Cockspur

Cockspur Rum is a legendary Barbadian brand with origins dating back to 1884, founded by Danish sea captain Valdemar Hanschell. Hanschell initially established a chandlery in Barbados to supply ships, which ultimately led to the creation of his own rum brand.

Production and blending take place at the West Indies Rum Distillery (WIRD) in Brighton, Black Rock, Barbados. Cockspur utilizes both molasses-based rums from column stills and heavier pot still rums for its more robust expressions. The rums are aged in oak barrels, their maturation influenced by the tropical climate, and proofed with water drawn from coral aquifers to ensure purity and character.

Ownership of Cockspur has changed hands over the years—from Hanschell Larson to Hanschell Innis—and, in 1973, the brand was acquired by Goddard Enterprises, a prominent Barbados-based conglomerate that continues to oversee Cockspur’s distribution and brand presence today.

Cockspur’s acclaimed portfolio features several core expressions:

• Cockspur Fine Rum: A lighter golden rum, known for its approachable style and versatility.

  
  

• Cockspur Spiced Rum: A lively spiced expression, infused with warming spices and flavors to broaden its appeal.

  
  

• Cockspur “Old Gold Special Reserve” and aged expressions (such as the 12-Year and VSOR): Crafted for premium, mature palates, these rums offer depth, complexity, and a refined finish.

Cockspur enjoys deep cultural ties in Barbados and is famously associated with cricket—sponsoring events and earning the nickname “the cricketer’s rum.”