Rumaniacs Review #074 | 0490
Almost the last of the Neissons in the current Rumaniacs lineup – and nothing at all wrong with this one either, because Neisson’s overall quality has been remarkably consistent throughout the various samples, and while there are variations in minor points throughout, the bottom line is that aged or young, strong or easy, they are all – all – of a high standard. My love for French Island rums trends more towards Guadeloupe, but if I ever saw a Neisson from Martinique sitting on the shelf, it would always be one I gave serious consideration to buying, because I know it’ll be a cut above the ordinary, every time, no matter which one it happens to be.
Colour – Dark Gold
Strength – 45.8%
Nose – It’s hot on the initial nose, this one, quite spicy, with bitter chocolate, coffee grounds and salt caramel notes to lead in with. As is normal, resting for a few minutes allows the secondary aromas to come forward – peaches, apricots, ripe red cherries, anise and a background line of citrus and unsweetened yoghurt. Some tequila, salt and dark damp Demerara sugar, just a bit
Palate – Umm, I like this one. More chocolate, a little sweet – it’s warm to taste, but the spice and sharp has been dialled down some. Sweet soya, orange peel, also coke and fanta (a kind of soda pop taste), more coffee grounds, and very little of the more herbal, grassy flavour, though some of that does poke its head up here or there like a shy gopher from its hole. There’s also some camphor like medicine to be noted, leavened with softer hints of coconut cream and maybe bananas.
Finish – Short and easy, caramel and citrus that remind me of those chocolate oranges. It’s a little sharp, adding a few extra fruits and lemon grass to round out the experience.
Thoughts – Some issues with the assembly here. Not entirely enthused about the way all the various flavours careen off each other instead of holding hands and coming together. It may also be the brashness of high-spirited youth where heat and spice and integration are still being worked on. But what the hell. It’s still a pretty decent and complex dram for anyone who enjoys the style.
(84/100)