Isautier Antoinette #2 2010

Isautier is a long-established Reunion distillery, and this Antoinette batch is a 2010 vintage aged thirteen years and bottled at cask strength, 58%. The data lists molasses as the base, so despite the agricole heading this is a molasses rum, not cane juice, and best described that way.

Matured in ex-bourbon oak, it shows an unusual, fruit-forward character that leans closer to neighbouring Savanna than to a typical Isautier. Red berries and strawberry meet a striking menthol and mint note, with burnt sugar, candied orange and young wood underneath. The alcohol is well integrated for the strength and the finish stays minty, woody and fresh. It is a distinctive sipper for experienced drinkers who enjoy characterful, high-proof Reunion rum and want something with an unexpected herbal, berried twist rather than a conventional aged-rum profile.