We’re diving again in with three extra new releases from La Maison & Velier, with three new rarities from the importer’s prized, restricted version shares. Some single cask goodies right here… together with some extra available fare. Dig in.
Habitation Velier Lengthy Pond STCE 2007 Single Cask #10 – 15 years previous, all ex-bourbon casks; evaluate to Cask #5 from final yr’s evaluation. The least boozy rum on this record, at simply 58% abv. Extremely floral on the nostril, its perfumed potpourri backed by parts of cherry blossoms, recent molasses, lime leaf, and blended tropical fruits. On the palate, extra of the identical, however backed by a barely bitter, petrol-laden edge. Tarry, then nutty — then these heavy Madeira notes that cask #5 poured on so closely. The end is daunting with oxidized wine character, turning barely pruny on the denouement. Finally fairly much like its predecessor. 116 proof. B+ / $200
Habitation Velier Hampden Property HGML 2018 Single Cask #137 – 4 years previous. A follow-up to cask #132 which we reviewed final yr, HGML is Hampden’s ultra-high ester expression, which is one thing of a mix of overripe fruit and fresh-brewed gasoline. Whereas cask #132 erred initially on the fruit aspect then strikes into the refinery, #137 places the pedal down first on the petrol, making for a pointy and industrial assault, earlier than stepping again to let the fruitier notes come to the fore. This order of operations works lots higher, punching by way of the chemical insanity to discover a means for large banana, peach, and apricot notes — the lattermost notably hefty on the end. Water’s a great transfer right here, bringing out a light-weight honey-meets-bubblegum word that in some way doesn’t really feel cloying. A significantly better barrel than the brash #132, regardless of #137 being notably greater in alcohol. 126 proof. B+ / $150
Hampden Property HLCF Traditional – It is a new, non-single cask launch of Hampden’s HLCF mark — Hampden Mild Continental Flavored — which is within the mid-level of ester focus. Nonvintage, a 4 yr previous age assertion within the wonderful print; not branded as a Habitation Velier launch. Properly rounded, clearly due to some astute mixing, with a frivolously charred, barely smoky nostril that shortly folds in overripe pineapple, lime leaf, and a little bit of black olive. Extra restrained on the palate, with overtones of vanilla and creme brulee, more and more bitter because the end builds — orange and lime zest clinging to the again of the throat. Water tames the beast amply. Surprisingly well-rounded, it’s a punchy however nice little expression. 120 proof. A- / $100
Hampden Property HLCF Traditional
$100
