2013 Transcontinental Rum Line Guadeloupe Rum (700ml)

Tasting note: Cane juice rums (agricoles) are the norm for Guadeloupe and the French Caribbean in general, but since they can only be produced seasonally, distilleries have always processed molasses rums to make ends meet. This one was aged for three years in the tropics and for close to one more year in Europe (making it 3.9 years old). The nose has presence without being heavy, developing aromas of banana cake, icing sugar, candied fruits and faint menthol. The palate is oily and mouthfilling, with caney / grassy freshness and off-dry fruity flavours hinting at papaya and plantain. Ends delicate and nuanced. Molasses based but tastes a bit funky and 'agricoley' - along the lines of a middle-aged Damoiseau with complexity beyond expectations. 43% Alc./Vol. No additives.