Epris 2011
Cask Type: Barrel
Bottled: 2023
Age: 12
Region: Brazil
No. of bottles: 281
ABV: 51.2%
Release: Summer Release 2023
Rob Whitehead
“This Brazilian debutant to our range is, at first impressions a tall, willowy character, all high-cheekbones and graceful lines. Green citrus notes intertwine with flecks of funk and grassy touches that remind me of Brazil’s great spirit, Cachaca. This is Rum, however, and the funk intensifies a little on a palate that broadens wonderfully towards a base seemingly enrobed in pillowy-soft fondant icing. The finish is more lifted, with allspice, plump fruit and, pleasingly, Brazil nuts.”
Tasting Notes
This exquisite Brazilian rum from Epris distillery exudes a ripe fruitiness and smoky depth on its first nosing. There is a tarry element with underlying notes of overripe banana cut with lime astringency. Overall, this is elegantly refined and finely balanced. The palate has a grapier taste to it on first approach, before settling and delivering some caramelised elements. The banana returns to soften the initial impact, yet the citrus is plain to be felt. The wood, from American refill barrels and some indigenous Imbuana, is effortlessly integrated. This is an excellent marriage of 80% cane juice and 20% molasses and quite a masterstroke of blending the two. Distilled in 2011, this landed in the UK at 6 years old to mature in our damper climes and seems all the better for it.
Distillery
Epris distillery is located in São Roque near São Paulo. This is a very large plant which has, historically, produced numerous spirits including rum. It now concentrates on producing Sake and fermented rice, making the distillery’s existing rum stocks something of a rarity. The dwindling supply of these exceptionally fine rums is a real sadness.
Doug says: “If ever there was an excuse to visit Brazil, should one need one, then as a rum enthusiast this drop would have tempted me, especially if I had known then what I know now. But this rum, sadly is no longer made. The plant is fairly massive and concentrates on other alcoholic affairs today. Judging by the quality of the distillate I can only take my hat off to the people who made this rum during their time at Epris. They surely knew what they were doing and with judicious maturation the results are truly outstanding.”