Holmes Cay Réunion Island Rum Traditionnel is a Other Rum from the Holmes Cay Rum brand crafted in Réunion Island.
This molasses-based rum from Réunion Island, aged in ex-cognac casks, resurrects a historic style once crucial to classic tiki cocktails like the Mai Tai and Last Rites. This style was popularized by legendary Trader Vic, who was responsible for bringing Tiki to the masses. Interestingly, Réunion Island, where this rum originates, is home to one of the world's most active volcanoes, Piton de la Fournaise, which has erupted over 150 times since the 17th century, potentially influencing the unique terroir of the sugarcane used in this rum's production.
Cocktail enthusiasts should embrace Holmes Cay Réunion Island Rum Traditionnel for its unique tropical aging in ex-cognac casks and its historical significance as a key ingredient in classic tiki cocktails, offering a rare opportunity to taste an authentic French molasses rum style that was once essential to iconic drinks like the Mai Tai and Last Rites.
Holmes Cay Réunion Island Rum Traditionnel shines in tiki-style cocktails or sipped neat to appreciate its complex flavors, though it's equally delightful over ice on a warm summer evening; its rich, spicy notes complement tropical fruits and pair beautifully with Caribbean-inspired dishes like jerk chicken or coconut shrimp.
Nose: Initial aromas of rich cola and vanilla, followed by subtle hints of citrus zest and warm baking spices. A light tropical fruit note emerges, reminiscent of ripe pineapple and mango.
Palate: Smooth entry with a medium body. Prominent flavors of caramel and toasted oak, balanced by layers of cinnamon and nutmeg. Notes of dried fruit and a touch of coffee add complexity. The ex-cognac cask influence contributes a subtle grape-like sweetness.
Finish: Medium to long finish with a pleasant warmth. Lingering notes of vanilla and spice, complemented by a slight oak dryness. A hint of tropical fruit resurfaces, leaving a crisp and clean aftertaste that invites another sip.
Holmes Cay Réunion Island Rum Traditionnel is crafted from molasses at Distillerie de Savanna on Réunion Island, then aged for three years in ex-cognac casks in the tropical climate before being bottled in New York at 46% ABV, resulting in a unique rum that captures both the island's terroir and the influence of French oak aging.
1 oz Holmes Cay Réunion Island Rum Traditionnel
1 oz Appleton Estate Jamaican Rum
1 oz fresh squeezed lime juice (reserve the hull)
0.5 oz Pierre Ferrand Dry Curaçao
.25 oz Almond Orgeat
.25 oz Rock Candy Syrup or 2:1 Rich Syrup
Add all ingredients to a shaker with 2 cups
crushed ice
Shake for around 10 seconds.
Pour unstrained into a double old-fashioned glass.
Garnish with spent lime hull and a mint bouquet that you’ve slapped to release the oils.
Use a short straw so you can take in the aroma of mint as you sip.
1 oz Holmes Cay Réunion Island Rum Traditionnel
1 oz Appleton Estate Jamaican Rum
1 oz fresh squeezed lime juice (reserve the hull)
0.5 oz Pierre Ferrand Dry Curaçao
.25 oz Almond Orgeat
.25 oz Rock Candy Syrup or 2:1 Rich Syrup
Add all ingredients to a shaker with 2 cups
crushed ice
Shake for around 10 seconds.
Pour unstrained into a double old-fashioned glass.
Garnish with spent lime hull and a mint bouquet that you’ve slapped to release the oils.
Use a short straw so you can take in the aroma of mint as you sip.
Gift message (optional)
