Review #404; Rum #34: Savanna 14yr Grand Arome Thunderstruck

This is a 14 year old Expression from the Savanna distillery on Reunion Island.

ABV: 65.1%

Nose: Pungent, Soured Fruits, Overripe Mango and Guava. Juicy Fruit Gum, Allspice, Slight Vicks Vapor Rub, caramel.

Palate: Medium Mouthfeel. Slight Heat, Overipe funky fruits again. Allspice, Juicy fruit gum, dark chocolate, vicks vapor rub.

Finish: Medium length. Warm and moist. Over-ripe fruits, allspice, Juicy fruit gum, Black Pepper.

Rating: 6/10

Overall, this is a really interesting and unique rum. It comes across with a spectrum of very pungent and unique flavors. The fruity gum, the cough medicine / menthol, and the over-ripe fruit all make for a unique experience. What brings this down a bit for me is the vicks/cough medicine and that it drinks a bit hot. I get that it’s 65%, but it’s a touch unbalanced with the heat.

1 | Disgusting | So bad I poured it out.

2 | Poor | I wouldn’t consume by choice.

3 | Bad | Multiple flaws.

4 | Sub-par | Not bad, but better exists.

5 | Good | Good, just fine.

6 | Very Good | A cut above.

7 | Great | Well above average

8 | Excellent | Really quite exceptional.

9 | Incredible | An all time favorite

10 | Perfect | Perfect