The Plantation Barbados 5 Years Rum is aged in American oak barrel for three to four years, then matured for another one to two years in Ferrand French oak casks. It exudes a bright amber color, and has an ABV of 40%. You’re greeted with aromas of a bakery upon first whiff, with notes of toasted marshmallow and pipe tobacco. The nose notes evolve to include black raisin, bacon fat, and prune upon after further aeration.
It has a bittersweet entry, with toasty, fruity notes on the palate, and a chocolate finish.
The Plantation Barbados 5 Years Rum is incredible to drink neat, in a small glass being warmed by your hands. You can also have it with a splash of ice and a wedge of lime. This is a rum that also works well in cocktails, like a simple rum and coke, or the classic Mai Tai.
And it’s easy to make. Shake together some dark rum, the Plantation Barbados 5 Years Rum, fresh orange juice, fresh lime juice, triple sec, almond extract, granulated sugar, and grenadine. Strain into a glass with ice, and garnish with a slice of orange.
It was in 1989 that Alexandre Gabriel discovered Maison Ferrand. One of the oldest spirit brands found in the Cognac region, it had a glowing reputation but sadly, was not doing too well. Alexandre saw an opportunity, and bought the brand.
But who is Alexandre Gabriel? He is an entrepreneur with a tireless passion for incredible rum and cognac. His curiosity is what drives his never-ending search for the best rums. In 1990, he combed the Caribbean to taste and experience the incredible rums of the region—not just for their flavors, but for the processes. He dedicated 15 years of his life to perfecting his rum-making, and it was all worth it.
In 2012, Alexandre was given the award Master Rum Blender of the Year at the Golden Rum Barrel Awards. The American Distilling Institute also named him Distiller of the Year.
Presently, he has become a name in the spirit industry, garnering praise from all over. His passion as president and owner of Maison Ferrand has birthed—and continues to grow, three major spirits under the brand: Ferrand Cognac, Citadelle Gin, and Plantation Rum.
Store your bottle upright in a cool, dark place, ideally between 12 and 15°C. Unopened bottles can last for an indefinite amount of time, but the closer you get to the bottom third of the bottle, please consume quickly to prevent oxidation and taste alteration.