Rum Runner Worthy Park 2006

Worthy Park is the precise single estate of St. Catherine, and this Rum Runner single cask shows its gentler, fruitier face at 15 years. Bottled unsweetened at 54.5%, it sits at the softer end of the Jamaican spectrum, far from the stereotype of aggressive island funk.

Distilled from molasses on the pot still and matured in ex-bourbon oak in Europe, the long continental ageing favours a smooth, honeyed style. The aroma is pineapple, mango, banana and papaya, the palate turns to honey, banana, papaya and mango, and the finish keeps the honey alongside candied, woody and caramel notes. The esters are kept low and the alcohol is smooth, so the ripe tropical fruit and honeyed sweetness lead, framed by young oak and mild spice. Some find it a touch light on the usual Worthy Park markers, but the gorgeous nose and easy drinkability make it a likeable pour for those who want Jamaica without the funk.