Saison Rum is a blend of rums from Barbados (West Indies Rum Distillery and Foursquare Distillery - aged 3 to 5 years), Jamaica (Long Pond and Hampden Distilleries - aged 0 to 2 years) and Trinidad & Tobago (Trinidad Distillers Limited - aged 3 years).
Once in France in the Tessendier cellars, the rums are assembled in Limousin oak barrels, slowly reduced to 42° and bottled.
Nico's tasting notes
This rum's resolutely buttery nose doesn't detract from its expressiveness, giving an impression of balance right from the start. Simple but well orchestrated, it releases its spices (cinnamon and especially pepper) and roasted nuts. The coconut is soft and slightly toasted, and this sweetness fairly balances out a smoky, metallic edge that flirts with quince paste. This aspect underlines the rum's lively, taut character, which is not overpowering in its sweetness, just as the caramel is present but not sweet. The candied orange zest has swollen in these vapors and adds thickness.
Aeration increases the intensity. Heavier, more concentrated aromas emerge with a subtle sheen. The buttery notes fade, and the smoky, metallic character reminiscent of Trinidad asserts itself once again. Jamaica is also present, with its famous "funk" of extremely ripe tropical fruits, especially banana. More eccentricity, then, but also a touch more harshness, with a deep, dark wood, albeit beautifully polished. Occasionally, a hint of cherry or pear brandy bursts forth, bringing freshness and vibrancy.
The palate is very smooth, with a very light consistency. Notes of tobacco and light leather soon give way to a good woody phase, followed by the smoky, metallic side, itself gradually approaching dark cocoa. An oxidized compote of rustic apples adds sweetness and thickness, and the balance is quickly established by the toasted wood.
The finish recalls a light metallic touch, molasses, caramel and vanilla.
"This rum is a beautiful synthesis and a gentle introduction to English-style rums. It will appeal to those curious to venture into slightly turbulent waters..."
