Dugas La Maison du Rhum 2007

This Panama is part of Dugas's La Maison du Rhum range, distilled in 2007 and aged fifteen years before bottling at a generous 55%. It is a column still molasses rum in the soft Panamanian mould, the kind of mellow, vanilla and caramel spirit that the country's dominant distillery is known for, but the higher strength gives it more presence than the usual 40% Panama.

Maturation in ex-bourbon has built a sweet but balanced profile rather than a cloying one. The nose offers sweet caramel, wood and dried fruit, the palate is spicy, woody and well balanced with a sweet core, and the finish carries soft tannins, warmth and a minty lift. Tasters describe creamy milk chocolate, raisin and tangerine alongside gentle spice and vanilla, with the alcohol well judged at this proof. Added sugar is not disclosed, but it reads as a rounded, characterful Panama that holds together nicely neat.