Savanna Lontan Grand Arôme

Savanna on Reunion, distilling since 1870, makes three different families of rum, and this is the Grand Arome, its high-ester, long-fermentation style. Despite the agricole heading, this is a molasses-based rum (with a cane juice component), not pure cane juice, and that long ferment is what drives the funk, so it is best described as a high-ester molasses white.

Unaged and bottled at just 40%, it nonetheless delivers intense ester character: green olive runs from nose to finish, with fermented and overripe tropical fruit, herbs and a briny, savoury edge. The modest strength makes the funk surprisingly approachable rather than overwhelming. It is a fireworks display for the proof, unmistakably Savanna, and shines as much in a Ti' Punch or a creative cocktail as it does neat. One for drinkers curious about high-ester whites who want the funk without a punishing ABV.