Dugas Hacienda Coloma La Maison du Rhum #3 2008

This is the third numbered Colombia release in Dugas's La Maison du Rhum range, drawn from Hacienda Coloma and distilled from molasses on a column still in the soft, approachable Spanish style. Vintage 2008 and carrying twelve years of age, it sits at a natural 46% rather than the watered-down 40% common to the category, which gives it a touch more grip on the palate.

Maturation is ex-bourbon, the standard choice for aged molasses rum, and the wood shows in roasted, nutty tones over milk chocolate and a thread of dried fruit. The palate leans on oak, grape and a general fruitiness with a woody backbone, finishing spiced and long with a faint coffee edge and a sour twist that keeps it from reading purely sweet. Added sugar is not disclosed, but the profile drinks more savoury and barrel led than dessert like, a reasonable neat pour for drinkers exploring South American rum.