St Lucia 1931 Rum / Third Edition / 82nd Anniversary arrives from St Lucia with a clear sense of purpose. St Lucia has built a reputation for aged rums that balance tradition with accessibility, and this expression is a fine example of that philosophy. At 43% ABV, it sits comfortably within the range you would expect, offering enough intensity to be interesting without becoming unwieldy.
Careful ageing in oak casks adds layers of complexity that elevate this spirit beyond its younger counterparts. St Lucia has selected their casks with precision, and the time spent maturing in the St Lucia climate — where the angel's share is considerably higher than in cooler climates — has concentrated the flavours beautifully.
On the nose, expect polished oak, vanilla custard, dried apricot, cinnamon, gentle smoke. The palate delivers silky with honey, dried apricot, cinnamon, gentle tobacco, and well-integrated oak tannins. The finish is long and elegant with vanilla, oak, butterscotch, and a dry spice farewell.
Best appreciated neat or with a single cube of ice to open up the aromatics. The complexity here rewards slow sipping. If you prefer a mixed drink, this makes a superb Rum Old Fashioned — the aged character provides the depth that the cocktail demands.
St Lucia 1931 Rum / Third Edition / 82nd Anniversary earns its place through consistent quality and genuine character. At £86.75, it offers good value and delivers a drinking experience that is a clear step above the ordinary. St Lucia has produced a aged rum that stands up well against the competition. A solid recommendation for both newcomers and experienced rum drinkers.