Rum & Cachaca

• • 85

  2011 Compagnie des Indes (Epris Distillery) 8 Year Old Single Cask Cask Strength Brazil Rum (700ml)

  BRAZIL

  $179. 99

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  $2159.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 53.2%

  Distilled in a multi-column still at the Epris Distillery, this blend of molasses and cane juice-based rums was summed up by Compagnie des Indes as "sweet and savoury with notes of BBQ sauce & Xérès vinegar." Zero sugar has been added. From a 30ml sample, the aromas need coaxing to get beyond basic scents like balsa wood and hints of molasses. On the palate, the sugars are matched by tingling spices, closing acidic, lean with nipping alcohol. Some sweetness recovers late in the aftertaste, but the lack of definition makes this odd-ball rum feel more like an oak-charged, cask strength Armagnac. 53.2% Alc./vol. Non-chill filtered. 293 bottles produced.

  Notes from the bottlers... Nose: rich and powerful, with notes of toffee, fudge and macadamia nuts with strong whiffs of molasses. Mouth: first a salty flavour (salted butter caramel), then grilled meat and dark chocolate. Finish: a sweet bitterness remains all along the tasting right until the end.

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• • 90

  2016 Compagnie des Indes (T.D.L. Distillery) 8 Year Old Single Cask Trinidad Rum (700ml)

  TRINIDAD

  $179. 99

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  $2159.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 43%

  Aligned to the island style, best represented by Angostura, but made by Trinidad Distillers Limited. Cola, touches of honeycomb, vanilla and a hint of sarsaparilla on the nose. Leans towards the lighter side; pure and just a little zesty, fading grassy, pleasantly dry, warming. Lends itself to refreshing cocktails. 43% Alc./Vol. 424 bottles. Tasted from a 30ml sample.

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• • 94

  2013 Compagnie des Indes (D.D.L. Distillery) 9 Year Old Single Cask Cask Strength Guyana Rum (700ml)

  GUYANA

  $199. 99

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  $2399.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 57.6%

  Sourced from the Diamond Distillery and distilled in the legendary Port Mourant wooden pot still. The expressive nose features heady notes of overripe tropical fruits, mango and papaya, becoming creamier after air contact. Quirky in its combination of banana bread, mango chutney, Indian spices and drying oak, lingering with fresh fruit cake, unaged grappa and warm, bittersweet sensations. An agricole-like wildness to this. Ticks many boxes if highly distinctive, all-natural Caribbean rum is your thing. 57.6% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered. 290 bottles produced. Tasted from a 30ml sample.

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• • 91

  2011 Compagnie des Indes (Darsa Distillery) 12 Year Old Single Cask Guatemala Rum (700ml)

  GUATEMALA

  $179. 99

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  $2159.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 43%

  Distilled from molasses in 2011 at Darsa Distillery (Destiladora de Alcoholes y Rones Sociedad Anónima). A shy nose is compensated by good power and balance on the palate; Plantain and raw sugar flavours, a grassy freshness and suggestions of iced coffee and milk chocolate through the aftertaste. Besides its naturalness and effortless delivery, this has a concentration punching above its ABV. 352 bottles produced. 43%.Alc./Vol. Tasted from a 30ml sample.

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• • 90

  2010 Compagnie des Indes (Secret Distillery) 10 Year Old Single Cask Fiji Rum (700ml)

  FIJI

  $159. 99

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  $1919.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 44%

  In the mainstream of molasses-based column-distilled styles; light to medium weight, almost malt-whisky-like in its aromas of ripe banana and dried fruits extending to the palate with subtle, semi-sweet flavours of dried pineapple, guava and banana; Hints of elderflower and cut grass bring balance before baking spices and banana peel rebound. Easy drinking. 44% Alc./vol. 409 bottles produced. Tasted from a 30ml sample.

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• • 90

  2014 Compagnie des Indes (Secret Distillery) 8 Year Old Single Cask Thailand Rum (700ml)

  $149. 99

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  $1799.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 43%

  Column distilled using local molasses, this bright gold rum offers medium-fresh aromas of banana bread, desiccated coconut, vanilla and chocolate, repeated on the palate in a soft, creamy, light to medium-bodied style evoking ripe cantaloupe and banana. The finish adds the required tannic grip, fresher fruitier notes and gentle spices. A profile that doesn't stand out in any particular way while being eminently drinkable. 392 bottles produced. 43% Alc./Vol. Tasted from a 30ml sample.

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• • 89

  2009 Compagnie des Indes (Secret Distillery) 13 Year Old Single Cask Panama Rum (700ml)

  PANAMA

  $149. 99

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  $1799.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 43%

  A 30ml sample yields atypical rum aromas; Subdued, vaguely vegetal, eaux de vie-like, developing more familiar, though still muted notes of molasses and vanilla after 2-3 minutes of air contact. A light entry follows with soft, medium-dry flavours of dried fruits, aged grappa, shortbread and vanilla with a warming finish that resembles sherried malt whisky. Hard to pin down. A great throw-in at your next blind rum tasting. 429 bottles produced. 43% Alc./Vol.

