Depaz VSOP Spéciale Réserve

Depaz sits at the foot of Mont Pelee near Saint-Pierre, distilling since 1917 on rich volcanic soil that the estate makes central to its identity. As an AOC Martinique rhum agricole it is made from fresh pressed cane juice rather than molasses, run off a creole column at low strength to preserve the grassy cane character, and the VSOP designation sets it at a minimum of four years in oak, with this bottling carrying a seven year statement.

Ex-bourbon ageing in the tropical climate brings vanilla, woody spice and a touch of citrus, while the agricole core keeps it dry and lightly earthy, finishing on white pepper, sugarcane and dark chocolate. The volcanic terroir story is genuine and the spirit is unsweetened, a textbook Martinique VSOP that shows the classic interplay of fresh cane, fruit and wood without overspending. Excellent neat, and the natural home of a well made Ti Punch.