Mohan Meakin Distillery Old Monk Surpreme XXX Rum

Old Monk Supreme XXX comes from Mohan Meakin, the historic Indian distillery behind one of the country's most famous rum brands. Bottled without an age statement at 42.8%, this is a higher proof expression of the legendary monk shaped bottle, a name that carries enormous nostalgia for many drinkers.

The nose is sweetish and alcoholic with vanilla and a citrus note, but the palate turns medicinal, woody and fruity with a notable harshness, finishing dry and a touch dirty. Several drinkers admit it is barely drinkable neat and a little unbalanced, freely noting they were drawn in by the famous bottle as much as the liquid. Indian molasses rum of this kind is built for mixing and for its cultural following rather than for refined sipping. Approached with realistic expectations, ideally lengthened in a long drink, it is part of rum history worth tasting, even if the glass itself is rough going.