered finish that’s earthy and peppery rather than sweet.  It’s historically famous as a punch ingredient and a key flavor in Swedish punsch culture, and today it’s a secret weapon for tiki and spice-forward drinks when you want to add depth and a wild, tropical-fermentation edge without just using another standard white rum.