First Impressions
Vieux Vaval is one of rum's most fascinating small producers. This expression began life at the tiny Arawaks distillery in the south of Haiti, was moved to the capital Port-au-Prince, and aged for eight years in single malt whisky casks. Bottled by the legendary Velier, it represents a rare opportunity to taste Haitian rum with an unusual cask influence.
Tasting
The nose is complex and unusual. Tropical fruit leads — mango, passion fruit — but the whisky cask influence adds a malty, cerealy dimension that creates an intriguing interplay. Herbal complexity, sugarcane sweetness, vanilla, and dried herbs complete a nose that genuinely offers something different from the mainstream.
The palate is rich and layered. Tropical fruit and herbal depth form the Haitian foundation, while the malt-accented sweetness from the whisky casks adds a dimension you simply don't find in standard rum. Dried grass, warm spice, and that ongoing whisky-rum interplay keep the palate engaged and evolving. At 51.8%, the weight and texture are excellent.
The finish is long with herbal notes, malt influence, tropical fruit, and a distinctive Haitian character that lingers.
The Bottom Line
At £115, Vieux Vaval 2015 is a rum for the adventurous. The whisky cask maturation adds a unique dimension to the Haitian base spirit, creating something genuinely original. If you're looking to expand your rum horizons beyond the usual Caribbean suspects, this is an excellent place to start.
