Produced by Rhum J.M, one of the smallest distilleries on the island of Martinique, this rare aged rhum agricole was rested for ten years in oak barrels before being bottled at 96 proof at the distillery in 2007.
Rhum J.M Vieux 1997 agricole from Martinique.
Photo by Robert Burr.
This medium-bodied vintage rum exhibits a light amber color. The nose suggests a long aging in oak, herbal notes, a bit of pepper and dried fruits. Big flavors of sherry, citrus, grassy cane and vanilla lead to a bold warm blossom of spicy and peppery notes. The finish is very long, warm and generous like a fine cognac.
This fine rhum, like all other agricoles that carry the AOC mark of Martinique, is distilled at lower proofs from pure sugar cane juice during the harvest season. The cane juice is fermented for two days, then distilled in a single column copper still to a final strength of approximately 160 proof.
Rhum J.M Vieux 1997 earned a Gold Award at the RumXP International Tasting Competition at the Miami Rum Renaissance Festival.
The Appelation d'Origine Controlée of Martinique signifies that rhums that carry this seal adhere to strict standards of production, fermenting, distilling and aging their spirits.
Rhum J.M is named for the founder of the distillery, Jean-Marie Martin. This small distillery, which dates back to 1790, is located in the north east of the island at the foot of Mount Pelée in Macouba. This is one of the last traditional distilleries in Martinique.
In 1914 the distillery was taken over by Gustave Crassous de Medeuil owner of the adjacent Bellevue residence and cane fields. His heirs still operate the distillery to this day. In 2004, J.M was purchased by the Bernard Hayot group which also purchased Rhum Clement in 1986.
Rhum J.M produces J.M Rhum Blanc, J.M Rhum Gold (Sous Bois) and J.M Rhum Vieux VSOP Reserve Speciale.
review: Beverage Testing Institute
review: Scottes' Rum Pages
review: Rene van Hoven Rum Pages
online sales: HiTime Wine and Spirits
Robert Burr
National Rum Examiner
Gifted Rums Guide
Miami Rum Renaissance Festival
follow us on Facebook and Twitter
to be notified when the Rum Examiner posts new articles, click on the subscribe link above and enter your email address.
Comments