A Crewe-based online barbecue business is expanding into the spirits market with the launch of a new small-batch rum this May.

Howard and Samantha Carter, owners of The Smokey Carter in Wistaston, have announced their first release under a new sub-brand, The Smokey Cartel.

The new product is a Flame Roasted Pineapple Spiced Rum, going on sale at 9am on Friday 1 May.

The Crewe couple have spent nearly 13 years building a reputation on the UK BBQ circuit for their rubs and sauces.

This new venture marks a move into distilled spirits, with production based in the UK.

The rum is designed to reflect the brand's live-fire cooking style. Pineapples are spit-roasted over charcoal and caramelised before being infused into a spiced rum base.

Howard told Nub News: "Most rums are flavoured; ours is forged. We start with a premium, small-batch spiced rum distilled right here in the UK.

"Then, we introduce pineapples spit-roasted over open charcoal.

"By flame-scorching the fruit to the point of caramelisation, we unlock a rich, smoky complexity that traditional spiced rums simply can't reach."

The spirit also includes cinnamon, orange peel, lime peel, dried ginger, tonka bean and vanilla. It is bottled at 42 per cent ABV.

It will be available online-only from 1 May via The Smokey Carter website.

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