Rum Nation British Limited Edition

Rum Nation, the well-regarded Italian house known for its regional and blended releases, bottled this 10 year old British Guyana rum at cask strength. No single distillery is named, so it reads as a Demerara blend rather than a single-still expression, built for body and bite rather than delicacy.

The molasses distillate is finished in sherry casks, which show clearly in the glass, adding a layer to the oak, pepper and coffee core without making the rum sweet. Expect leather, cocoa and dried-fruit notes over a dry, tannic frame at 56.4%, with a roasted, lightly chilli-warm finish. It is a punchy, value-minded Demerara for drinkers who like coffee and oak and do not mind some tannic grip, and it holds up well in a stirred cocktail.