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• Compagnie des Indes Barbagaya 14 Year Old Rum (700ml)

  $180. 00

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  $2160.00 Dozen

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  ABV: 43%

  A second Compagnie des Indes blend has landed. Barbagaya 14 Year Old is the third edition in the company's small batch series that brings together two great distilleries from Barbados and Guyana. Both components are molasses rums distilled in 2007 but aged separately in their original distilleries (Foursquare and Diamond) for six years. A finishing maturation in France lasted another four years, before the result was blended in a single cask in 2021. 791 bottles are on offer globally. 43% Alc./Vol.

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• 2010 Compagnie des Indes Mauritius (Secret Distillery) 9 Year Old Rum (700ml)

  MAURITIUS

  $169. 99

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  $2039.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 42%

  Mauritian rums are slowly making their way to our shores. This one's from a single cask yielding 455 bottles at 43% Alc./Vol. The distillery is not disclosed.

  Located off the coast of Madagascar, the island of Mauritius is a relative newcomer to the global rum scene. Sugar cane was introduced from Java during the Dutch period (1598-1710), mainly to produce an alcoholic drink. During his service in the 18th century, the French Governor, Bertrand-François Mahé de Labourdonnais, was the first to support the development of the rum industry in Mauritius. From 1810, the country became a British colony and gradually transformed itself into a plantation economy with sugarcane as the primary crop. Later, in 1852, Dr Pierre Charles François Harel saw opportunities to create quality rums on the island. Today, it's home to six distilleries and remains one of the few countries to offer both Traditional and Agricultural style rums, dark, light and spiced, the latter usually infused with the island's abundant local crops of spices and coffee.

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• 2007 Compagnie des Indes Belize (Travellers Distillery) 13 Year Old Cask Strength Rum (700ml)

  BELIZE

  $260. 00

  Bottle

  $3120.00 Dozen

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  ABV: 62.1%

  Located on the eastern coast of Central America, Rum is the national drink in Belize - no surprise, as the country's sugar cane is of the highest standard, representing a considerable volume of exports.The local rum industry is dominated by 'Travellers Liquor' (est. 1953), a distillery based in Belize City. Specializing in molasses based rums and mainly supplying independent bottlers, the company gained its name from the success it achieved in serving travellers along the main route to and from Belize City. This natural strength release from French independent "Compagnie des Indes was drawn from a single cask at natural strength.

  Notes from the bottlers... Nose: Sandalwood, cinnamon, and a symphony of sweet spices. A floral touch of elderflower, the prelude of an intense mouth. Mouth: Powerful with still both the spicy and floral notes. It is a very well- balanced rum, its high abv makes for a contained powerfulness. Finish: Long and expressive, roasted subtle notes of 75% cacao. 62.1% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

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• • 89

  Compagnie des Indes Caraibes Rum (700ml)

  Caribbean,

  $94. 99

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  $1139.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 40%

  Made from rums from British Guyana, Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago, this multi country blend is aged in Bourbon casks for 3 to 5 years in the Caribbean, then imported into Europe to be 'assembled' into a final product. The result is a sweet-scented and slightly fruity rum, light to medium bodied with candied pineapple, poached pear, vanilla and mild cinnamon heat. The finish is nicely balanced, adding a delicate caney freshness. 40% Alc./Vol.

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• • 91

  Compagnie des Indes Latino 5 Year Old Rum (700ml)

  Caribbean,

  $109. 99

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  $1319.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 40%

  The Latino edition is created from a blend of Central American rums, (60% from Guatemala) with a touch of Guyanese rum as well as some from Trinidad and Barbados. The rums were matured in x Bourbon casks for five years. Almost floral with softly spoken aromas of wafer biscuit, custard and light sponge cake. Medium bodied, silky and graceful in the mouth offering flavours of dried mango, banana cake, tea biscuits and a mouthcoating, salivating, creamy-soda-like burst to finish. Moreish. 40% Alc./Vol.

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• • 92

  Compagnie des Indes 5 Year Old Jamaica Rum (700ml) - 43%

  JAMAICA

  $114. 99

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  $1379.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 43%

  Compagnie des Indes is a French bottler, based in Beaune and managed by Florent Beuchet. Rums are selected for their typicity and regional distinction, then brought back to France for maturation. Most are bottled without the addition of caramel colour or sugars. This edition is made from rums sourced from four different Jamaican distilleries and showcases the pot still style representative of the island's best. Some tasters have compared the profile to aged agricole. The aromas evoke elderflower cordial, dried apricot and marzipan in the opening sniffs followed by medium bodied flavours of dried fruits (mango, apricot), banana cake and a delicious creamy-soda and elderflower finish with lingering vanilla sugars. Certainly uniquely styled - and deceptively long. 43% Alc./Vol.

