William Hinton Edicao Limitada Rum Agricola da Madeira

Given its high proof and complex flavor profile, William Hinton Edicao Limitada Rum Agricola da Madeira shines when sipped neat or with a single large ice cube to slowly open up its intricate layers. For those who enjoy cocktails, this rum can add depth and character to spirit-forward drinks, particularly those with herbal or citrus notes that complement its grassy, saline qualities. Its bold flavors make it an excellent companion to rich, savory dishes like grilled meats or aged cheeses, and its warming qualities are perfect for cooler evenings or as a contemplative after-dinner sipper.

Nose: Sharp citrus notes of lemon zest and lime peel burst forth, followed by grassy undertones reminiscent of fresh-cut sugarcane. There's a subtle briny quality, like a sea breeze, complemented by hints of tropical fruit and white pepper.

Palate: The high proof immediately makes its presence known with a powerful alcohol bite. Once this subsides, layers of flavor unfold. Grassy and vegetal notes dominate, balanced by tart citrus and a touch of green olive. The underlying salinity persists, adding complexity. As it develops, subtle notes of vanilla and caramel emerge.

Finish: Long and warming, with the high alcohol content leaving a lasting impression. The grassy, agricole character lingers, accompanied by a peppery spice. The finish tapers off with hints of citrus peel and a subtle sweetness, reminiscent of raw sugarcane juice.

William Hinton Edicao Limitada Rum Agricola da Madeira is crafted from fresh sugar cane juice that's fermented for 24-36 hours before being distilled in a century-old single-column copper still. What sets this rum apart is its higher proof distillation to 140 proof (70% ABV), which captures more of the raw cane's intense flavors and aromas compared to lower-proof distillations.

• William Hinton's Edicao Limitada is distilled in a century-old copper column still that survived a devastating flood in 2010, which destroyed much of the distillery's equipment. This resilient still continues to produce exceptional rum, carrying on a legacy that nearly washed away.
• The sugar cane used for this rum is harvested by hand on the steep volcanic slopes of Madeira, where mechanized farming is impossible. This labor-intensive process contributes to the rum's unique terroir and helps preserve traditional agricultural practices on the island.
• At 69% ABV, this rum is so potent that it's actually above the legal limit for spirits in some countries. In Sweden, for example, the strongest commercially available alcohol is capped at 60% ABV, making this Madeira rum too strong to be sold there without special permission.