NEISSON - SouBwa - 49%
The Neisson Distillery is one of the most iconic houses in Martinique and in the entire world of agricole rum. Founded in 1931 in Le Carbet, on the north Caribbean coast of the island, it remains one of the few independent family distilleries still in operation. Its identity is based on a very strong connection to the terroir, with canes grown in an environment marked by volcanic soils from Montagne Pelée, tropical heat, sea winds, and the temperature variations typical of the Martinique dry season. Over the decades, Neisson has established itself as an absolute reference for the precision of its distillates, the intensity of its white rums, and the mastery of its aging processes. SouBwa 49% is a highly anticipated 2026 novelty, designed to highlight the distillery's expertise in agricole rums aged in wood. This new vintage continues the Neisson spirit with a generous, structured, and deeply Martinican expression. For enthusiasts, the arrival of a new rum signed Neisson is always an event, as the house holds a special place in the world of great agricole rums.
Neisson SouBwa 49% is an agricole rum aged in wood, made from pure sugarcane juice, in the tradition of the AOC Martinique. The vintage emphasizes the work of the wood, but without trying to erase the vegetal freshness and cane signature that define the distillery's personality. The aging adds color, roundness, a more enveloping structure, and deeper aromatic notes than those of a white rum. The barrels used in Neisson's wood-aged rums develop nuances ranging from fruit to spice, with a very characteristic toasted and empyreumatic dimension. The 49% strength maintains a nice intensity while offering a more accessible and harmonious sensation than a cask strength. SouBwa thus positions itself as a characterful vintage, both expressive, indulgent, and serious, ideal for discovering another facet of Neisson. It is a rum that appeals as much to lovers of agricole rums as to tasters sensitive to precise aging and controlled woody profiles.
In the glass, Neisson SouBwa 49% reveals an amber, intense, and immediately seductive profile. The nose opens with notes of roasted coffee, toasted cocoa, intense caramel, and warm wood, quickly joined by nuances of stewed fruits and mild spices. The palate is ample, generous, and enveloping, with a beautiful aromatic depth carried by caramel, ripe fruits, spices, and a finely vanilla touch. The woodiness remains present but well integrated, providing structure without masking the agricultural origin of the rum. The finish extends the tasting with gourmand, toasted, and slightly sweet notes, with a roundness that gives great pleasure. SouBwa can be enjoyed neat, in a tulip glass, after a few minutes of aeration to allow the rum to gain precision. It pairs very well with dark chocolate dessert, tarte tatin, roasted pineapple, a gourmet coffee, or a contemplative tasting alongside a mild cigar.
