Chamarel VSOP

Chamarel distils on Mauritius from fresh pressed sugar cane, so while it sits outside the French AOC and is best called agricole style, the cane juice character is genuine. This VSOP blends pot and column still spirit, ages around five years in ex bourbon oak and is bottled at a mild 41%, a deliberately approachable expression.

The nose leans woody with vanilla, caramel and a clear grape note, more brandy adjacent than classic grassy cane. The palate turns drier and a touch peppery, with the wood prominent and the cane sitting quietly beneath, before a light, fruity, spiced finish. At this strength it is easygoing and undemanding, an accessible bridge for drinkers coming from soft agricoles or light brandies, though those wanting fuller body may find it a little thin and oak led.