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• • 95

  Dark Matter Spiced Rum (700ml)

  SCOTLAND

  $86. 99

  Bottle

  $1043.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 40%

  Don't buy this if your idea of spiced rum is vanilla, vanilla, vanilla. The creators of Dark Matter use fresh ginger, fresh green peppercorn, long pepper and allspice berries, all hand prepared, and it shows. The rum is only very young, so it doesn't stand out in the flavour profile, but the spices are leaping out of the glass.

  Tasting note: Dull copper penny colour shows considerable viscosity. Up front with dense aromas of cinnamon, smoky cardamom, clove, liquorice root and gingery warmth. Follows through with a super silky, creamy, sweet burst of clove, cinnamon, cardamom and vanilla; develops momentum with warming cinnamon and ginger heat. Finishes with sustained intensity. A robust, in-your-face example that's not ashamed to deliver what the label says. 40% Alc./Vol.

  Other reviews... Gold Medal. The Spirits Business Awards 2016

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• Stone Pine Distillery Dead Man's Gold Spiced Rum (700ml)

  New South Wales, AUSTRALIA

  $79. 99

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  $959.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 40%

  A marriage of barrel aged rum with vanilla and macadamia nut. The label celebrates Bathurst's Bicentenary, and is inspired by infamous bushrangers, The Ribbon Gang. Ten of the gang were hung in 1830 in Bathurst's first public hanging. 40% Alc./Vol.

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• • 92

  Dead Reckoning 9 Year Old Bourbon Cask Single Blended Australian Rum (700ml)

  Queensland, AUSTRALIA

  $149. 99

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  $1799.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 55%

  Aged for four years in tropical North Queensland before being sold on to a European rum broker where it has enjoyed a further five years of continental ageing. It was then chosen by Australian, Justin Boseley to be bottled as part of his Dead Reckoning line up. The aromas open slight and savoury until dried pineapple, hints of banana bread, cinnamon and light molasses pick up momentum in an appealing way. Starts grassy, natural; the mid palate quickly develops intensity and heat including flavours of butter menthol cough lozenges, vanilla, dried mango and pistachios. Finishes with a kick of alcohol, pleasantly bittersweet, medium-long and relatively elegant for all the mid palate power. Some minor rough edges, but overall feels confident, natural and unsweetened. 55% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered. 430 bottles produced.

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• • 94

  Dead Reckoning 10 Year Old Single Blended South Pacific Rum (700ml)

  FIJI

  $130. 00

  Bottle

  $1560.00 Dozen

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  ABV: 47%

  A departure from Dead Reckoning's 20 year old Bourbon cask release is this 20% pot and 80% column still blend, also entirely tropically aged with an Angel’s Share of 50%. Maturation took place in Fiji in a 40 year old barrel which previously held Muscat wine supplied by Charles Sturt Winery in New South Wales. Papaya, grilled pineapple, plantain and dried mango on the nose follow in a mouth filling attack that unfolds with baking spices, black currants and hints of crushed papaya seeds. There are also secondary notes of molasses, fruity dark chocolate and liquorice bullets, rounded off by pleasing spirit heat and moderate astringency. This punchy, tropical blend has a Jamaican swagger that recalls Hampden - though perhaps a slightly less complex, less refined version. Distilled in 1994, 1240 bottles are on offer at 47% Alc./Vol.

  Other reviews... The initial sip is reasonably spicy with a nice hit of oak and some Full-flavoured bourbon-esque spice. This quickly moves back to more of what we got on the nose. Juicy raisins, figs, bruised banana all come in nicely alongside a kind of pine-cone mixed with petrol type note. Which admittedly doesn’t sound all that appetising but works surprisingly well... Anyone delving deeper into the rum world will be aware that not all tasting notes sound as nice as they actually are (honest). As we move into the mid palate I’m noticing notes of dark chocolate and a touch of caramel. This is in addition to the wilder notes and we see some of the fruitiness fade slightly. Post sip as we savour the finish you will notice some of the fruity notes return – raisins and sultanas become prominent again alongside a very nice oaky fade. A touch of all spice and an after taste of coffee give this rum a very interesting and complex ending. I recently reviewed the 20 year old ex-bourbon cask rum from Dead Reckoning. Although this is half its age I must say I have taken just as much enjoyment out of this rum as I did that one. I’m very lucky to have tried both. Again this is highly recommended and with 1240 bottles available you should be able to find a bottle. 4.5 stars - thefatrumpirate.com

