La Favorite Rumclub Private Selection Ed. 19 Rhum Agricole VSOP 2017

Bottled by Spirit of Rum for the Rumclub Private Selection, this is a single cask La Favorite from a 2017 Martinique vintage, four years old and released at full cask strength, 53.9%, without added sugar. La Favorite is a small family distillery on the island, and this pick was selected to show its more powerful, fruit driven side rather than a delicate blanc.

Matured in ex bourbon oak, it carries dried and yellow fruits, baked apple and warm winter spice over the grassy, herbal backbone of fresh cane juice, with a light saline edge and a roasted, woody finish that runs long. There is real orchard depth here for the age, the extra proof lending weight without aggression. It drinks best neat in cooler weather as a slow sipper, a characterful four year VSOP with a clear agricole identity and genuine intensity for its years.