Compagnie des Indes Jamaica rum is a blend of Jamaican rums, primarily from the Clarendon and Worthy Park distilleries, with versions that include other distilleries such as Hampden and Monymusk in some editions. It is characterized by its typically Jamaican style, made with molasses through distillation in pot stills and, in some cases, column stills, giving it a robust and aromatic profile. These are the main versions and their characteristics: 1. Jamaica 5 Years (43% ABV): • Aging: Minimum 5 years in bourbon barrels. • Aroma: Fruity notes (banana, nuts, plum, peach), with floral hints (holunderblüten, chamomile) and wood. • Flavor: Fruity (tropical, citrus, pear), with moderate sweetness (10-16 g/L of added sugar in some editions), soft spices, and a touch of Jamaican esters, although less intense than other rums from the island. • Use: Ideal for beginners in Jamaican rums, to enjoy neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails such as a Mai Tai or Daiquiri. • Recognitions: Bronze medal at the 2017 Madrid International Rum Conference. • Notes: This is an accessible rum, with a balanced profile but less "funk" (intense esters) than other Jamaican rums, making it less complex for experts but appealing to beginners. 2. Jamaica Navy Strength 5 Years (57% ABV): • Aging: 5 years in oak barrels, often in Europe. • Aroma: Powerful, with pronounced esters, ripe fruits (banana, peach), notes of glue, molasses, citrus, and oak. • Flavor: Intense, with initial bitterness, honeyed sweetness, dried fruits, and toasted spices. The high alcohol content provides a spicy sensation, but remains balanced. • Use: Recommended with a little water or ice to soften it, or in powerful cocktails due to its robust character. • Notes: A blend of pot still and column still, with no added colors or sugars, notable for its authenticity and "Jamaican soul." It is more intense than the 43% version, but not as complex as high-proof rums like Hampden. Brand Philosophy: Compagnie des Indes, founded by Florent Beuchet in 2014, seeks to offer authentic rums that reflect the essence of their origins, drawing inspiration from the ancient trading companies of the 17th and 18th centuries. Their rums, both single barrel and blended, are selected for their quality and authenticity, often avoiding additives or colorings. Overview: Compagnie des Indes Jamaica rums are an excellent representation of the Jamaican style, with an emphasis on esters, tropical fruits, and a robust character. The 5-Year version (43%) is ideal for beginners or cocktails, the Navy Strength (57%) for those seeking intensity, and the Great White (50%) for a fresh and vibrant profile. They are versatile products, striking a balance between accessibility and authenticity, although Jamaican rum purists may find them less intense in esters compared to brands like Hampden.