Saint James Cuvée L'Essentiel

Review by Stefan Persson

Most helpful positive review

Stefan Persson

May 2025801 reviewsSweden

9.1/10

This is an exceptional Rhum from Saint James. It’s a blend of the vintages of 1998, 2000 and 2003 all of them aged for over 12 years in small bourbon casks. I can really recommend it, even though the average price is a little high at around €180.

Review by TheRhumhoe

Most helpful mixed review

TheRhumhoe

Jun 20231,076 reviews

7.9/10

In the same context as the Cuvée Quintessence, this Cuvée L'Essentiel can be perplexing when you first look at the bottle. The nose is lively, fruity (prune, cherry, fruit brandy), quite woody and chocolatey. Aromas of spice, toast and sugarcane melt well with the juice. A dry, round and pleasant nose. The attack on the palate is controlled. Spices (cinnamon, pepper, vanilla) and wood take over, followed by dried fruit (prune), nuts, chocolate and sugarcane. The whole is round and easy-drinking, but would have been more interesting with a few more degrees. The finish is very dark and dry, with wood, dried fruit, roasted nuts, spices, leather and tannins. A good Saint James on paper, but so classic that it won't surprise anyone. The pretty decanter syndrome strikes again, as the juice is not worth the price paid, despite its undeniable qualities.

Review by crazyforgoodbooze

crazyforgoodbooze

Oct 20252,663 reviewsGermany

8.1/10

Significantly woodier and drier than expected. Delicious but overall a little too bitter for my taste. However, it develops over time into a delicious, heavy, easy sipper, perfect for a cold winter evening.