Barceló. It’s aged in American white oak barrels for up to 10 years and then finished in ex-bourbon barrels. “It’s smooth, with notes of caramel and vanilla and a hint of tropical fruit,” says Mesa. “The palate is balanced and complex, making it a great sipping rum for both newcomers and seasoned rum enthusiasts.”
Next up is the Foursquare Zinfandel Cask Blend from Barbados, recommended by Rioux. The rum is a blend of pot and column still distillates that are aged for 11 years in ex-bourbon barrels and then transferred to Zinfandel casks for an additional 18 months. “This is a great example of a sipping rum that shows off the diversity of the category. It’s full of jammy fruits, spice, and a light tannin structure from the wine casks,” says Rioux.
Another standout is the Diplomático Planas from Venezuela, recommended by Rolón. This white rum is distilled from molasses and aged for six years in ex-bourbon barrels before being charcoal filtered to remove the color. “It’s a unique sipping rum with notes of coconut, vanilla, and a touch of citrus. It’s smooth and easy to drink on its own,” says Rolón.
For those looking for a more traditional sipping rum, Mesa suggests the El Tesoro Paradiso from Mexico. This extra añejo tequila is aged for five years in ex-bourbon barrels and finished in French cognac barrels. “It’s rich and complex, with notes of caramel, dark chocolate, and dried fruit. It’s perfect for sipping neat or on the rocks,” says Mesa.
In conclusion, rum is a versatile and complex spirit that deserves a place in every liquor cabinet. Whether you prefer a light and fruity rum or a bold and funky expression, there is a sipping rum out there for everyone. So, next time you’re in the mood for a nightcap, consider reaching for a bottle of rum and savoring the flavors and aromas that this spirit has to offer. When it comes to rum, there are a plethora of options available to choose from. Each rum has its own unique characteristics and flavor profiles that cater to different palates. In this article, we will explore three distinct rums that have garnered praise for their exceptional qualities.
First up, we have the Worthy Park Single Estate Reserve. This single-estate rum is distilled entirely in copper pot stills, giving it a heavy body that sets it apart from other rums. Each step in the distillation process is carefully measured and evaluated to ensure consistency and quality. Renowned rum expert, Mesa, notes that this rum boasts flavors of light vanilla and tropical fruits, with a buttery and creamy texture. This rum is a true testament to the craftsmanship and dedication that goes into creating a premium spirit.
Next, we have the Planteray Sealander, a unique rum that combines rums from three different islands for a second maturation before blending them together. This process results in a rum that satisfies both experienced rum drinkers and newcomers to the category. Daniel Johnson, beverage director of Ma Der Lao Kitchen and Bar Sen in Oklahoma City, praises the balanced flavors of this rum. The rum from Barbados contributes a rich, round body, while the rum from Fiji adds a lighter fruit component. The spirit from Mauritius introduces intriguing green, grassy, and almost tarragon/anise flavors, making this rum a true standout in the world of spirits.
Last but not least, we have the El Dorado 15 Year rum, a favorite among rum enthusiasts for its smoothness and complexity. Joao Diniz, head bartender at Moon in Houston, lauds this rum for its balance of bold flavors and alcohol content. The El Dorado 15-year rum is known for its heavy brown sugar, vanilla, and coffee notes that create a rich and indulgent sipping experience. This rum is a go-to choice for those looking for a high-quality spirit that can be enjoyed on its own.
In conclusion, these three rums offer a glimpse into the diverse and dynamic world of rum. Whether you prefer a heavy-bodied rum with tropical fruit notes, a balanced blend of flavors from different islands, or a smooth and complex sipping experience, there is a rum out there for everyone. Cheers to exploring the world of rum and discovering your new favorite spirit.
