Velier Neisson Velier 70th Anniversary 2005

Neisson is a small, family-run Martinique distillery long prized by enthusiasts, and this 2005 vintage was selected by Velier for its 70th anniversary. A cane-juice rhum agricole aged twelve years and bottled undiluted at 51.3% with nothing added, it brings Velier's full-proof, unsweetened philosophy to one of the island's most respected houses.

Distilled from fresh sugarcane juice on a column at low strength, the spirit keeps its agricole freshness, and long tropical ageing in ex-bourbon oak has built real depth around it. The nose shows wood, vanilla, spice and dried fruit, the palate is dry yet creamy and layered, carrying nuts, vanilla and noble oak with the agricole lift, and the finish runs woody, with dried fruit, tobacco and a roasted note. The balance between power, wood and cane freshness is the draw here. This is a serious, contemplative aged agricole, best given time and full attention, for drinkers who love well-aged Neisson or fine bourbon.