Spirit of Haiti releases fifth clairin expression

Drinks brand Spirit of Haiti has added a new expression to its range of single etate clairins.

Clairin Sonson originates from Cabaret, a village in the Arcahaie district north-west of the capital Port-au-Prince. It is distilled by Stephan Kalil Saoud, a third-generation producer, and uses the mineral Madame Meuze sugar cane variety, which is growing alongside fruit crops in 25 acres of land surrounding the distillery. 

Once harvested, it is pressed and reduced to syrup, then naturally fermented with wild yeast. Distillation is carried out in a pot still over an open fire, and the resulting clairin is bottled at 53.2% ABV. 

Clairin is a traditional Haitian sugar cane-based spirit. It is estimated that there are more than 500 distilleries - mostly small, hyperlocal producers - making clairin in the country. Each spirit is considered to be an authentic expression of Haitian terroir and production follows centuries-old traditions and techniques.

The new Spirit of Haiti expression, Clairin Sonson, will be distributed in the UK exclusively by Speciality Brands and will be available in selected on and off-trade outlets from April.

Chris Seale, managing director of Speciality Brands, said: "Since its launch, the Spirit of Haiti Clairin range has built a strong following amongst rum fans who love its authentic stories and unique tasting experience. Each clairin uses centuries-old, artisanal techniques that truly bring to life the richness of the Haitian terroir.

"With the interest in premium white rums growing in the UK, it's good timing to introduce Clairin Sonson to British drinkers and take them on a new cane spirit journey."

27 April 2021 - Bethany Whymark