The Rum Factory Double Cask Cognac

The Rum Factory's Double Cask Cognac is a Panamanian molasses rum, column-distilled in the soft Spanish style and aged close to thirteen years before a finishing period in cognac casks. Bottled unsweetened at 45%, it lets the cask do the talking, the wine-spirit influence is the headline rather than any added sugar.

The nose is decidedly cognac-forward, with oak, young wood and a spicy edge. On the palate the cognac character carries through cleanly, joined by barrel notes, oak and a backbone of vanilla, the alcohol well integrated and the spice pleasant rather than aggressive. The finish turns fruity, with a touch of candied fruit lifting the close. The mild base spirit means the cask leads throughout, which will appeal to drinkers who enjoy a wine-finished, dry style of Panamanian rum and are happy for the brandy notes to set the tone.