Saint James VSOP (70cl, 43%)

A rhum agricole from Saint James, aged for at least four years under tropical conditions in the cellars of Saint James on Martinique. It matures in new oak casks and used ex-Bourbon casks, and carries the AOC Martinique protected designation. The assemblage combines this cask ageing with the character of a rhum agricole made from pure sugar cane juice. It is bottled at 43% ABV in a 70cl bottle. In the glass it is clear and mahogany-coloured, with cocoa, spices and wood alongside candied and preserved fruit. It suits neat drinking or an Old Fashioned with rum. Nose: cocoa and spices first, with fine wood and vanilla notes, then candied and preserved fruit. Palate: roasted notes with vanilla and cinnamon, with candied fruit around the spicy interplay. Finish: long and smooth, with a subtle oak note.