Saint James Royal Ambré

I've often stated a particular agricole is my least favorite encountered so far, and this is another instance. However, exploring the lower end of agricole quality doesn't typically yield poor products. The quality seems to diminish gradually towards a 'just fine' level, which is where this falls. The aroma is quite faint, featuring a bit of grassy funk and molasses, perhaps a hint of chocolate, and a distinct grape-like note reminiscent of brandy. The flavor profile includes more chocolate, more funk, more molasses, a lingering grape essence, and a slight sugary tingle. It's not significantly more intense than the aroma. The finish is subtly bitter and spicy, like cinnamon chocolate, and persists for a good duration. At 40% ABV, lower than most other agricoles I've sampled, this comes across as rather weak. Most other aged or unaged agricoles I've had delivered a strong impact on the palate, but this one seems fairly bland. It's by no means bad, just mild and unremarkable. It does make a decent ti punch vieux, however. My primary comparison is with La Favorite Ambre. I began a side-by-side tasting but quickly abandoned it as this cannot compare to La Favorite. This perhaps illustrates my increasing standards. I am still new to agricole and spirits in general, and as I mentioned, this is perfectly acceptable, but it doesn't measure up to other available options. To be fair, personal preference might play a role. It's certainly less intense than La Favorite or most others I've tried, and some individuals might prefer that. One positive aspect is its price point of $25, among the lowest I've seen for agricole. (This was a reason I tried it, along with a desire to sample a new agricole.) I likely won't repurchase this, but I remain interested in exploring other offerings from Saint James.

Rich scents of cinnamon, raisin, vanilla, brown sugar, and freshly cut grass. Light mouthfeel. The palate reveals more raisin, brown sugar, and grass notes, along with bramble and black pepper. The finish is of medium-long duration. 3.25/5.00 – Quite Good (neat)

Not to my preference... Nose: grape chocolate Taste: grape chocolate, grass