Review by: The Auditor
Review #1132; Rum #451
Viche is a sugar cane spirit distilled in the county of Colombia. Until very recently the production of this sugar cane spirit was illegal, but thanks to changes in legislation it no longer is. Viche can only be produced by those of Afro-Colombian descent who live in the Colombian Pacific as it is part of their heritage and culture.
Monte Manglar comes from Soledad de Curay, Tumaco. It is a family owned distillery, with Maestro Ruperto Gonzalez Biojo being a 5th generation distiller. The fresh pressed cane comes from 3 types of cane, PIj2878, Cenicana, and Panapoi. The cane is manual cold pressed 100% estate grown cane juice and cold pressed. Fermentation occurs in plastic tubs with the family’s yeast culture. It is distilled on a small metal still to the final proof of 39%.
Distillery: Viche Monte Manglar
Bottler: Viche Monte Manglar
Region: Colombia
ABV: 39%
Nose: Lemon, slight sweetness, apple skin, nutmeg
Palate: Light mouthfeel, Lemon, slight sweetness, mint, apple skin
Finish: Short finish, brine, lemon, slight sweetness, mint, apple skin, nutmeg
Conclusion: As far as potential, there is a ton of it here. I don’t want to dictate how Colombian’s should drink their spirit they produce but man I wish this had just a little more proof. The cane flavor is pretty mild compared to other Viches I have tried, but it is still quite pleasant. The fruit is nice as is a bit of the spices. Overall it isn’t bad, but the other Viches have outclasses. However, it wouldn’t be bad as an introduction to Viche.
Final Score: 77
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 