Bielle Rhum Vieux Agricole (Double Distillation) 2011

This Bielle Rhum Vieux from Marie-Galante is set apart by its double distillation, an unusual choice that gives the spirit extra weight before maturation. Drawn from a 2011 vintage and pressed from fresh sugar-cane juice rather than molasses, it is certified unsweetened in the agricole tradition.

Matured in ex-bourbon oak, eleven years in cask have rounded it into an easy, characterful sipper rather than an oak bomb: brioche, candied and tropical fruit on the nose, then a round, sweet-edged palate of orange and yellow fruit with almond and gentle bourbon oak, finishing on honey, orange and earth. The natural sweetness comes from the cane and the cask rather than any additive. At a gentle 45% it drinks like a relaxed summer rum, balanced and approachable, a smooth introduction to aged agricole for unhurried neat sipping.