Clarendon Rum Sponge No. 21B 2000

This Rum Sponge release from Decadent Drinks takes a single cask of Clarendon to 22 years, then bottles it at a modest 44.3% rather than cask strength. The low proof is the whole point, it dials back the heat and funk to foreground the fruit that long ageing brings out, making it a gentle stepping stone into the distillery.

Distilled from molasses and matured in ex-bourbon oak, the years show in a mellow, fruit led profile. The aroma is woody and herbal with mint and dried apricot, the palate turns woody and light with vanilla and dried fruit, and the finish stays soft on wood, dried fruit and orchard fruit. Reviewers note that the reduction brings out more fruit and less funk than a typical Clarendon, which some die hards find a touch weak but most enjoy as a relaxed sipper. A good choice for drinkers building their palate who find many indie Jamaicans too strong.