Damoiseau XO

Damoiseau is the largest distillery in Guadeloupe and a major export name, and this XO is a seven year aged agricole made from fresh sugarcane juice under the island's IGP. Bottled at an approachable 42 percent, it is built for easy, woody drinking rather than full proof power.

Distilled on a creole column and matured in ex-bourbon wood, it carries light grassy and hay notes alongside dried fruit, vanilla and a dry, lightly smoky oak frame. The palate is woody and gently dry with vanilla and a wisp of smoke, the fruit a touch shy until it opens with air. The finish stays woody and spiced. Not a loud rum, but a floral, balanced and unpretentious aged agricole that rewards a little patience in the glass.