Rhum J.M Agricole Blanc White Rum 50% is produced at the Distillerie du Bellevue at the foot of Mount Pelée in Martinique. It's made from fresh-pressed sugarcane juice that undergoes natural fermentation for 36-48 hours before being distilled in a Créole copper column still. The rum is rested for at least six months in stainless steel tanks before being bottled at 50% ABV and typically sells for around $35-39.
As expected from a 100-proof spirit, alcohol heat overwhelms from the first sip to the peppery finish. Get beyond that, and the reward is a bright, honeyed scent and bold palate that shows lychee and rosewater, with bouncy bubblegum and rubber.
The nose has the funky intensity of a white agricole blanc, backed up by tropical banana, coconut, and papaya notes. The finish recalls notes of cherry pits and more ripe banana, with a petrol sheen to it.