Longueteau Papillon Wildlife

Longueteau, the oldest family-owned agricole distillery still running in Guadeloupe, makes this Papillon Wildlife blanc from fresh-pressed sugar cane juice, bottled at 45% under the island's IGP. It sits at the entry point of the range but carries the house's clean cane character.

Distilled on column and presented unaged, it noses on lime, sugarcane, florals and freshness, with a round, peppery and vegetal palate lifted by more lime, and a light, fruity, floral finish with an anise edge. It is gentle and easy rather than intense, which suits its place as an everyday white, and the floral, citrus-driven freshness gives it more charm than its modest billing might suggest. The conservation-themed bottle is part of the appeal too. A pleasant, honest agricole blanc for drinkers new to the style or after a simple, fresh cane juice rum to pour neat or shake into a light, citrus-forward cocktail.