Review #1049; Rum #377
This sample was provided to me by a producer, distributor, or some other industry source free-of-charge, La Maison and Velier in this case. No compensation, outside of the sample, was received and there were no strings attached. You can read our full statement of Ethics & Transparency at this link.
Here we have the kind of sugar cane spirit that really gets me excited. On the island of Cabo Verde local sugar cane spirits are known as Grogue. This spirit is distilled at this tiny producer by Manuel Barbosa Amado. This rum is made from fresh crushed cane juice, distilled on a tiny pot still, fermented for a long period of time, and then after distillation is rested for 3 months to a year before being bottled at still strength of 45%. This is akin to some mezcal producers as well as Viche, so this should be fun to try.
Distillery: Barbosa
Bottler: La Maison & Velier
Region: Cabo Verde
Still: Copper Pot Still
ABV: 45%.
Price: $60.00
Nose: Strong lemon peel, Lime Juice, bell pepper, green apple, olive oil, floral,
Palate: Medium oily mouthfeel, Lime Juice, Olive oil, bell pepper, sea salt, minerality, earthy
Finish: Long finish, sea salt, minerality, bell pepper, lemon peel, green apple, earthy
Conclusion: This is excellent stuff. The aromas burst out of the glass, filling the air with flowers, citrus, and savory spices. The palate is the same with a strong backbone of briney olives and the similar citrus and fruit to cut against it. The finish lasts a good while with the salinity being the last to fade. Overall, its no surprise to anyone who has read my reviews that a long fermentation cane juice rum was going to be enjoyed by me.
Final Score: 91
Scoring Legend:
- 95-100: As good as it gets. Jaw-dropping, eye-widening, unforgettable whisky.
- 90-94: Sublime, a personal favorite in its category.
- 85-89: Excellent, a standout dram.
- 80-84: Quite good. Quality stuff.
- 75-79: Decent whisky worth tasting.
- 70-74: Meh. It’s definitely drinkable, but it can do better.
- 60-69: Not so good. I might not turn down a glass if I needed a drink.
- 50-59: Save it for mixing.
- 0-49: Blech.
Malt Runners 