Dr. Clyde Le Massacre

Dr. Clyde is a Belgian producer making rum the agricole way, from fresh pressed sugar cane juice run through a pot still, though sitting outside the French islands it is best described as agricole style rather than a protected rhum agricole. This Le Massacre bottling is unaged and built to show the raw cane spirit at full volume.

The nose is charming and floral with fresh cut cane to the fore, while the palate turns to sugarcane, a spirity warmth, spice and a sweet edge, the finish taking an unusual turn into fresh dairy, yoghurt and floral notes. The cane here is earthy and green, reminiscent of wet grass after mowing, a profile that sets it apart from the classic French island blancs. At a punchy 55% and unsweetened, it is an idiosyncratic, characterful cane juice rum that rewards curious drinkers, lively neat in small pours and a distinctive base for a Ti Punch.