Longueteau Genesis vieux 2016

Longueteau, founded in 1895, is the oldest family-owned agricole distillery still running in Guadeloupe, and this Genesis vieux draws on a 2016 vintage pressed from fresh sugar-cane juice rather than molasses. At four years old it is young in oak, but the headline is the strength: bottled brut de colonne and brut de fut at a massive 71.7%.

Distilled on a creole column and matured in ex-bourbon oak, it carries serious power that needs time and air to open. Once it does, it turns surprisingly gourmand, with almond paste, chocolate, vanilla and citrus on the nose, then coconut, passion fruit and a citrus lift across the palate before a spicy, smoky, sugar-cane finish. This is one for experienced palates and slow sipping, a high-octane agricole that rewards plenty of rest in the glass.