Background
This bottling of Savanna from Rum Nation was a Belgium-exclusive released in 2021. It was column distilled from molasses, tropically aged for nine years in ex-cognac, then continentally aged for an additional three years in second fill Oloroso barrels before being bottled at a cask strength of 59%. I was a big fan of the sherried Savanna 2006 from Rare Rums, the single cask focused brand of Rum Nation, so I have high hopes for this!
Tasting
On the nose, I get old books, tobacco, walnuts, pecans, raisins, maple syrup, vanilla bean, nutmeg, black licorice, and a little eucalyptus. There’s a subtle sulfury quality to it, which I sometimes get with sherry finishes like this.
The palate is impressively oaky and mildly sweet. I get more raisins, maple syrup, nuts, vanilla, and spices, but also ripe pears, Red Delicious apples, and a tiny bit of sweaty gym sock. The sherry influence is heavy and I love it. The sulfur returns as well, but it’s subdued enough to be enjoyable.
Verdict
Another great Savanna. Though it isn’t quite as nuanced as its older sibling from the Rare Rums line, it is nonetheless a rich, oaky sherry bomb which I enjoy very much. Savanna traditionelle has become one of my go-tos when I need a break from high ester palate manglers or still strength agricoles, and this rum fits nicely into that niche. (7/10)