F&G SRL Pichincha Ron-Rum 1999

Pichincha is an Ecuadorian single origin rum bottled by the Italian outfit F&G SRL, named for the volcano that looms over Quito. Distilled in 1999 and bottled at fourteen years of age, it comes from a country that sits well outside the usual rum map and rewards those curious about lesser known South American producers.

Made from molasses on a column still, it was matured in ex-bourbon casks and bottled at a gentle 40%. The result is soft and fruit driven, with candied red fruits, raisin and a clear barrel character on the palate, opening into a warm finish of sugar and dark chocolate. The texture is relaxed and rounded rather than powerful, the profile of an easygoing aged sipper rather than a high intensity cask strength bruiser. It makes an accessible introduction to Ecuadorian rum for anyone wanting to broaden their horizons gently.