Savanna Créol Straight 2020

Savanna's Creol Straight 2020 is the cane-juice expression from the Reunion distillery, distilled from fresh sugarcane juice on a column still and bottled overproof at 67.4%. Savanna makes several rum families, and this is the agricole-style blanc, certified unsweetened, an unaged white aimed at experienced palates who want their cane raw and powerful.

The nose is intense and grassy with pepper, anise and a green olive note, the palate keeping that olive and cane character alongside licorice and a fermented, herbal edge, joined by citrus, tropical fruit, a mineral salt and a light smoke. The finish stays fresh, peppery and olive-driven. At this strength it demands water or a cocktail, and many find it shines diluted, the herbal and floral character opening up. A bold, high-proof Reunion blanc for serious mixing, especially a dry Ti' Punch, or focused sipping with a generous splash.