Medine Estate Penny Blue Single Cask (LMDW) 2011

Penny Blue comes from Medine Estate in Mauritius, and this single cask was selected for La Maison du Whisky from a 2011 vintage. A molasses-based rum matured twelve years and bottled at a full 60%, it shows the more powerful, savoury face of Mauritian rum rather than the soft, sweet style the island is often associated with.

The nose sets the tone with varnish, wood, spice and vanilla, and the palate is firmly dry and savoury, black pepper and licorice alongside an umami, Maggi-like note that gives it real character. The finish is spicy and cooling with caramel and dried fruit, an oloroso influence adding depth without overloading it. Bottled unsweetened at cask strength, it is a serious, well-integrated rum that drinks intensely for its proof and rewards a little water. A characterful single cask for those who like aged rum dry, spice-forward and a touch unusual.