Clairin Vieux Vaval 2016 Caroni cask 10 yo Vol.54,6% Cl.70

This is the first release of Vaval Clairin to evolve into *Rhum Vieux* (aged rum), matured in old ex-Caroni rum casks.

It is the first Vaval Clairin to become a true rum, surpassing 10 years of aging without losing the primary aromatic characteristics of Vaval Clairin, while gaining a new flavor profile typical of aged Caroni rums.

Aged for 10 years, Clairin Vieux Vaval 2016 hails from the renowned Cavaillon terroir.

Crafted by Fritz Vaval from the indigenous Madame Meuze sugarcane variety, it is aged entirely in the tropical climate of Port-au-Prince in a selection of ex-Caroni barrels.

Produced using Madame Meuze cane—one of the finest heritage varieties, now grown exclusively in Haiti—which is hand-harvested at peak ripeness and immediately transported to the distillery.

The cane is pressed in a small mill using a gentler process than is typical in the French Antilles.

Fermentation begins spontaneously using indigenous yeasts.

The distillation still is heated by a fire fueled by *bagasse*—the sun-dried, pressed sugarcane fiber.

Aged entirely in the tropical climate of Port-au-Prince in a selection of six ex-Caroni casks, Clairin Vieux Vaval 2016 is the first Clairin to surpass 10 years of aging and become a true rum.

This release marks a milestone: it is the oldest expression of Vaval ever produced and the only 10-year-old Clairin Vaval currently in existence in Haiti.

Created by blending six ex-Caroni casks filled in 2016—which matured with an "angel's share" exceeding 58%—it is bottled at full proof.

Production was extremely limited.

A pure, profound, and exceptionally complex spirit.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: An explosion of flavor featuring abundant notes of vanilla, exotic fruit, chocolate, and pear. Floral undertones.

Palate: Vibrant, with a fine balance between dry tannins, the sweetness of honey and vanilla, and the smoothness of caramel. Deeply woody, leading into a finish with spicy aromas.

Finish: Persistent and velvety smooth. It leaves you wanting another sip right away!

The 2016 Clairin Vieux Vaval is a refined rum—perfect for pairing with one of the world's finest cigars, or, alternatively, for savoring slowly alongside a Mastro De Paja pipe and aged Burley flake tobacco.