Saint James unveils VSOP agricole rum

by Melita Kiely

La Martiniquaise-Bardinet has added a new expression to its agricole rum portfolio: Saint James VSOP.

Saint James VSOP has been aged for more than four years in American ex-Bourbon oak barrels and new American oak barrels. The new flagship expression is the first of three premium rums that will launch as part of the Saint James brand: VO, VSOP and XO. The aim is to help rum fans navigate the range more easily and gain a better understanding of how the rum is made, and the brand’s philosophy. Furthermore, the new glass bottles are made with a percentage of recycled glass. The labels, cases and gift boxes are also now certified by the Forest Stewardship Council. Marc Sassier, master blender, said about the new VSOP expression: “The quintessence of the Saint James style, powerful and charming at the same time.” Bottled at 43% ABV, Saint James VSOP is available in France from this month (February), priced at RRP €35 (US$43) per 700ml bottle. It will be rolled out internationally in March. Saint James VSOP is recommended for sipping neat or mixed in cocktails, particularly in a Rhum Fashioned. Saint James Distillery has been making rum using pure sugarcane juice from its own plantations since 1765. Last year, Saint James revealed its own cocktail bitters following two years of research and development.