Mezan Trinidad 2009 is a molasses rum from Trinidad Distillers Limited. It was produced in a multi-column installation at the large distillery in Port of Spain. This follows a fermentation method unique to TDL. The distillery cultivates its own yeast strains, which do their work over a 48-hour period. Once the sugars contained in the molasses have been absorbed by these yeasts, the must is left to rest for a few more days, to allow other aromas to develop.
After distillation, the rum was placed in first-fill ex-bourbon casks that had been heavily heated. This initial 3-year tropical aging phase was followed by 9 years' aging in Europe, in ex-rum barrels.
This 12-year-old rum (2009-2021) has been bottled without cold filtration, sweetening or coloring. The 46% alcohol content ensures balance and expressiveness.
Nico's tasting notes
On the nose, the slightly tarry signature of Trinidad rums is blended with a ladleful of vanilla, but without being provocative. It's greedy but balanced, with gentle woody aromas.
With aeration, the most prominent notes fade away, revealing a lighter, more acidic, floral profile. The wood takes on blond nuances of caramel, almond and toasted cereals.
The palate is gourmand and gently spicy. The rum melts on the tongue, adding hints of molasses toast, caramel and vanilla, with a roundness that's right on target.
The finish is slightly smoky, a little ethereal, with a hint of copper.
"A very accessible rum, for a gentle discovery of Trinidad's special characteristics..."
