Arrack - Batavia arrack

Reference

Java (Indonesia), Batavia (historical Jakarta)

ABV48-50%. Traditionally bottled at 48%. Some at 50%.

Sub-styles

Batavia Arrack Indonesian Arrack Punch Arrack

Tasting Notes

Malt, sugarcane, tropical funk, banana, musty rice, slightly medicinal, raw cane, smoke, vegetal. Closest comparison is rhum agricole with a malty finish. The red rice fermentation creates unique ester profiles. Softens dramatically in punch or diluted cocktails.

Brand Guide

Well

Batavia Arrack van Oosten ($30-38)

Premium

By the Dutch Batavia Arrack ($42-55). The market is essentially two brands. Van Oosten is pungent and raw; By the Dutch is aged and smoother. Choose based on application

Explore Spirits

The Story

Indonesian sugarcane and red rice spirit, the original backbone of colonial-era punch bowls.