The HSE VSOP Port Cask Finish is an exceptional agricultural rum produced at Habitation Saint-Étienne, in Martinique, adhering to the traditions of the AOC Martinique.
This very old rum stands out due to meticulous aging and a unique finish, making it a true gem for lovers of characterful spirits.
After an initial maturation of over 3 years in American oak barrels that previously held bourbon, it receives an 8-month finish in 225-liter Tawny port barrels.
This double maturation enriches the rum with complex fruity and woody notes, perfectly balanced by the typical softness and roundness of Port.
TASTING NOTES:
NOSE: Upon opening, the nose reveals a rich and fruity symphony, dominated by notes of candied fruit. This aroma is enhanced by soft spices such as cinnamon and vanilla, and hints at ripe sugarcane, noble and refined by years of aging. The woodiness is delicate, blended with subtle touches of menthol, bringing a refreshing sensation. With aeration, a drier facet emerges, marked by aromas of fruit pits and wood, with the characteristic oxidation of Port casks introducing prunes and nuts.
PALATE: On the palate, the balance between vegetal and wood is masterful. The oak barrel tannins are present, but perfectly melded into a harmonious ensemble where candied cane expresses itself with intensity. Dried fruits—prunes, dried apricots—and indulgent notes of freshly roasted cocoa and mocha form a silky, rich texture, while blackberry jam adds a sweet and enveloping dimension. The acidity present enhances the whole, avoiding any heaviness, offering a dynamic and complex tasting experience.
FINISH: The finish is long, marked by more pronounced tannins that slightly dry the palate while leaving a sweet and smooth sensation. Sparkling spices—white pepper, cloves—intertwine with notes of fruit pits and prune flesh, leaving a lasting and elegant impression.
Data sheet
Specific References
Step into the vibrant world of Don Papa Masskara, a homage to Negros Occidental’s iconic Masskara Festival. This annual celebration, dedicated to finding joy in the face of adversity, embodies the authentic soul of the Philippines. This premium edition is blended with a pot still infusion of tropical ingredients locally-sourced in the Philippines. Distilled at 40% ABV, Don Papa Masskara is a distinctly rich, sweet and citrus spiced creation, evoking the joyous nature of its namesake fiesta.
When a lime dries under the sun, it turns black and develops wonderful slightly smoky, woody, deep aromas, while retaining its zesty freshness. Black lemon is widely used in Mediterranean and Persian cuisine. Yu Gin Black Lemon offers a remarkable aromatic profile: yuzu, black lemon, juniper, combined with a delicate bouquet of ginger, coriander, caraway, and cardamom, creating a truly unique gin with rich, deep, and original aromas.
The Kurayoshi Pure Malt is aged for over 3 years in oak casks. It has a soft and refreshing fragrance of malted barley complimented by sweet and tart notes of rum raisins, malt and vanilla. The light finish is a reminder of Tottori’s pure spring water used during distillation.
The Mintis Wild Raspberry Gin comes from Torino Distillati in Moncalieri. The family distillery is run by Carlo Vergnano, his wife Piera, their daughter Rita, and other employees. Mintis Wild Raspberry Gin is distilled for eight hours at 60 °C in a custom-made vacuum still. Refined with wild raspberries, this gin offers an enchanting aroma of juniper berries, raspberry, and mint. On the palate, it reveals typical juniper notes, accompanied by juicy and fresh raspberry, grapefruit peel, and spices. Mintis Wild Raspberry Gin is bottled at 41.8% ABV.
The Sortilège Blueberries is a Canadian whisky liqueur with maple syrup, enhanced by the delicious flavors of the famous wild blueberries from the Lac Saint-Jean region. The result is a remarkably refined liqueur that is both fruity and slightly sweet. It is best enjoyed chilled, on ice, and its richness also lends itself to coffee and cocktails. You can also serve it on its own as the perfect conclusion to an excellent meal. Sortilège is crafted from an original recipe by the descendants of Quebec's first settlers, who brought the whisky-making techniques of the New World and added a local native ingredient, maple syrup, to create a truly unique spirit.
Cihuatan Xaman, originating from El Paisnal, San Salvador, El Salvador, is a 16-year-old rum with 40% Alc./Vol., aged for 15 years in American oak ex-Bourbon barrels, then finished for 1 year in Mayan ceiba casks. At the heart of every bottle of Cihuatán Xaman lies the Sleeping Woman, a Mayan goddess and guardian of the Cihuatán valley. Legend has it that, under the veil of the night, the Sleeping Woman would search for the brightest star in the sky. It was Xaman, the god of the North Star.