This single-barrel, single-estate rum by Luisita is a private barrel pick selected by Raj Sadhwani, Johnssen Li, and John Go of Intrinsic Spirits, a Philippine-based company focused on importing and distributing quality distilled beverages. This six-year-old rum from an ex-bourbon cask (no. 2116) was distilled from Luisita’s 2015 harvest, was bottled in 2022, and is naturally presented at 59.2% ABV.

Color: Butterscotch candy.

On the nose: Banana aromas take a big step forward, with specific nuances of overripe bananas and saba bananas. It’s distinctively warm and creamy, with Bran Flakes, roasted walnuts, cumin, and almond milk swirling around. The nutty flavors comprise the core of the middle notes, alongside dried mango, orange pith, and fresh and crunchy sourdough bread. A trace of Milka chocolate, too.

In the mouth: A thick and slightly oily texture. Similar to the nose, the nuttiness is prominent, leading with almonds and steamed peanuts, with citrus oil, saba banana, and sweet gumamela trailing behind. There’s a decent amount of depth, as the flavors develop into an emergent subtle layer of spice brought by white pepper and oak. Near the end of the development, there are honey crackers and brown sugar simple syrup made with a bit of salt. A long finish reveals very subtle floral notes: rosewater and Santan nectar.