Saint Aubin XO is one of Mauritius's finest expressions of pure cane juice. The Saint Aubin distillery produces "Single Estate" rums from its own cane, using both column and alembic stills. The rum in question was distilled in pot-stills and aged in two types of casks. New French oak casks, as well as ex-cognac casks, are used in the blending of this XO, which is at least 6 years old.
Nico's tasting notes
On the nose, a fine balance is struck between a full-bodied rum and another with irresistible velvety fruitiness. The copper of the still rubs shoulders with lightly smoked spices and toasted wood, in a velvet glove or a swig of honey. Tropical and orchard fruits are perfectly ripe and elegant.
Aeration confirms the rum's overall elegance and complexity. The coppery notes now draw on stone, then dip into pine resin, before ending up in a languorous amaretto.
On the palate, moderation and balance are still the order of the day, as woody, mellow notes first settle on the palate. A hint of coppery full-bodiedness begins a spicier build-up, followed by the candied, patinated cane juice, which offers a lovely chewiness that's as vegetal as it is pastry-like.
The finish is soft and gourmand, like a turron with brief accents of pistachio.
"A rum that offers a great deal of nuance and elegance, as well as gourmandise, without falling for the easy way out for a moment..."
Hansy Haberkorn
I really enjoyed this rum, which is just right for my tastes.
Nose: wood, vanilla, lime, butter.
Mouth: wood, vanilla.
Finish: wood, vanilla, good length.