Long Pond 2007 - TECC - 62,5%
Photo taken somewhere in Stuttgart
With 1500/1700 g/hlap, which represents the very end of the so far known esterlevel scale, we are walking on extreme paths here. See this as the Octomore of rum, even if this clarification would rather fit the Hampden Distillery. Hampden is more known for their high-ester expressions, which they create by pracitising wild and longlasting fermentation plus using witcheries like dunder and muck pits. For further information concerning Long Ponds or Hampdens complex history and numerous styles we strongly recommend a deep dive into the extensive and educational reports by Barrel Aged Thoughts
Nose
Can somebody call an exorcist?! The first impression is mad, vicious and bold as hell. Thick waves of sweet rotten pineapples and papayas, slayed several times into Aceton, gasoline and were afterwards dried on glowing asphalt. But it makes you go back in there because the second sniff delivers almost beautiful notes of soap, plums, dates and eucalypt. In a schizophrenic way, this harmonises very well (like a Dr. Hyde & Mr.Jekyll of rum). With water: More exotic fruits like physalis and dragon fruit appear, together with the oldest butter cakes you can find at your grandma's house. Also cedar wood and sandalwood, soaked with nail polish.
Palate
Mon Dieu, this is hauntigly strong and sour. Density at its maximum, with a strong, mouth coating astringency and a warmth that is heating up the whole system. An explosion of overripe pineapples and papayas, at the last stage before fermenting (when sweetness is at the top).
With water: Still extreme, but getting creamier with white and dark chocolate. Sour grapefruits pickled in brine say hello.
Finish
You can still taste it the day after your last sip. Rubber-y, bonedry, ash-y and even a little bit fresh (maybe some eucalypt residues).
Rating
This rum strongly reminds us of a Francis Bacon painting. You can find hidden pain and beauty in it, while it's disturbing, fascinating and very touching at the same time. Isn't this true art? Not for everyday and everyone, but we love it.
