RHUM CLEMENT PRIVATE CASK
MARSALA & SAUTERNES FINISH RHUM VIEUX AGRICOLE
MARTINIQUE, FRANCE
Why Buy: We're in love with agricole rhum over here, and we're excited for you to fall in love, too. That's why we're making these available to our Concierge Family for 16% OFF! And that's why we're showcasing the Martinique master, Clément, one of our favorites. Whether you're an agricole aficionado or new to its grassy, complex charms, these super-rare (fewer than 300 bottles worldwide, each), cask-strength rhums showcase the pinnacle of this jewel of a spirit.
Why Agricole Rhum Is Special: Unlike most rums made from molasses, agricole rhum is distilled from fresh-pressed sugarcane juice, capturing the plant's vibrant essence and Martinique's terroir in every sip. It's a style that’s both rare and revered, and Clément elevates it further still. They've taken their exquisite agricole, aged it in ex-bourbon American oak, then created two exceptional bottlings, one finished in Marsalacasks and the other finished in Sauternes casks.
What They're Saying: Habitation Clément is, as The Whisky Exchange rightly declared, "the mecca of rhum agricole production in Martinique."
Our Tasting Notes: The decision to bottle at cask strength and eschew chill-filtration means you're tasting these rhums as nature — and the master distiller — intended. Each delivers uncommon intensity and complexity.
* Marsala Finish: The nose bursts with candied fruits and sundried raisins, a prelude to the complexity within. On the palate, a roundness emerges, cradling notes of rich cocoa, supple leather, and an array of dried fruits. The finish brings a surprising freshness, with a subtle bitter note that adds depth and intrigue.
* Sauternes Finish: Here, the nose is a complex panoply of stone fruits - ripe peaches and apricots take center stage. The palate offers a delicate balance of sweetness and smoke, a testament to the interplay between rhum and wine cask. It concludes with a lingering finish that echoes those initial fruity notes.
The Story: To properly tell the tale of Habitation Clément, you pretty much have to tell the history of Martinique itself. Founded in 1887 by Homère Clément, the estate was born out of necessity during a sugar industry crisis. Clément, a mayor and member of the General Council of Martinique, saw an opportunity in distilling rhum directly from sugarcane juice — a technique that would evolve into the agricole style we celebrate today. The estate, centered around the historic Domaine de l'Acajou, is more than just a distillery; it's a cultural landmark. The grounds, still encircled by their original stone walls, house not only the production facilities but also a botanical garden and a renowned contemporary art center. It's a place where tradition and innovation coexist, much like the rhums produced there. Recently, Clément has made a commitment to continually push the boundaries of what rhum agricole can be. Their Barrel Program, from which these special releases hail, is a testament to this spirit of exploration and excellence.
The Specs: These rhums begin their journey with fresh-pressed sugarcane juice, fermented and distilled to capture the essence of Martinique's terroir. After distillation, they spend four years maturing in American oak barrels, developing depth and character. The magic truly happens in the final 10 months, as the rhums are transferred to their finishing casks. One batch rests in barrels from Sicily's Frazzitta winery, soaking up the rich essence of Marsala. The other finds its home in casks from the prestigious Sauternes appellations of Barsac and Preignac.
ABV: Sauternes Finish was bottled at 58.7% ABV, and Marsala finish clocks in at 59.4% ABV
Fun Fact: The term "rhum" with an 'h' is specific to agricole-style rums from the French Caribbean. This spelling, protected by French law, is a mark of distinction and tradition.
Our Guarantee: We always buy and source direct, so rest assured – your rhums will arrive in your hands with pristine provenance. Secure yours today!
*Offer NOT valid in-store. This offer is made pre-arrival, with wines estimated to be delivered to your preferred store in Winter 2024 (Dec. 20, 2024 - Mar. 20, 2025). All sale prices are the lowest available at Total Wine & More and ONLY valid through Concierge Sales. No further discounts or coupons may be applied. Offer not valid in CT, KS, MI, NC, NM, NY, SC, TN, VA, WA, & WI. This offer will expire on Monday, November 4, 2024.