Cartavio Plantation 2006 (One-Time Limited Edition

This Cartavio distillate is a one-time, single-barrel Plantation release bottled by Maison Ferrand, drawn from Peru with a 2006 vintage and a fourteen year age. Cartavio works in the soft Spanish style, distilling from molasses across column and pot stills, and Maison Ferrand's double ageing in cognac wood adds a layer of richness to the base. As with the house generally, expect some dosage in the profile.

The nose carries vanilla, caramel, dried fruit and figs, the palate is sweet with caramel, vanilla and a woody edge, and the finish brings wood, dark chocolate, spice and dried fruit. It drinks soft, velvety and easy, a comforting neat pour or relaxed daily dram for those who enjoy Millonario style or Zacapa style softness but want a touch more oak. The single-barrel origin gives it a little extra character, though the appeal stays rooted in smooth, sweet leaning ease rather than intensity.