Ron Aldea Maestro 2009

Ron Aldea's Maestro 2009 is a single vintage release from the long running La Palma distillery, a molasses rum distilled on a column still, aged ten years in ex-bourbon oak and bottled without added sugar at 40%. As with the wider Aldea range, it offers an Atlantic island take on rum that sits closer in feel to a mild agricole than to a sweet Spanish ron.

The nose is fruity and fresh, opening on blackberry, berries and red fruit, while the palate turns to sugarcane, tobacco and caramel with a woody backbone. Tasters describe varnished, resinous wood with cedar and cigar box notes, a supple and tender spirit, and the finish carries candied fruit, vanilla, sugarcane and oak. At 40% and additive free it drinks mild and characterful, a relaxed, gently woody sipper that rewards a little patience in the glass.