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• • 94

  2010 Depaz Rhum Agricole Rum (700ml)

  MARTINIQUE

  $220. 00

  Bottle

  $2640.00 Dozen

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  ABV: 45%

  Depaz agricultural rhums are produced exclusively from super-fresh canes selected for their capacity to provide a rich, fruity aroma. Harvest starts in February when the cane fields are covered in white “feathers” (the cane sugar flowers, known as “flech’kann”, indicating that the plant is perfectly ripe and saturated with sugar). Freshness is fundamental. As one creole expression goes: “the cane should have it’s feet in the fields and it’s head in the mill”. In other words, once cut, the cane should be ground immediately to capture the most expressive juice. That freshness can be preserved even when the rums are oak-aged. This vintage-dated bottling combines eleven carefully selected barrels containing rums from the 2010 harvest. First matured for more than 10 years in American oak, a secondary maturation followed in 350 litre French oak barrels for 18 to 24 months. The rum ends up with a warming overlay of almond paste and mandarin confit aromas and flavours. Perhaps bottled not a month too late, it has a dry, natural feel, good freshness, and an oak-fruit balance that's similar to many Armagnacs. These styles can take a while to open up, so it's recommended served after five or minutes of air contact. 45% Alc./Vol.

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• Depaz Cuvee de la Montagne Pelee Rhum Blanc Agricole Rum (700ml)

  MARTINIQUE

  $109. 99

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  $1319.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 45%

  Depaz's 'Cuvee de la Montagne' was exclusively harvested from cane growing in the volcanic soils on the slopes of Montagne Pele. The fresh-pressed cane juice was fermented for 48 hours, distilled in a copper column still to 70% ABV, then slowly reduced with water over sixty days. Before bottling, it was rested in stainless steal tanks for at least three months. The result is a floral rum with notes of orange blossom, sweet banana and spice.

  Notes from Depaz... NOSE: fruity, floral and complex aroma, with a specific mineral touch. PALATE: the attack is sweet and honeyed, with a very elegant floral flavours. Sugar cane, orange blossom, banana combined with spicy notes of pepper and tobacco follows. 45% Alc./Vol.

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• • 93

  Depaz VSOP Rhum Agricole Rum (700ml)

  MARTINIQUE

  $160. 00

  Bottle

  $1920.00 Dozen

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  ABV: 45%

  Produced at the Depaz Rhum Chateau & Estate on the French West Indies Isle of Martinique this is an exclusively agricole product, the signature ingredient of which is estate-produced blue cane. Considered the costliest and most difficult cane to grow, Depaz Estate claim their blue cane "...delivers the ideal balance of sugars for maximum flavour and character delivering a superb floral nose and a smooth, flavorful and refined character to the rhum. Even within Martinique, very few locations are suited to produce blue cane at the quality level and quantity necessary for developing a luxury rhum". This VSOP is seven years old.

  Tasting note: Deep burnished copper. Medium sweet aromas of raisin cake, vanilla, cinnamon, a little clove. Later, greener notes blow through…white pepper, dried grass. An attractive assemblage of vivacious agricole with sweeter, heavier oak notes. Cough lozenges(?), sprinklings of white pepper, golden syrup and raisin cake through the finish. A little short but very tasty. 45% Alc./vol.

  Previous batch tasted 2013: Bright burnished copper / brass colour. The aroma is unusual for gold rum, being slightly grassy, with hints of unripe banana. Exposure brings sweeter, buttery scents of vanilla to the fore followed by a delicious fruitiness (ripe cantaloupe) leaving an overall impression not unlike aged, oaky Chardonnay, though the aroma is obviously much weightier here. Third pass adds bitter chocolate and caramel into the mix. Exceptional complexity. The unexpectedly dry and light entry delivers a rum that's a cross between blanco agricole and typical aged rum. This is drier and slightly greener than most gold rums, though none the less pleasant for that, with unripe banana, cut grass and beeswax flavours, finishing crisp, lean and vibrantly spicy with moderate length. 92 points

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• • 93

  • Reduced

  Depaz Grande Reserve XO Agricole Rum (700ml)

  MARTINIQUE

  Reduced from $340.00

  $199. 99

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  $2399.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 45%

  Produced at the Depaz Rhum Chateau & Estate on the French West Indies Isle of Martinique this is an exclusively agricole product, the signature ingredient of which is estate-produced blue cane. Considered the costliest and most difficult cane to grow, Depaz Estate claim their blue cane "...delivers the ideal balance of sugars for maximum flavour and character delivering a superb floral nose and a smooth, flavorful and refined character to the rhum. Even within Martinique, very few locations are suited to produce blue cane at the quality level and quantity necessary for developing a luxury rhum".

  Tasting note: Matured for 12 years. Brilliant amber / gold hue. Powerful scents of golden syrup are complexed by secondary notes of nutmeg, cinnamon, palm oil and leather. A bracing spirit carries flavours of cocoa-dusted banana cake with fruit sorbet and marzipan / honey entering late before the grassy characteristics return into the lengthy, drying fade. 50% Alc./Vol.

