Ferroni Galion Grand Arome FR 2016

This is a Grand Arome from Galion in Martinique, a high ester molasses rum bottled by the French house Maison Ferroni, known for unsweetened cask strength releases double matured in Provence. Despite Martinique's agricole fame, Grand Arome is a molasses based, long fermentation style built for intensity, and at five years and a blazing 63% this single cask delivers exactly that.

Fermented long to generate a wide spectrum of esters, then aged in ex bourbon oak, it pours dense and aromatic: banana and tropical fruit, olive and brine, caramelised pastry and a smoky, almost burnt empyreumatic edge. The funk is forward but well supported by barrel sweetness and wood. Unsweetened and full proof, this is a powerhouse for experienced drinkers who chase high ester rum in the English heavy tradition, equally at home sipped slowly with water or anchoring a bold cocktail.