Bayou Mardi Gras XO Rum

Crafted in the heart of Louisiana’s sugarcane country, Bayou Mardi Gras XO is an ultra-premium American rum that celebrates Southern heritage and meticulous cask craft. Distilled in small batches and matured in ex-bourbon barrels before a final year in fine Pedro Ximénez sherry casks, it delivers depth, polish and a luxurious, gift-ready presentation. Rich, double-cask character makes this XO a refined sipper and a standout for spirit-forward cocktails.

Tasting Notes & Experience

Enticing aromas of cedar, plum and dried dark fruits with a lift of sandalwood. The palate is multi-layered: orange marmalade and blackcurrant glide into prune, oak and a gentle honeyed sweetness. Long, pleasantly dry finish with black pepper, sherry warmth and a touch of floral honey.

Key Details

• Distillery: Bayou Rum Distillery
• Type: Dark Extra-Old (XO) Rum
• Region: Louisiana, USA
• ABV: 40%
• Volume: 700ml
• Stills: Pot stills
• Aging: Double-cask: bourbon barrels (up to 5 years) then 1 year PX sherry
• Signature Serve: Neat or over a large cube

Cocktail Pairings

Rum Old Fashioned (demerara & bitters over rich oak); El Presidente (elegant, sherry-tinged depth); Old Cuban (mint, lime and champagne lift); Hurricane (a New Orleans classic with XO richness); Jungle Bird (bitter-sweet tropical balance); XO Manhattan (vermouth & spice over dried-fruit warmth).

Craftsmanship & Story

Founded by three friends in 2011, Bayou revived America’s original spirit where sugarcane has grown since the 1700s. Distilled and aged on site in Lacassine, the rum rests first in ex-bourbon casks, then finishes in PX sherry wood for layered fruit, oak and spice—bottled as a proudly Louisianan XO with modern precision and timeless Southern soul.

Special Features

Authentic Louisiana provenance; double-cask maturation (bourbon then PX sherry) for dried-fruit richness and long, dry finish; deep mahogany colour and premium presentation; crafted for sipping yet bold enough to elevate classic, spirit-forward cocktails—an ideal statement gift.

Recognition & Accolades

This rum has garnered global acclaim, recognised by critics and competitions alike:

• Gold: San Francisco World Spirits Competition, 2019

Celebrated for its refined double-cask profile and elegant Southern character.

Perfect for Gifting or Sipping

A luxurious XO for milestone birthdays, anniversaries and corporate gifting—supple neat, composed over ice and superb in an Old Fashioned or El Presidente.

Fast, Secure NZ-Wide Delivery

Order online for fast NZ delivery. Lovingly packed with a selection of stylish packaging and a personal message option to complete the perfect gift.