First Impressions
This limited-edition Chairman's Reserve was bottled in August 2019 to celebrate The Whisky Exchange's 20th anniversary. At 13 years old and 56.3% ABV, it's a cask-strength Saint Lucian rum with the kind of depth and intensity that limited releases aspire to but rarely achieve.
Tasting Notes
The nose is generously fruity. Ripe papaya and raisins lead, with cherry and rich toffee adding complexity. Oak and tropical spice provide structure, and the cask-strength intensity demands attention. On the palate, the fruit is rich and abundant — papaya, raisins, and cherry create a tropical fruit compote effect. Toffee depth and oak tannins add weight, tropical spice provides warmth, and the power at 56.3% is commanding but not harsh.
The finish is very long, with tropical fruit and raisins fading alongside oak spice and a warming glow.
How to Drink It
Neat with a few drops of water — the cask strength opens up beautifully with dilution, revealing more fruit. This is a special occasion rum.
The Bottom Line
Chairman's Reserve 2006 earns an 8 — limited-edition cask-strength Saint Lucian rum at its finest. At £100, the 13-year age and exclusive bottling justify the premium. A collector's piece that's meant to be drunk, not displayed.
