Velier Arawaks & Casimir Clairin Vieux Vaval & Casimir (Whisky Live Paris 2021) 2017

This Velier release blends two of Haiti's named clairins, Vaval and Casimir, both village cane juice rums made from fresh juice and fermented wild with native yeasts, agricole in spirit even where the word cannot be used. Aged four years in Sherry casks and bottled at 50.1%, it takes those raw, characterful white spirits and rounds them with wine cask influence, a release drinkers have praised for its balance and value.

The Sherry wood softens the turbo charged clairin funk without erasing it, layering tropical fruit, marzipan and licorice over the vegetal cane base, with light oak and dried fruit notes from the cask. The palate keeps the vegetal and licorice character alive alongside Sherry fruit and vanilla, and the finish carries grapes, fruitcake and wood. It is well balanced, the wild side present but tamed. For drinkers who enjoy clairin character but want it rounded by Sherry fruit and moderate oak, this hits a rewarding middle ground.