Distilia Cuban Rum (The 5th Leaf) Cuban Soul Edition I 1992

Bottled by Distilia under its Cuban Soul Edition, this is a thirty one year old single cask from a 1992 vintage, presented at cask strength of sixty point nine percent. It is a rare and serious expression of Cuba, far removed from the light, easy rons the island is usually associated with, showing what three decades and full proof can do to a normally restrained spirit.

Matured in ex-bourbon wood, the long ageing and absence of dilution build a dense, concentrated profile, leather, caramel, malt and dark wood across nose and palate, with an earthy, barrel-driven finish and a notably oily, weighty texture. There is a dark sweetness underneath, but the dominant impression is of maturity, dryness and power. This is one for experienced drinkers chasing oak-driven Caribbean rum at its most muscular, a cigar-side sipper to be approached slowly and ideally coaxed open with a little water.