Overview
Brand: Rhum Barbancourt
Origin: Société du Rhum Barbancourt, Port-au-Prince, Ouest, Haiti
Still: Column
Age: Unaged
Finish: n/a
ABV: 55%
Rhum Barbancourt Haitian Proof is the newest expression in the core lineup of the largest Haitian rhum brand. To my knowledge, the previous unaged rhum has been or is currently being phased out, in favor of this new high-proof offering.
This expression is– like other Barbancourt rhums– sugarcane juice-based, and was distilled in a copper column in Port-Au-Prince, Haiti. After distillation, it was proofed down to 55% ABV and bottled unaged. One note is that most marketing and labels reference "55º" or "55 degrees (of proof)", which is comparable to 55% ABV; my bottle was a sample, and has a slightly different– but comparable, as a "proof" measurement– numbering of 110.
This bottle was provided to me by a supplier or other industry-connected individual, with no obligation other than giving this an honest review.
Appearance
Clear, low viscosity
Nose
Sugarcane, green bell pepper, black olive brine, bay leaf
Palate
Sugarcane, bay leaf, thyme, vanilla bean, sport pepper, red raisin
Finish
Medium, herbal; thyme, bay leaf, mint, green bell pepper
Rating: 6/10
Summary
This is a great high-proof expression that exemplifies a lot of what I love about clairin– the only other overproof Haitian sugarcane spirit I've had– but in a lighter package.
Rhum Barbancourt Haitian Proof predominantly features the aroma and flavor of bright, fresh-cut sugarcane, with plenty of herbs like bay leaf, thyme, star anise, and mint. In that regard, I'm also reminded of fellow sugarcane juice-based rum El Amparo, which is heavily herbal. Sport and green bell peppers show up to provide a touch of spice and savoriness. It's approachable (to those who like higher strength rum) while also giving a peek at the notes typically seen in clairin.
I'm not one to reach for Barbancourt's lighter style rhums that often, but this is a welcome change. I look forward to grabbing a bottle when this hits shelves near me.