Description
Australia’s First Schizosaccharomyces japonicus Rum
Most rum in the world is fermented using the same family of yeast.
This spirit is not.
Special Release No. 1 of our Australis Editions range showcases Schizosaccharomyces japonicus—an exceptionally rare fission yeast that sits at the heart of The Cairns Rum Company story.
Following years of research, isolation, cultivation and production-scale development, we are proud to present Australia’s first rum produced using this remarkable microorganism.
Unlike conventional rum yeasts, S. japonicus creates a distinctive aromatic profile defined by spice, texture and complexity. By presenting a small quantity of this spirit unaged, we allow its fermentation character to stand entirely on its own—unmasked by oak and experienced exactly as it emerged from our double-retort pot still.
This release offers a rare opportunity to explore the direct influence of an extraordinary yeast on flavour and aroma, while showcasing the scientific curiosity and experimentation that define The Cairns Rum Company.
As with our other Australis Editions release, only a small portion of this batch will be bottled unaged. The remainder will be carefully filled into oak barrels and laid down for full tropical maturation, before returning in the years ahead as an entirely different expression of the same remarkable spirit.
Tasting Notes
An intensely aromatic spirit that showcases the remarkable character of S. japonicus fermentation.
Concentrated tropical spice leads the way, followed by tobacco, leather and black banana, layered with dark berry fruit. The palate is rich, vibrant and generously textured, carrying the spirit’s distinctive character effortlessly from nose to finish.
Powerful yet balanced, it remains clean and focused, with a long, evolving finish that continues to reveal itself well after the final sip.
Note – This spirit is currently not available, however another batch has been scheduled for the 2026 cane crushing season. An update will be provided in due course.
