Experience the extraordinary flavors of Holmes Cay Single Origin Reunion Island Agricole Rum, a traditional unaged rhum agricole crafted by the esteemed Distillerie de Savanna in Réunion Island, France. Distilled using a Savalle copper column still from fresh cane juice and bottled in New York State at 50% ABV, this exceptional rum delivers an enticing profile of green pepper and olive on the nose, followed by new grass and brine on the tongue, culminating in a delightful fresh sugarcane sweetness on the finish. True to Holmes Cay's commitment to purity and authenticity, this Single Origin Edition contains no added sugar, color, or flavors, allowing the distinctive character of Réunion Island's terroir to shine through in every sip, making it perfect for both sophisticated sipping and creating unforgettable craft cocktails.
Process & Profile
The Holmes Cay Reunion Island Agricole Rum is meticulously crafted at the renowned Distillerie de Savanna, located in Saint-André on Reunion Island. This traditional rum begins with fresh sugarcane juice rather than molasses, following the authentic agricole method cherished throughout the French rum territories. The production process involves distillation on a Savalle copper column still, which preserves the delicate flavors of the fresh sugarcane juice. After distillation, the rum is bottled in New York State at a robust 50% ABV (100 proof), offering a perfect balance of strength and flavor. What sets this rum apart is its purity—no sugar, coloring, or additional flavors are added during production. This commitment to authenticity results in a transparent expression of Reunion Island's unique rum-making tradition.
Tasting Notes
Nose: The aromatic profile opens with distinctive notes of green pepper and olive, complemented by fresh grassy undertones that speak to its agricole heritage.
Palate: On the tongue, expect a captivating combination of new grass and brine that creates a savory yet refreshing experience. The column distillation method helps preserve these unique flavor characteristics that define this exceptional rum.
Finish: The journey concludes with a pleasant fresh sugarcane sweetness that lingers, providing a perfect counterbalance to the savory elements and creating a harmonious tasting experience.
What Makes It Special
Holmes Cay's Single Origin Reunion Island Agricole Rum represents a rare opportunity to experience the distinctive rum-making tradition of Reunion Island, a style not widely available in the American market. As part of Holmes Cay's Single Origin Editions, this rum spotlights the amazing diversity of rum flavors through thoughtfully selected expressions. The unique terroir of Reunion Island combined with traditional agricole production methods creates a rum profile quite unlike the molasses-based rums most drinkers are accustomed to. Its grassy, floral profile with hints of olive brine and a mineral-rich finish offers rum enthusiasts an authentic taste of this French island territory. At 50% ABV and bottled without additives, this rum exemplifies Holmes Cay's commitment to showcasing transparent, additive-free rums that express their true character and origin.
How to Enjoy
This versatile rum can be appreciated in multiple ways:
Neat: Serve at room temperature in a tulip-shaped glass to fully appreciate its complex aromatic profile and distinctive flavor journey from savory to sweet.
On the Rocks: A single large ice cube will gently dilute the 50% ABV while maintaining the integrity of the flavor profile.
In Cocktails: The distinctive grassy, briny profile makes this rum an exceptional base for elevated cocktails. Its unique character can transform classics like a Ti' Punch or create unforgettable custom creations that showcase its agricultural rum heritage. Whether you're a seasoned rum aficionado or exploring the world of agricultural rums for the first time, Holmes Cay Single Origin Reunion Island Agricole Rum offers an authentic expression of one of the world's most distinctive rum styles.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Holmes Cay Reunion Island Agricole Rum?
Holmes Cay Single Origin Reunion Island Agricole Rum is an unaged rhum agricole, distilled from fresh sugarcane juice at Distillerie de Savanna on Réunion Island, France. It is bottled in New York State at 50% ABV, showcasing the fresh, vibrant character of agricole rum.
How does this rum differ from traditional molasses-based rums?
This rum is made from freshly pressed sugarcane juice rather than molasses, which results in a distinctively grassy, floral, and vegetal flavor profile. The taste is quite unlike the sweeter, caramel-forward notes found in most molasses-based rums.
What are the main tasting notes?
Expect aromas of green pepper and olive, a palate of new grass and brine, and a finish that delivers fresh sugarcane sweetness. Many enthusiasts also note a subtle mineral richness and a touch of olive brine that adds to its complexity.
Where is this rum produced?
The rum is produced at the Distillerie de Savanna in Saint-André, Réunion Island, a French territory in the Indian Ocean known for its unique rum traditions.
What is the ABV (alcohol by volume)?
Holmes Cay Reunion Island Agricole Rum is bottled at 50% ABV, making it bold, flavorful, and ideal for both sipping and mixing in cocktails.
Does this rum contain any added sugar or flavoring?
No, this rum is bottled without any added sugar, color, or flavorings, ensuring a pure and authentic expression of its source ingredients and distillation process.
How can I best enjoy this rum?
This rum can be enjoyed neat to savor its complex and grassy profile, or used in cocktails where its vegetal, briny notes can shine, such as a Ti’ Punch or a Daiquiri.
Is this rum a limited edition?
Yes, Holmes Cay Single Origin Editions are typically produced in limited quantities, offering unique and rare expressions from celebrated rum regions and distilleries.
What makes Réunion Island agricole rum special?
Réunion Island rum, particularly from the Savanna distillery, is prized for its honesty and authenticity, embodying the terroir and traditions of the island. Its agricole style, crafted from fresh cane juice, sets it apart from more widely available rums and makes it sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.
