Grays New Grove Savoir Faire Double Cask Acacia

New Grove is the rum brand of the Mauritian producer Grays, and this Savoir Faire is a molasses based rum aged eight years, with an unusual second maturation in acacia casks alongside the usual oak. Mauritian rum sits outside the agricole appellations even when made from cane, and this expression is squarely a fruit forward molasses style, bottled at 47%.

The acacia wood is the talking point, adding spice and a touch of tannin and bitterness to New Grove's signature red fruit, the nose showing vanilla, cinnamon and barrel notes while the palate brings cherry, tropical fruit and spice. The finish stays woody, nutty and lightly caramelised. The added wood lends extra grip without making the strength feel heavy, keeping it flavourful but easy to drink, a friendly introduction to unusual cask finishes for those who already enjoy the house fruitiness.