I love Jamaica Inn. Have you ever been to the One and Only Ocean Club is Nassau? It's an easy flight.

I might have said that if you liked L'Esplanade, consider the sister property, Le Petit Hotel. I know the hotel has re-opened, but I doubt that Grand Case is what you remember and love. I'm personally waiting a few years to go back.

I'm a Nisbet Plantation devotee myself, and if I'm not heading there, I go to the Bahamas Out Islands. There, you'll find the boutique resorts you seem to prefer, but the islands are rustic (which to me means "ripe for exploration" -- i.e. drive to find a beach I don't have to share with anyone). Look at Cape Santa Maria on Long Island. If you want more of "town" experience, look at Hopetown Harbour Lodge on Elbow Cay in the Abacos -- beach on one side, the charming village of Hopetown on the other. Explore by golf cart or powerboat. Early December weather is still warm enough to enjoy.