First Impressions
Compagnie des Indes is a French independent bottler with a talent for finding unusual casks. This 14-year-old rum from Florida, finished for 16 months in a French whisky cask, is a perfect example — the combination of American rum and French whisky wood creates something genuinely distinctive.
Tasting Notes
The nose is spicy and intriguing. Pink peppercorn stands out alongside dark chocolate, oak, vanilla, and dried fruit. On the palate, the peppery spice is the defining character, with dark chocolate depth and vanilla providing richness. Dried fruit sweetness and the French whisky cask influence add complexity.
The finish is medium-long, with peppery spice and chocolate fading warmly.
How to Drink It
Neat — the unusual flavour profile deserves attention. The pink peppercorn character makes it an interesting food pairing rum, particularly with spiced dishes.
The Bottom Line
Florida Secrete earns a 7 — a genuinely unusual rum with a spicy character that sets it apart. At £50, the 14-year age and creative cask finishing offer good value for adventurous drinkers.