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• • 86

  Diamond Reserve 151 Overproof White Rum (750ml)

  GUYANA

  $125. 00

  Bottle

  $1500.00 Dozen

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  ABV: 75.5%

  This is the updated label previously referred to as "El Dorado" 151.
  Use with caution and keep away from open flames. It may light up your cocktails, literally. Include in Mai Tais, Rum Runners and punches.

  Tasting note: Crystal clear with a silvery blush. Offers up notes of icing sugar, fairy floss and vanilla bean. A sweet entry is followed by a wild flare of spirit. Repeats the aromas with lip numbing intensity. Prickly mouthfeel, the finish is bittersweet, with more texture than overt flavour. Reserve for the punch bowl or dynamite cocktails. 75.5% Alc./Vol.

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• Diplomatico Planas Rum (700ml)

  VENEZUELA

  $89. 99

  Bottle

  $1079.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 47%

  Taking its name from a valley near the distillery, "Planas" replaces "Diplomatico Blanco", however, the ABV is now 47%. A 50/50 combination of light and heavy rums, the blend is barrel-aged for up to six years followed by charcoal filtration which removes all colour. A fruity and creamy style, try it in a Mojito or Daiquiri. Also recommended for delicate cocktails such as the Rum Martini.

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• Diplomatico Mantuano Rum (700ml)

  VENEZUELA

  $84. 99

  Bottle

  $1019.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 40%

  Mantuano meaning 'nobleman' is the replacement for "Diplomatico Reserva". Molasses based, it's a blend of column & batch kettle rums combined with 40% heavier pot still rums. Aged for up to eight years, maturation employs x-bourbon and x-single malt whisky barrels. Expect a medium bodied and well rounded rum with notes of dried fruits, oak and vanilla. Ideal for flavourful cocktails. 40% Alc./Vol.

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• • 98
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  • 96

  • Nick's Import
  • Reduced

  Diplomatico Ambassador Selection Cask Strength Rum (700ml)

  VENEZUELA

  Reduced from $399.00

  $299. 00

  Bottle

  $3588.00 Dozen

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  ABV: 47%

  This is the peak of the Diplomatico range, as created by Golden Barrel Awards 2011 Master Rum Blender of the Year, Tito Cordero, and comes appropriately packaged in a stylish tapered bottle with a heavy set base and a cork inset into a weighty high quality metal stopper. Ambassador is matured in x-bourbon barrels before finishing for a couple of years in x-Pedro Ximenez (sweet Sherry) casks. Clearly, this is where things get serious for Cordero. It is a full throttle, 100% pot still rendition without filtration or compromise that stands as a benchmark in its category. Aged for a minimum of 12 years, the saturated, burnished mahogany colour leaves fat, glass-staining legs. Sensuous, mildly prickly aromas open with choc fudge, mocha, brandy cream and fruit cake. Cocoa and mocha accentuate with aeration, with the spicy fruit cake notes returning. From start to finish, the palate is a masterpiece of flavour choreography, beginning light, soft and gently spicy, slowly building in concentration, unfolding pulsing spices, intense dried fruits (raisin, date) and liquorice strap while fine-tuned acidity provides razor’s edge balance and a sense of elegance. It finishes clean, fresh and dry with a molasses aftertaste followed by a liquorice strap fade that reverberates over twenty minutes, however don’t be surprised if you’re still tasting this after an hour. It stands comfortably alongside the top two or three rums we’ve been fortunate enough to experience. Bravo! 47% Alc./Vol. (2011 batch tasted).

  Other reviews... Rich and concentrated, this is a blend of rums aged up to 12 years, then aged an additional two years in former PX Sherry casks. The end result is luxurious, thick in caramel, toffee and gingerbread flavors that finish long and elegant, with clove, allspice, dry cocoa, leather and orange peel accents. It sips beautifully. 96 points - wineenthusiast.com

  5+ stars - diffordsguide.com

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• • 95
  • 

  • Nick's Import
  • Reduced

  Diplomatico Reserva Exclusiva Rum (700ml)

  VENEZUELA

  Reduced from $109.99

  $89. 99

  Bottle

  $1079.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 40%

  If you haven't been inspired to try the aged rums of the Caribbean then you’ve got a lot to look forward to. This applies not only to those who’ve never moved beyond Bundaberg and Coke since high school, but more so to those who are serious about wine, whisky and brandy - in short, those of us who are passionate about ‘flavour’. Quality Caribbean rum has as many permutations of aromas, tastes, textures and strengths as any group of wines or spirits. The rum market in Australia has increased exponentially and the overall quality is superb. We now have access to many small and large producers who are vying for attention and the very reasonable prices mean rum is not just a passing fad.

