First Impressions
Wild Oxen Spiced Rum comes from Abingdon Distillery in Oxfordshire, bringing together a blend of seven spices including warming cinnamon, nutmeg, and toasted coconut chips. It sits in the increasingly competitive English spiced rum category, competing against both craft and commercial offerings.
Tasting
The nose is dominated by warm baking spices. Cinnamon leads confidently, with toasted coconut and nutmeg providing supporting roles. Vanilla adds sweetness, and there's a caramel note that ties things together. It's a familiar, comforting nose.
The palate follows the nose faithfully. Cinnamon warmth is the star, with nutmeg and toasted coconut chips adding texture and interest. Vanilla sweetness runs through the mid-palate, clove adds a gentle bite, and allspice provides a pleasant tingle. At 40%, it's smooth and approachable, designed for easy drinking.
The finish is medium with warming cinnamon, coconut, and a gentle spiced fade. Clean and uncomplicated.
The Bottom Line
At £33.95, Wild Oxen Spiced is a solid if unspectacular entry in the English craft spiced rum space. It does what it sets out to do — deliver warming, comforting spiced rum that works well with cola or ginger beer. The seven-spice blend is well-balanced, even if it doesn't break new ground.
