Compagnie des Indes Mauritius 9 Year Old Rum (70cl, 42%)

A 9-year-old dark rum from Mauritius. Until the beginning of the 2000s, Mauritian law dating from the British colonial era enforced distillers to distil at high ABV, above 93%, and the island has since experienced a true revival, with historic distillers producing quality aromatic rums for the export market. The nose is like a stroll through spice stalls, with black pepper, cumin, rice and starchy notes, plus sweetness and salted caramel aromas. The palate is well-rounded and fruity, developing red berries such as strawberries and gooseberries, then pure cane juice, evoking its raw material. The finish is surprisingly bitter, giving a delicious balance.