Rhum Bielle Vieux 2008 (70cl, 55.1%)

A 13-year-old rhum agricole from Bielle, distilled in 2008 from pure sugar cane juice and aged in former bourbon casks in the tropical climate of Marie-Galante. Four matured rums were blended for the bottling, which was released in 2021 at 55.1% ABV without dilution. Bielle has produced rhum agricole on Marie-Galante since 1910, beginning with freshly hand-cut sugar cane. The 2008 vintage was column-distilled, and Bielle is both producer and bottler. The limited edition comprises 995 numbered carafes of 70cl, each in gift packaging. The nose shows honey, spices and vanilla. The palate combines cooked fruit with toasted bread and a silky mouthfeel. The finish is long, with vanilla notes and a light woody tone.