Famille Ricci Zodiac 2023 Gemeaux 2007

Famille Ricci is a French house known for characterful selections, and this Zodiac Gemeaux blend brings together pot still rums from multiple distilleries, including Jamaican Worthy Park and an Australian component, aged to sixteen years and bottled at a robust 63.5%. The Worthy Park rounds and sweetens the blend, while the assembly gives a rich, barrel driven character.

Matured in ex bourbon, the nose shows caramelised oak, vanilla and licorice, and the palate brings smoke, fruit, coffee and chocolate over a firm barrel base, finishing on tobacco, pear and black pepper. The high strength means the alcohol is assertive and, for some, can edge toward dominating the lighter Worthy Park notes, so water helps. An intriguing, well constructed cuvee that flew somewhat under the radar, suited to drinkers who enjoy powerful, smoky, oak forward blends with a Jamaican accent.