Planteray (Umeshu Cask Finish) 2004

Planteray Fiji 2004 is a twenty year old single cask Fijian rum bottled by Maison Ferrand, distilled in 2004, aged in ex-bourbon and given an umeshu cask finish, presented unsweetened at 48.4%. While Ferrand's mainstream Plantation and Planteray bottlings openly use dosage, this single cask is left dry, letting two decades of age and an unusual Japanese plum wine finish lead.

The nose is mature and layered, tropical fruit and fresh notes over a woody base, while the palate turns spicy and structured, peppery oak with chocolate and allspice. The umeshu finish lends a distinctive cherry and fruity lift to the woody, barrel driven close. Long maturation gives it depth and a savoury grip, and the plum wine cask adds an offbeat fruity twist that sets it apart from the usual aged Fiji. It is an intriguing, well aged single cask for drinkers who enjoy spice, oak and a touch of the unexpected.