Rivière du Mât Royal Réserve

Riviere du Mat distils on Reunion from fresh pressed sugar cane, and this Royal Reserve is a blended agricole style rhum bottled at 42%, pitched as an affordable, undemanding option rather than a serious sipper. Sitting outside the French AOC, it is honestly described as agricole style.

The nose is mildly fruity, with apple, cinnamon and soft vanilla over grassy sugar cane, while the palate turns drier and a touch woody, with vegetal cane notes and a light spice. The finish stays dry, spiced and fruity without much weight. This is cheap and cheerful done competently, a simple everyday sipper or easy mixer of moderate intensity. It will not satisfy anyone chasing depth or funk, but it does an honest job for the money.