2005 Saint Lucia Distillers, Chairman's Reserve, Master's Selection, BBR Exclusive Vendome Cask #172001994, Rum, Saint Lucia (61%)

Distilled on the unusual hybrid Vendôme 1300 litre pot still, this Saint Lucian marvel is both assertive and opulent. Mounds of spice and sweet oak hurtle out of the glass, smothered with sticky molasses and toffee. The palate is awash with treacle, eucalyptus and citrus peels. The finish gives me picnic parcels of fruitcake and tea loaf, in an old leather pouch, secured with a pair of brand-new rubber-bands. Spend an hour with a glass of this to explore the depth and richness the rums of this beautiful Island have to offer.
Rob Whitehead, Spirits Buyer (March 2021)