  Aside from the familiar Caribbean island groups, more and more people are becoming aware of a ‘mainland’ rum tradition. Think Nicaragua, Gautemala, Panama or Venezuela. The latter, already famous as the spiritual home of the rum based medicinal bitters, Angostura, is now finding its rums eclipsing that legacy. The country has a number of highly regarded offerings, but those from the Distilerias Unidas in La Miel on the northern slopes of the Andes lift the bar highest.
  Their Diplomatico label is the international reference.

  We prefer to let what’s inside the bottle do the talking, but it is impossible to overlook this venture’s remarkable accumulation of twenty plus international awards since 2007 (54 medals in contests worldwide), including the SIP Awards, San Francisco World Spirits Competition, Miami Rum XP, Monde Selection and other big guns. Even if the show circuit is irrelevant to you, a different kind of achievement came in October 2011 when the company’s Maestro, Tito Cordero, was honoured at the Golden Rum Barrels Awards as the World’s Best Master Blender. He was the first Venezuelan to receive the award. Given that so much depends on how the distiller and blender create their product, this was the rum world's supreme commendation of Cordero's skill and outright quality fanaticism.

  A reinvigorated project that stemmed from an early Seagrams investment in the 1950s, passed on to Diageo, and is now in the custody of the Ballesteros family, the distillery is adjacent to the Hacienda Saruro, where much of the sugar cane is grown. Average daytime temperatures of 30-31C drop by 6-7C at night, a differential which when coupled with high humidity benefits cane growth: it concentrates the sugars and favours the ageing process. Different varieties are grown to make sugar honey and molasses. Molasses is preferred for the light rums, sugar cane honey for the heavy. While many producers are struggling to get molasses with a sugar content above 45%, Diplomatico are ahead of the pack before they even begin. Venezuela regularly achieves upwards of 60%. 

  Not unlike other distilleries, here pot stills are for richness and weight, column stills for adding freshness and elegance. Between the two are batch kettles that carry out secondary distillations of semi-heavy rums. Varying proportions of each create a hierarchy of styles. Barrel regimes vary, including ex-bourbon with some re-filled single malt whisky casks. Sherry casks are now being experimented with to great effect, as the 2000 Vintage release bears testimony. Finishing departs from the mainstream, as most Diplomatico rums are given only a delicate filtration prior to bottling - gentle enough to maintain fatty acids and maximum mouthfeel - then filtered using 3 micron-thick filter pads. It is minimal interference by world standards, Cordero considering it a formality to ensure the rums retain their clarity and brilliance when exported to cooler climates.

  Diplomatico's flagship cuvee is aged for up to twelve years and typically blended from around 80% pot still rums; the remaining 20% are lighter styles from column stills. Cordero mixes a little cane sugar prior to blending which is another reason why the flavour seems amplified compared to some others in the stable. Stylistically this edges Ron Zacapa 23 for satisfaction and sheer saturation and is the one that many of our customers measure other rums by. Those whose taste preferences tend towards the savory may misunderstand what is an unashamedly dessert / quasi- liqueur styled effort that falls into a sub-category of its own. Almost as decadent as a rum can get without cloying the mouth and falling out of balance - there are more complex rums around, but not near this price, nor do they have the same uncanny ability to incite superlatives. The packaging depicts Don Juancho Nieto Melendez, who was a noted rum enthusiast in the town close to the distillery. It's reported that, being something of a globe trotter, over many years "...he amassed a large collection of rums which he took great pleasure in offering his guests at the lavish dinner parties he held at his house."

  Tasting note: Brilliant copper with a gold hue. Heady and decadent scents of creme caramel, fresh coffee, chocolate fudge, vanilla and spice. A silky, creamy mouthfeel yields a plush array of dried fruits, raisins and coffee-caramel, counterpointed by a gently warming spirit heat. Perfect balance, seamless integration. Very long, mouth coating aftertaste of vanilla and liquorice strap with a subtle dark chocolate finale. Avoids the too sweet trap. A stunning rum that will instantly convert many a Muscat or PX Sherry drinker. This remains one of the most re-purchased spirits on our shelves. 40% Alc./Vol.

  Other reviews... Gold Medal: Ministry of Rum Tasting Competition, New Orleans

  Gold Medal, Best in Category: International Cane Spirits Festival, Florida
  • Silver Medal: Monde Selection, Brussels
  • Silver Medal: Concours Mondiale, Brussels
  • Silver Medal: San Francisco World Spirits Competition
  • Gold Medal: The Rum Experience, London

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• • 91

  Doorly's 5 Year Old Barbados Rum (700ml)

  BARBADOS

  $89. 99

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  ABV: 40%

  The bouquet is semi-sweet with hints of dried grass among the raisins, rum-balls and fruity dark chocolate notes. Silky on entry, leading into an easy-drinking, medium-bodied rum hinting at dried mango, semi-ripe pineapple, light molasses and fruit cake. Ups the intensity in a vibrant, spicy, characterful finish, the sweet fruity notes re-bounding. Bottled without added sugar or flavourings. 40% Alc./Vol

