Rhum J.M XO

An intense Rhum Agricole originating from Martinique, crafted in the highlands near Montagne Pelee, where JM's Rum distillery has stood since 1790. Jean-Marie Martin, the founder, lends his initials to the name. This rhum is processed in column stills and aged in oak for over a decade. It begins aromatically with hints of toasted nut, lemon, sage, mango, passion fruit, and a whisper of Bourbon. Its time in copper adds touches of citrus, caramel, cinnamon, and nuts, leading to a long, warm conclusion with notes of white pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg. June 2017 / April 2018

Fantastic. It develops significantly in the glass, particularly after some air. A complex profile. Not simply an upgrade from the VSOP, which it clearly derives from, this is a significant step up. I don't regret the purchase price (about 60-70% more than the VSOP), and it's obvious why. It's reminiscent of a traditional British figgy pudding, yet also carries numerous tropical and dried fruit notes absent in other expressions from the distillery. Highly recommended!

Superbly complex. The body is dense with a lot of mouthfeel. Still has that signature JM character on the palate, with sugarcane and peppery vegetal notes. Great freshness and hints of sweet spices (clove, cinnamon) and wood.

The official assessment is accurate. This is a new category of spirits for me, and I'm uncertain if I'm completely captivated. It's very complex; perhaps I just need more time with it.

A bright, floral start followed by a lovely lingering banana note. An excellent spirit made from sugarcane juice!

RHUM JM Cognac Cask Finish Nose: Rum-like, sugarcane Taste: Clear, alcoholic, not tingly Finish: Strong alcohol, definitive rum character, no lingering finish