Ian Macleod Sancti Spiritus Two Bobs 1998

Scotch house Ian Macleod selected this single cask Cuban, a 1998 vintage aged sixteen years in ex-bourbon and bottled at full cask strength, 59.9%. Whisky-bottler single casks like this present Cuban rum stripped of any softening, the high proof and natural presentation pushing the spirit to its limits.

The nose is powerful and alcoholic, tropical fruit and fresh sugarcane over a spicy edge. The palate is intense and woody, tropical fruit and sugarcane wrapped in spice, the strength demanding a drop of water. The finish turns dry and peppery, red pepper and tropical fruit over a bitter close. This is a muscular, full-proof Cuban a long way from the light, soft ron ligero archetype, dry and assertive rather than smooth. One for experienced drinkers who want their Cuban rum at full strength and unsweetened, with plenty of grip and a fruity, spirit-driven core to reward the effort.