  Other reviews... I think Doorly’s is the most famous brand by Foursquare Distillery, and I believe it’s a blend of pot still and column rums. I had liked their Doorly’s XO a lot a few years back (WF 85). Colour: gold. Nose: vanilla and raisins plus Swiss milk chocolate and notes of cane juice at first nosing, then deeper, albeit tiny notes of earth and leaves. Oranges coming out after just two minutes, while the whole remains rather ‘easy’ and even a notch light. It’s a gentleman. Mouth: very good, bright, with oranges and cane juice, you’d almost think this is a readymade dry cocktail at high strength. Sips very well, even if it’s not a very complex rum. A wee touch of coconut – but can you say ‘wee’ about rum? Finish: medium, clean, cane-y. A little tobacco and more oranges in the aftertaste, as well as mangos. Comments: feels natural. Loved the easy fresh fruits in it, now I think it’s much less ‘phenolic’ than the XO. 80 points - whiskyfun.com

  ...When compared to the likes of the similarly priced Appleton V/X or Chairmans Reserve, it is a lot more refined and less edgy. In terms of mellowness it reminds me more of Appleton Reserve 8.  ...It’s not the same taste wise but in terms of heat and spice. It’s pretty sophisticated. I’d say it has a lot more going on than the English Harbour 5 year old, for example.  It is certainly a step up from Mount Gay Eclipse and even Cockspur Fine Rum... This is a serious contender for best rum in its price bracket.  It really is a great introduction to Bajan style rums. In fact its a good introduction to “real” rum in general. 4 stars - thefatrumpirate.com

  ...I tried the 5yo after the 8yo and expected a younger (obvious) harsher rum but it is actually easier and sweeter (for a 100% dry rum) than the 8yo. Less complex, less oaky, less sophisticated but also fruitier and more sweet notes make the 5yo a really pleasant, very affordable enjoyable sipper. On the nose it is very inviting with some vanilla, a touch of smokey oak, sweet oranges and some alcohol. On the palate the orange and vanilla combine to a fruity fudge-like sweetness (again, it is really a dry rum) with a pinch of pepper. The oak is much more in the background than with the 8 yo Doorly's. Very well balanced and nothing out of tune. Lovely little rum and at this pricepoint very hard to beat. Definitely not my last bottle! - rumratings.com

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• Doorly's 14 Year Old Rum (700ml)

  BARBADOS

  $150. 00

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  $1800.00 Dozen

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  ABV: 48%

  Doorly's rums are made at the Foursquare Distillery, one of Barbados' oldest trading companies. Currently owned and operated by the 4th generation of the Seale family, Richard Seale remains the Master Distiller & blender. The distillery is situated in the south eastern quarter of the island in St. Phillip and built on the site of a former sugar factory dating back to the 1650s. This blend of pot and column still rums was aged in ex-bourbon casks, with a smaller portion matured in ex-Madeira casks. While it's not quite cask strength, at 48% it definitely promises more oomph than the entry level Doorly’s. No sugar or other sweeteners are added, which will also please purists.

  Other reviews... The mid palate shows more of the Madeira influence. Notes of red wine and blackberries mingle alongside dark chocolate and some faint notes of marmalade. Finish wise we are left with a spicy and slightly heated end to the rum – white pepper and lots of ginger and a trace of cinnamon. The finish is very long and the rum lingers for a long time in the mouth. Lots of barrel char like flavour. Further sips seem to temper the more bitter and woody notes. More fruitiness becomes apparent. Once the palate adjusts the rum has a much better balance than the initial sip might lead you to believe. The extra ABV means this is a rum worth sitting down and spending some time with. Doorly’s XO you can almost swig straight from the bottle – you don’t want to do that with this. Sit down with it and appreciate it in small sips... For most other producers this would be the jewel in the crown. There best efforts. for Foursquare it’s just another great rum....The only people who would be disappointed with this rum are the nuggets that think Bumbu or Plantation XO are great Barbados rums. 4 Stars - thefatrumpirate.com

  ...Doorly's is one of Foursquare's brands. Colour: amber. Nose: not the first time that I have the impression that by using molasses and blending column and pot still, they often manage (not saying that was their goal) to create some kind of 'agricole' rum. This one's got the same kind of waxy polishes, slightly salty, almost olive-y touches, the slightly heady floralness, the crème brûlée, the tarte tatin, these slightly 'burnt' touches, this earthiness… Now, yes I know Barbadian rum existed way before the French started to make agricole rum, thanks to Napo and the British navy (or the other way 'round). Mouth: excellent, bold, salty, full of liquorice and smoke, cigars, burnt caramel, varnish and olives, some lavender (sweets), aniseed, caraway and cloves… I'm wondering if you wouldn't achieve some rather similar results if you would let some yellow chartreuse age for a decade or so in active wood. Like, in a proper ex-solera manzanilla butt. Seriously, I find this Doorly's just perfect and, perhaps, a little 'funkier' than the Foursquares. But not too sure about that part… Finish: long, with a little pepper, one olive, some orange juice and some caraway. Comments: I even like the blue parrot on the label. Is that an ara? What would the rum world do without parrots? In any case, this Doorly's was extremely convincing. 89 points - whiskyfun.com

