The Rums of Mexico Cana Criolla Rum (70cl, 51.9%)

A traditional Mexican sugarcane juice rum from the Rums of Mexico project, made by second-generation aguardientero Pedro Bautista in Zoquiapam Boca de los Rios, Oaxaca. It is made from heritage Criolla cane cultivated by Daniel Vega Santiago, with fresh-pressed juice fermented for more than 20 days in closed 1,100-litre tanks and distilled on a handmade, wood-fired four-plate copper still. Nothing is added after distillation. The producer's tech sheet notes sourdough, apricot and mango on the nose. The palate shows almond, currants, bubblegum and sour cherries, with the green cane, white pepper and dry, stony character of a long-fermented cane juice spirit. It is bottled at 51.9% ABV in a 700ml bottle.