Clément VSOP Rhum Agricole

Oak, cinnamon, vanilla and grassy notes followed by sweet bourbon. Licorice,brandy,sweet almond paste with again a bourbon whiskey on the finish. This is a whiskey drinkers rum.

This is the best Rhum agricole I have tested so far. Strong sugar cane flavor but very smooth at the same time, perfect balance.

Since I just transitioned out of my job as we get ready to move, I decided it was time for some changes all around and invested in some well-regarded rums to branch out a bit in my aged spirits collection. I've heard good things said about the uniqueness of rhum agricole (rum produced from fresh sugarcane juice, not molasses or other refined cane sugar products), so I figured...why not? I mean, for pete's sake, most top shelf rum costs less than some entry level single malts...and you do get some bang for your buck with this little number. The nose is fruity and a bit roasty, with lots of banana, pineapple, and a bit of lime zest alongside woodiness. It's the palate, though, that sings of the unique character of rhum agricole - while things begin with ripe caramelized banana and grilled pineapple, the mid-palate begins to dry up with woodiness, leading into a delightfully peppery and vegetal finish that very specifically reminds me of watercress. The finish lingers and evolves over time, with the vegetal notes fading away and toasted wood and coffee beans coming in to take over. Really a fine, complex dram well worth the attention of even the most dedicated whiskey snob!

Purchased: 5/30/17 St. Thomas