Nobilis Long Pond No. 4 2000

Long Pond is Trelawny's historic Wedderburn house, and this 20 year old single cask from the 2000 vintage, bottled by the Dutch label Nobilis Rum, shows its more polished, elegant side rather than the loud power-funk extreme. The 2000 Long Ponds are well travelled among enthusiasts, and this one earns its place by trading volume for finesse.

Distilled on the double-retort pot still from molasses and matured in ex-bourbon casks at full proof, it is bottled unsweetened at 54.9%. The nose carries glue, banana and fruity esters, the palate runs pineapple, licorice and vanilla over barrel, and the finish brings spice, roasted notes, oak and dried fruit. Twenty years of tropical ageing have polished the funk into something refined and drier, with the fruit kept alive and the heat well integrated. A classy, mellow Long Pond for those who want character without being overwhelmed.