Admiral Rodney Officer’s Releases N2 2009

Admiral Rodney is Saint Lucia Distillers' flagship aged line, and this Officer's Releases edition takes 11 year old molasses rum from the 2009 vintage and finishes it in Irish whiskey casks. Bottled at 45 percent, it offers a touch of crossover character while keeping a measured, easygoing strength.

The whiskey casks lend a honeyed sweetness to the island fruit: prunes and dried fruit, ripe tropical notes, brown sugar and a lick of licorice, framed by clove and allspice with light smoke, oak and tobacco. Warmth stays moderate and the wood is well judged, sitting in support rather than dominating. It is a rewarding sipper for those who like characterful but gentle aged rum, with the Irish twist adding interest without ever turning aggressive.