Plantation (LMDW) 2010

From Maison Ferrand's Planteray range, this is a 2010 Jamaican blend of Worthy Park and New Yarmouth distillate, aged twelve years and bottled at full proof, 61.4%. While Ferrand's mainstream Planteray bottlings are openly dosed, this cask-strength release is certified unsweetened, which is worth surfacing.

Molasses-based and pot still, it bursts with overripe pineapple, mango and tropical fruit on the nose, with esters in support, then carries that fruit onto the palate alongside citrus, caramel and varnish. The cognac-cask ageing pulls it drier and slightly tannic, adding firm toasted oak that balances the fruit. The result is a fuller, more wood-framed Jamaican than the sweeter cocktail Planteray, with real proof behind it. A good pour for drinkers who like full-proof island blends but want a drier, cognac-finished angle.