Manutea - Old Rum VO - 43%
Based on the island of Moorea in French Polynesia, Manutea showcases O'Tahiti sugar cane, a heritage variety with expressive aromas. The fresh juices are fermented at controlled temperatures and then precisely distilled in traditional column distillation systems to preserve the floral and exotic character specific to the maritime terroir.
This VO cuvée blends rums aged in tropical climates for at least three years in French and American oak barrels. The warm aging accelerates the wood-spirit exchange, melts esters, and polishes the texture. After barrel-by-barrel selection, the blend is slowly reduced to 43 percent to maintain aromatic density and drinkability. The profile is dry, without artifice.
The nose opens with clear vanilla, fresh coconut, and plantain, joined by ripe mango, orange peel, and a touch of sandalwood. The palate is full and silky, carried by a heart of candied cane, light honey, and sweet spices, with a toasted oak that remains supportive. The finish is long and clean, evoking nougatine, white pepper, and a hint of saltiness reminiscent of the oceanic influence.
Serve neat in a tulip glass between 16 and 18°C, or over a large ice cube to tighten the texture. A wonderful base for an Old Fashioned with cane syrup and cocoa bitters, a sober El Presidente, or a lime and tonic highball. At the table, it pairs well with sesame-soy semi-cooked tuna, honey-glazed roast chicken, 24-month Comté cheese, or a roasted pineapple dessert.
