PLANTATION RUM Jamaïque Hampden HJF Conquête

Nose : powerful, concentrated. The very empyreumatic first nose (oil, hot tar) is also fruity (apricot, quince, candied orange) and musky. Allowed to breathe, strong spices (clove, nutmeg, star anise) create an invigorating transition to a more honeyed (lime blossom, heather) and syrupy (Rivesaltes wine, warm cane sugar) register. The aroma palette then becomes increasingly floral (rose, peony, hyacinth).

Appearance : orangey copper.

Palate : lively yet balanced. The empyreumatic attack (rubber, tar, burnt agave) also reveals flavours of orange blossom, precious wood and ripe fruits (pineapple, grilled walnut, banana). At the same time, tiger balm and camphor coat the taste buds. Gradually, lime and kaffir lime take hold of the palate. Tobacco leaf and bay leaf finally fall nonchalantly onto the tongue.

Overall : long, invigorating. At the start of the finish, lemon, pineapple and banana continue to have a huge influence on the tasting. Around these fruits come sugar cane, cane sugar and toffee. The end of the finish is characterized by notes of precious wood, papier d’Arménie and bay leaf. The retro-nasal olfaction then gives its own take on this Hampden’s fruity character, adding acacia honey. The empty glass brings aromas of black coffee, dark chocolate and incense.