Famille Ricci Zodiac 2023 Bélier

Zodiac 2023 Bélier from Famille Ricci blends two opposites, Hampden's DOK, the highest ester marque from Jamaica, and a softer, rounder rum from Panama. Bottled at fifteen years and a powerful cask strength 59.3%, it sets wild Jamaican funk against dessert like sweetness for a striking contrast.

The DOK lends ripe pineapple, mango and intense esters, while the Panama side brings caramelised pastry, chocolate and a softer, sweeter frame. The nose is aromatic and fruity, the palate carries pineapple, vanilla, dried fruit and mango, and the finish turns to candied and tropical fruit over toasted barrel. The blend tames Hampden's ferocity with rounded sweetness without losing its character, landing between a full throttle Jamaican rum and an approachable sipper. At full strength it has plenty of presence, and it rewards drinkers who enjoy high ester funk softened just enough to sip with ease.