The Ester Hunter Catch 2 The Whisky Jury

This is a 2019 HD cask (HGML) and a (nearly 3-year-old) cask of S Reunion G.A. that was fully matured in an ex 1988 Enmore cask. Since our view is that rums with a high ester should also be drinkable, we bottled this one at 52% vol as we felt that was the perfect drinking strength. We got great feedback from visitors to Salon du Rhum Spa. And all 48 bottles we brought were quickly sold out. So if you want a bottle, don't wait too long.

Tasting note

Nose

The nose opens with an intense ester explosion, typical of H-rum, with prominent notes of overripe banana, pineapple and green apple. Alongside this, fermentation aromas such as acetone and nail polish remover develop, but these are balanced by a subtle hint of citrus (lime and orange zest). In contrast, the Reunion rum brings a more floral note, along with light notes of fresh-cut sugar cane, honey and a hint of white pepper.

Taste

On the palate, the Jamaican power immediately emerges with rich, funky esters: a tropical fruit basket of mango, papaya and pineapple, surrounded by a touch of olives and smoke. The Reunion rum provides a softer, honeyed undertone with notes of caramel, ginger and a hint of spice. The balance between the funky, wild Jamaican elements and the softer Reunion component makes for a complex but harmonious taste experience.

Finish

The finish is long and powerful, with lingering notes of tropical fruit, briny olives, and a hint of oak from the casks. The spicy elements of Reunion create a warm mouthfeel, which slowly fades to notes of vanilla and light caramel. The funky esters linger for a long time, underlining the signature H...... rum.

Hampden Distillery

Hampden Distillery, located in the Trelawny region of Jamaica, is one of the oldest and most authentic rum producers in the world. Founded in 1753, Hampden is known for its traditional methods and production of heavily aromatic, pot still rums, which are loved by rum connoisseurs worldwide. Located in the middle of Jamaica's tropical environment, the distillery benefits from the region's unique terroir and rich history.

A unique feature of Hampden is the use of slow, natural fermentation with wild yeasts, which contributes to the intense esters and complex aromas their rums are famous for. The rums are produced using copper pot stills and are then aged in tropical conditions, which speeds up maturation and ensures deep, concentrated flavours.

Hampden rums are known for their powerful profile with pronounced notes of tropical fruits, spices, bananas and a uniquely funky ‘hogo’ (Jamaican for the distinctive aroma). With no added sugar or other flavourings, Hampden stays true to its roots, producing pure, unripened and mature rums that truly reflect Jamaican rum traditions. This distillery remains a living icon in the world of craft rum.

Savanna Distillery

Savanna is one of the most respected rum producers in Réunion and is known for making both rum agricole (made from sugarcane juice) and traditional rum (made from molasses). They often experiment with different ageing processes and have a wide range of unique and complex rums that are appreciated worldwide.

Savanna also produces estery, funky rums, similar to the style of Jamaican rum, which makes them special among Reunion distilleries.