Mohan Meakin Distillery Old Monk The Legend

Old Monk is one of India's most storied rum brands, made by Mohan Meakin, and The Legend is its twelve year old flagship, a column still molasses rum bottled at 42.8 percent. It carries a long nostalgic following, often bought as much for the bottle and the name as for the liquid inside.

Column distillation and ageing in ex bourbon give a soft, sweet profile that leans heavily toward dessert. The nose offers caramel, vanilla, wax and baking spice with an orange lift reminiscent of Christmas cake, while the palate turns very sweet and almost cloying, a big hit of vanilla followed by candied orange and a salty, spicy finish. Something herbal and musty runs underneath. It is a sweet, easygoing sipper rather than a structured one, best enjoyed for its comfort and history.