J. Bally Brut de Fût 2004

Bottled by the J. Bally estate itself, this is a single vintage Martinique agricole drawn from 2004 and matured close to eighteen years, the kind of old AOC rhum where tropical ageing has long since pushed the spirit past its stated years. Distilled from fresh cane juice rather than molasses, it carries the dry, woody signature that aged agricole takes on, with none of the sweetness of a Spanish style ron. It arrives at full proof and unsweetened, true to the AOC.

The creole column keeps the grassy cane core alive even after so long in Ex-Bourbon wood, and time has layered it with dark notes of varnish and glue, dried fruit, coffee and cherry. The palate is woody and astringent with cinnamon and spice on the finish, a spirit that demands long aeration and a patient glass rather than a quick pour. This is one for drinkers who already love old Bally or Saint James at full strength and want the style pushed darker and drier still.