Yo ho ho, & a bottle of rum

Christchurch rum aficionados recently sampled cocktails created by internationally acclaimed mixologist Alastair Walker (pictured) and Matthew Barnsley.

E xclusive tastings at DramFest 2025 and the Austin Club showcased rare single-marque bottlings from
Appleton Estate’s Hearts Collection, including the 2002 and 1993 vintages, and the rare 17-Year-Old Legend.

“The appetite for premium, complex rums is growing in New Zealand, particularly among hospitality professionals looking for elevated cocktail ingredients, or those who appreciate a refined neat pour,” says Matthew.

“Appleton Estate’s rums are legendary for their rich, complex character and signature Jamaican funk,” adds Alastair.

He incorporated bold flavours with classic cocktail techniques to curate a bespoke Appleton Estate cocktail menu, including the Betsy Flanagan, Jamaican Hop, and Sloppy Joe’s Planters Punch. Here’s one of his cocktails to try:

Betsy Flanagan

• 2oz Appleton Estate 12-Year-Old Rare Cask rum
• 1oz Caretaker’s blended sweet vermouth
• 3 dashes Angostura bitters
• Stir and serve in a coupe, garnished with a spiced pinot noir
  and brandy cherry.