Among the icons of agricole rum, the BALLY Rhum Vieux Agricole Cuvée Art Déco 1ère Edition 42° unveils the uniqueness of an AOC Martinique at the height of its expression. Its pyramidal silhouette, an aesthetic statement inspired by the decorative arts, announces a work of taste honed by time. This rare edition, from the historic J. Bally brand and produced at the Saint James distillery, brings together three expressive vintages, each adding its own hue to the aromatic picture. At 42°, the alcohol is blended with restraint, offering a broad, silky texture that lets the terroir shine. For the discerning enthusiast, the collector seeking a legendary bottle, or the host wishing to elevate the end of a meal, this cuvée adds that extra soul which turns a tasting into a signature moment. It stands out for the harmony of its maturations, the nobility of its oak and the depth of its fruit, all supported by the precision of the AOC Martinique.

Assemblage et vinification

This aged agricole rum is an inspired blend of three complementary vintages. The 2003, matured 15 years in French oak casks, brings notes of ripe fruit and delicate chocolate. The 2007, finished 12 years in American oak, contributes dried fruit and vanilla-sweetness. The 1998, rested 18 years in French oak, delivers the depth of macerated fruit, an undergrowth thread and an almost balsamic patina. Distilled from pure cane juice following the standards of the AOC Martinique, the lot is then married with attention to balance rather than showmanship. The selection of casks respects aromatic integrity, allowing time to polish tannins, round the matter and seal a subtle oaky signature. The result is a characterful, refined cuvée built on the accuracy of aging and the clarity of the terroir.

Notes de dégustation

• Appearance : Deep amber with mahogany highlights, clear and shimmering in the glass, a promise of careful concentration and long-controlled maturation.
• Nose : Initial notes of softly ripe fruit and chocolate, quickly joined by hints of forest floor and walnut husk. Aeration reveals a touch of dried fruit, some candied fruit accents and a noble cocoa nuance that marks precise oak influence.
• Palate : Gentle, enveloping attack, unfolding candied fruit and chocolate that stretch with composure. The long finish evokes macerated fruit and the hushed freshness of the forest floor, with a caressing persistence carried by a perfectly integrated strength.

Température de service et conseils

Serve between 16 and 18°C in a tulip glass or small tasting glass to concentrate aromas and let the texture develop. One minute of airing is often enough to release the oak nuances and delicate chocolate notes. Avoid ice, which would harden the structure. Store the bottle upright, protected from light and temperature variations to preserve the purity of the profile. At the end of a meal, when sipped slowly, this rum reveals an almost meditative depth. A micro-splash of pure water, if desired, can further open the fruity register without altering the overall balance.

Accords mets et vin

• Aperitifs : bellota ham shavings, toasted pecans, parmesan bites, served sparingly to prepare the palate.
• Starters : pan-seared foie gras with figs, roasted pineapple carpaccio with mild spices, lightly smoked tuna tartare.
• Main courses : honey-glazed yellow poultry with chestnut honey, citrus duck, veal fillet with reduced jus and parsnip purée.
• Cheeses : aged comté, extra-mature mimolette, creamy blue, to converse with the oaky depth.
• Desserts : dark chocolate fondant grand cru, freshly soaked baba, thin tart of caramelised fruits with a hint of vanilla.

Moments de dégustation

The BALLY Art Déco 1ère Edition 42° is the perfect companion:

• To mark a significant occasion where the signature of a great rum belongs.
• As a digestif at a gourmet dinner, when conversation lingers and time seems to stand still.
• As a collectible gift, an iconic bottle for knowledgeable enthusiasts and aesthetes.

Caractéristiques

• Nom : BALLY Rhum Vieux Agricole Cuvée Art Déco 1ère Edition 42°
• Appellation : AOC Martinique
• Type : Rhum vieux agricole, assemblage
• Assemblage : 1998, 2003, 2007
• Vieillissement : 1998 en chêne français, 2003 en chêne français, 2007 en chêne américain
• Degré d’alcool : 42%
• Contenance : 70 cl
• Distillerie : Saint James, marque J. Bally (fondée en 1923)
• Design : bouteille pyramidale iconique Art Déco
• Édition : édition limitée
• Service : 16 à 18°C, verre tulipe recommandé
• Origine : Martinique