Penny Blue XO Single Estate Mauritian Rum

Product Description

In 1847 Sir William Gomm was made Governor of Mauritius. His first task was to improve the Mauritian Postal system and enable Mauritius to have its own locally produced stamps. The Governor commissioned a local engraver named Barnard to produce 500 one penny and 500 two pence postage stamps (the famous Penny Blue). Coincidently, at that time, Lady Gomm was hosting a fancy dress ball and wanted to use the new stamps to send the invitation cards. Honoured by his task, the engraver rushed to his work shop but forgot the wording for the left side of the stamp. He went to ask the postmaster but as he came to the building, he read “Post Office” on the shop front. Believing these were the right words for the stamp, he dashed back to his workshop to finish the design. Just before sending the cards, the mistake was spotted. But as Lady Gomm was eager to send the invitations there was no time to re-engrave the plate with the usual “Post Paid” inscription. From the 500 Penny Blues produced, only 12 are believed to be in existence today. In 1993, at an auction, a Penny Blue Stamp was sold for $1.4 million dollars. That makes it one of the world’s most expensive stamps and one of Mauritius most iconic symbols…

Created in small batches, each one with its own personality, Penny Blue rum is matured on the estate and is, by definition, rare and finite. Every batch is unique although there is continuity in overall style to retain the rich, smooth, fruity complexity that makes this single estate Rum a real expression of its Mauritian terroir. Deep amber in colour. The bouquet shows deep and inviting with tropical fruit, vanilla, toffee and sandalwood. Complex with zesty citrus. The palate is luxuriant and creamy textured with vanilla, spice and balanced oak tannins.