Distillerie d’Indochine Sampan Blanc

Sampan Blanc is a Vietnamese agricole-style rum from Distillerie d'Indochine, distilled from fresh sugarcane juice on a column still. Outside the French islands the protected term does not apply, so this reads as pure cane-juice rum, unaged and bottled at a fierce 65%, unsweetened and aimed at a drinker who wants cane at full volume.

The profile is built on freshness and power, the nose marked by sugarcane with citrus, floral and vegetal notes. The palate keeps the cane and lime front and centre with a warm, building heat, the finish strong and peppery with a chili bite and a perfumed edge. Some find it close to a fruit eau-de-vie in its purity. At this strength it rewards patience and water, the length and saline depth emerging as it opens. A vivid blanc for neat sipping with dilution or for cocktails that can take the proof.