A.H. Riise Royal Danish Navy Naval Cadet is a spirit drink based on old molasses rum. As is often the case, the brand pays tribute here to the Danish armed forces, and in particular to the navy.
Denmark happens to be home to the world's oldest naval academy. In the 18th century, the school's first apprentices were already enjoying rum. This is still the case today, which is why this cuvée was developed in collaboration with the current students.
Nico's tasting notes
The nose is immediately reminiscent of buttery cake batter, sprinkled with a few mild spices, and why not a handful of nuts? We've also added a few candied orange peels and a sprinkling of rum-soaked dried fruit.
With aeration, our cake takes on a clearer, more speculoos or gingerbread-like character. The buttery, shortbread aspect is quite striking, with the spices surfing on an almost cereal-like mellowness.
The palate is as round as expected, and is quickly lined with a syrupy liquor. The spirit's power is thus largely covered, making it particularly approachable. The spices quietly detail themselves on the taste buds, with a generous pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, then fruits like cherries and candied oranges take over.
The finale is our shortbread dough, amply buttered and gently spiced.
"A real drinking cake batter, very round and fragrant..."