Old Brothers Bielle R.B.P 2022

Bottled by the French independent Old Brothers, this R.B.P is a 2022 Marie-Galante agricole from Bielle, a high-proof white pressed from fresh sugarcane juice and released at 59.59%. Bielle is known for its cane-variety work and assertive blancs, and Marie-Galante's custom of bottling white rum strong shows fully here.

Distilled on a column still run low to preserve the vegetal cane congeners and left unaged, it keeps a thick, oily texture and explosive freshness. The nose carries sugarcane, a metallic streak, vegetal and buttery notes, with a medicinal edge and a touch of brioche dough. The palate is round and balanced with sugarcane and a vegetal snap, and the finish brings pear, apple, that metallic note and a buttery weight. The added-sugar status is not documented and the profile reads dry. Powerful yet balanced, it makes a vivid Ti' Punch and stands up neat for experienced drinkers.