by Anaïs Brisson, U.S. Operations Manager for Saison Rum
The Tessendier family have been producers and distillers of cognac since 1880. In 2017, they turned to the Caribbean and devoted their know-how to the creation of their own rum: Saison Rum. The origins of the name Saison were inspired by its journey, from the research of the terroirs to the maturation of this rum. 4 key stages, just like the 4 seasons of the year.
Summer: Origins
After careful consideration, the Tessendier family chose rums from 3 distinct terroirs in the Caribbean islands: Barbados, Trinidad and Jamaica. Historically, rum was first produced on the island of Barbados. The fertile, chalky soil is similar to that found in our own Cognac lands. Two types of distillation are used on the island: pot stills and column stills. Barbados offers a wide choice of distillates to create a subtle and complex blend for Saison Rum.
and licorice notes that offer freshness and complexity. Aromas and flavors of vegetal, floral, clean green sugarcane notes, with a touch of bitterness shine through with the small percentage of Jamaican rum used in the blends.
Autumn: Aging
The selected rums are aged in ex-bourbon American white oak barrels on their land of origin. The rums react to the heat and hygrometry specific to the Caribbean, which gives a unique oxidation to the future rums, accelerating their maturity and concentrating their aroma.
Winter: Blending
The rums are then shipped to France, where they are blended - no sugar is added to the rums at any stage. The intention of the Cellar Master is to bring out the typicity of these terroirs in a harmonious balance - with each island bringing a distinct flavor profile, the blended rum reflects the best that each island offers in an elevated blend.
Spring: Finishing
The rums are then left to mature for several months in French oak barrels that have contained Cognac, on the banks of the Charente River. Because no sugar is added to the rums, the cognac leaves a distinct touch of sweetness and stone fruit to the grassy and tropical fruit flavors of the original rum. Finishing the rum in cognac barrels weaves together the diverse flavor profiles of each island with an undertone of warmth and spice typical to cognac.
Unique in the complexity of its aromatic profile, Saison Rum takes its harmony and delicacy from its Caribbean roots. To be discovered through a complete range to be tasted at temperature, on ice or in cocktails.