Planteray Rum is rewriting the rules of rum production with the release of Hogo Monsta, a spirit designed for the adventurous palate. This isn’t your typical aged rum; it’s a throwback to a forgotten tradition and, frankly, one of the most concentrated rums ever commercially available.
What Makes Hogo Monsta Special?
Hogo Monsta is defined by its extraordinary ester content – a staggering 2,029 grams per hectoliter. This intense concentration is a deliberate homage to the early days of rum production, where rums were created as flavor concentrates to circumvent import taxes. The spirit, now meticulously crafted, delivers a flavor profile that’s both intensely complex and undeniably vibrant. Fast forward to today, and Planteray has resurrected this legacy, offering a truly exceptional experience.
The rum’s signature characteristics originate from a dual maturation process. Initially aged for a few months in ex-bourbon barrels, followed by six months in Ferrand Cognac casks, this combination yields a layered and powerfully aromatic spirit. Expect notes of overripe banana, pineapple, and mango, interwoven with the complexities of varnish, brine, spice, and a pronounced tropical funk. This isn’t a spirit for the faint of heart – it demands attention.
Availability and Pricing
Due to the sheer intensity of Hogo Monsta, production is limited to just 5,000 bottles. These bottles, measuring a modest 200 milliliters, are available worldwide, with a current distribution network spanning the U.S., UK, France, Barbados, Slovakia, Czech Republic, Belgium, and Germany. The retail price sits at $55, which, given the rarity and unique characteristics, is a premium investment for discerning rum enthusiasts.
Expert Tips
Planteray’s founder and master blender, Alexandre Gabriel, offers a blunt but insightful recommendation: “Don’t buy this unless you know what it is!” He suggests employing simple applications – perhaps paired with ginger beer, or experimenting with just a spoonful within cocktails. Bartenders are already discovering its transformative capabilities, capable of elevating even the most ordinary cocktail to an entirely new dimension.
Key Facts
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ABV:
56.6%
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Maturation:
A few months in ex-bourbon barrels followed by 6 months in Ferrand Cognac casks
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Availability:
Limited to 5,000 bottles (U.S., UK, France, Barbados, Slovakia, Czech Republic, Belgium, Germany)
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MSRP:
$55
