First Impressions
Clairin Sonson 2020 arrives with a confident presence that immediately signals quality. A citrus-forward Clairin produced by Stephan Kalil Saoud, Sonson is made exclusively with sugar cane syrup, made from locally-grown indigenous Madame Meuze sugar cane. The palate offers This is a rum that rewards careful attention, revealing layers of complexity with each sip.
The Spirit
As an agricole expression, this rum is distilled directly from fresh sugar cane juice rather than molasses, giving it a distinctly different character to most Caribbean rums. The terroir of the cane fields comes through clearly — you can taste the soil, the sun, and the ocean breeze in every sip. This is rum-making at its most elemental, where the raw ingredient speaks loudest.
The 51.1% ABV bottling strength is well-chosen, providing enough power to carry the delicate vegetal and floral notes without overwhelming them. Agricole rums demand a certain respect from the drinker, and this one rewards that attention handsomely.
How to Drink It
A Ti'Punch is the obvious serve — a measure of rum, a disc of fresh lime, and a touch of cane syrup, stirred and served at room temperature. For something longer, try it in a rum-forward Mai Tai where the grassy complexity adds real depth. The agricole character also shines in a simple highball with sparkling water and a lime wedge.
The Verdict
At £57.50, Clairin Sonson 2020 offers decent value for a rum of this quality. It is a spirit that rewards careful drinking and delivers genuine pleasure with each pour. Worth seeking out for anyone exploring the category.
