Alambique Serrano “Cartier 30”

Alambique Serrano Cartier 30 is an unaged rum and traditional aguardiente produced in Santa Maria Tlalixtac, Oaxaca. Made from 100% organic Java sugarcane grown on the region’s steep slopes at elevations reaching 4,000 feet above sea level, it is a remarkably expressive spirit with a strong sense of place.

Unlike aged rum, Cartier 30 is distilled directly from fresh sugarcane juice. The Krassel family naturally ferments the cane before distilling it in their custom-built still, originally designed by Max Krassel, who immigrated to Mexico from Germany in the 1930s. The name Cartier 30 refers to the historic Cartier alcohol scale. A reading of 30 corresponds to approximately 70% ABV and was traditionally the preferred strength in the local community, where the aguardiente was mixed with a little fresh cane juice and enjoyed as a shot.

On the nose, the spirit is intensely aromatic, with fresh sugarcane and grassy notes immediately apparent. Its high strength brings a powerful, raw character, while subtle briny and funky nuances add complexity. On the palate, Cartier 30 is bold and exceptionally concentrated. Fresh cane flavours are joined by grassy, vegetal, earthy, and briny notes. Its unaged character keeps the profile vibrant and direct, while the high alcohol strength creates a powerful warming sensation.

Bottled at 60.9% ABV, Cartier 30 contains no added sugar or water. The result is a pure expression of the cane, fermentation, and distinctive Krassel distillation process. This is a spirit for enthusiasts who appreciate high-strength, unaged rum and traditional aguardiente. It can be enjoyed in the traditional Oaxacan style, carefully diluted with fresh cane juice, or explored in small pours to appreciate its intense character.

Alambique Serrano Cartier 30 is ideal for adventurous rum drinkers seeking an authentic, powerful, and highly distinctive expression from Oaxaca.