French West Indies VO Rhum Agricole (70cl, 46%)

French West Indies VO is a Rhum Agricole made in the French Antilles from fermented pure sugar cane juice, distilled in a traditional Creole column. It matures for at least three years under tropical conditions in American oak before further ageing in Europe. VO stands for Very Old. The 2022 release is number 54 in the Transcontinental Rum Line and is bottled at 46% in a 0.7 litre bottle, with an orange gift box bearing a ship motif. It contains no added sugar or colouring. The rum is fresh and herb-led on the nose, with strong floral aromas and cooked sugar cane syrup. The palate combines a fine, spicy character with honey and pepper, and the finish is long and gentle, with noble wood notes.