Rhum J.M Single Barrel (Kirsch Whisky) 2015

Rhum J.M distils in the far north of Martinique under Mount Pelee, on terroir prized among AOC producers, and this single barrel from the 2015 vintage carries eight years of age before a finish in a kirsch whisky cask. Pressed from fresh sugar cane juice and bottled at cask strength of 54.2%, it pairs the house signature with an unusual cherry brandy influence that suits it well.

The kirsch and J.M character lock together: intense wood spice and burnt sugar lead, with cherry, red fruit and vanilla woven through the nose and palate. This is a dry, spicy and powerful style, the oak prominent but well integrated, and the alcohol carried cleanly for the strength. The finish is long and resolutely woody and spiced. A natural next step up in power for anyone who knows classic J.M and wants a single barrel with more oak grip and a distinctive fruit twist.