La Progresiva Rum - Ron De Vigia 13 Years Old 41% ABV 700ml

A distinctive, sophisticated, Cuban sipping rum, with a growing following. This is not a rich, sweet style: it is dry and retrained. This will appeal to drinkers who enjoy a more savoury, oak-led experience.

A collaboration between The Island Rum Company and the master rum makers of Distillerie Vigia, it combines 11- and 15-year-old rums, rather than being a straight 13yo single-vintage. Matured in American oak and bourbon casks under Cuba's tropical conditions, the warm climate encourages an intense interaction between spirit and wood, while the traditional column-still keeps the finished rum elegant and relatively light. Bottled at 41% ABV.

On the nose, soft caramel and vanilla mingle with citrus, oak and gentle spice, with an intriguing hint of smoke. The palate is distinctly Cuban: dry and fresh rather than syrupy, bringing honey, vanilla, citrus, dried fruit and figs together with seasoned oak and a subtle smoky edge. The texture is silky and approachable, while the finish develops into warm spice, smoky wood and lingering citrus.

Enjoy it neat or with a single large cube of ice to appreciate its balance and subtle smoky character. It also works beautifully with a splash of cola and fresh lime, or in classic rum serves such as an Old Fashioned, Rum Manhattan or El Presidente.