  Great Foursquare rum, intensive, interesting and very balanced. - rumratings.com

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• Doorly's X.O Rum (700ml)

  Saint Philip, BARBADOS

  $109. 99

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  $1319.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 43%

  Doorly's X.O rum is a unique rum from the parish Saint Philip in Barbados. A blend of rums aged six to twelve years, married in seasoned Oloroso sherry casks, the same casks that give several notable Scotch whiskies their deep colour, and dried fruit & nut flavours.

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• • 93

  Dos Maderas 5+3 Year Old Rum (700ml)

  Caribbean,

  $99. 99

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  $1199.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 37.5%

  Matured in Barbados and Guyana, after five years this was sent to Jerez de la Frontera where it was transferred to casks previously used to age the 20 year old sherry, 'Dos Cortados'. The finishing continued for an additional three years - hence the name "5 + 3."

  Tasting note: Dazzling topaz. Enticing scents of honey, maple syrup, sticky date and walnut fudge. Light to medium bodied with an effortless delivery of dates, cocoa and molasses cake flavours followed by hints of dried peel and tea biscuits in a spicy, vivacious finish. Sleek and graceful rum with impeccable sweet / dry balance. 37.5% Alc.Vol.

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• • 91

  Dos Maderas Luxus Rum (700ml)

  SPAIN

  $280. 00

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  $3360.00 Dozen

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  ABV: 40%

  Reportedly produced from rums sourced from both Barbados and Guyana, like its younger brother, Dos Maderas PX, this expression is also double aged: Ten years in the Caribbean followed by another 5 years at Williams & Humbert's facilities in Spain where it's finished in barrels that previously held wine at Don Guido.

  Tasting note: Burnished copper. High pitched marzipan in the opening pass. 3-4 minutes exposure adds cocoa butter, raisin toast, hazelnut and hints of chico lollies. A medium bodied, semi-sweet profile suggesting milk chocolate, caramel fudge, vanilla and raisin cake. Excellent sweet-dry balance. Finishes with late rancio and marzipan in the aftertaste. An elegant sipper in the tradition of lighter-bodied Venezuelan rums. 40% Alc./Vol.

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• 2012 El Dorado High Ester Blend LBI / DHE Cask Strength Guyana Rum (750ml)

  GUYANA

  $299. 00

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  $3588.00 Dozen

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  ABV: 57%

  "Delicious...estery funk with tons of complexity, and then navy strength on top of that makes this Rum an absolute winner." - tastings.com

  2024 marks the first offering in the High Ester Blend Series, combining the La Bonne Intention (LBI) marque from the versatile French Savalle Still with the never-before released Diamond High Ester (DHE) marque from El Dorado's small John Dore Double Retort Copper Pot. Both distilled in 2012 and aged for 11 years in old Bourbon barrels, the ester count is reportedly over 1500g/hl (diffordsguide.com), however it's not certain whether that refers to esters after distillation (i.e.- before maturation) or after years of tropical aging. Regardless, according to more than one review, the results are pretty special, bursting with fruit, funk and floral notes. Bottled at a natural strength of 57% Alc./Vol., no outturn numbers are stated.

  Other reviews... Dark amber color. Aromas and flavors of bananas foster, grilled pineapple dipped in chocolate sauce, baked cherries, and pecan pie with cinnamon with a round, lively, dry medium-to-full body and a warming, gigantic, long finish revealing nuances of chocolate creme brulee, ripe banana and pineapple drenched in caramel sauce and lit on fire, cinnamon and nutmeg with clove and ginger accents, and kola nut. First and foremost, delicious; also estery funk with tons of complexity, and then navy strength on top of that making this Rum an absolute winner. 96 points - tastings.com

  ...There is a lot to be unpacked here and it rewards the patient. The palate is simply strong and very firm, fortunately without any kind of bitchy sharpness. It’s more like a very hot very sweet and very strong black tea. There’s salt, honey, olive oil, brown sugar, salted caramel ice cream, orange peel, sweet soya, and then a repetition of the sweet spices, freshly baked pastries, coffee grounds and unsweetened chocolate…and more of the spices mentioned above.  The rum as a whole presents as somewhat dry, but it all leads to a really long, dry, aromatic that sums up the profile quite nicely, but without introducing any new elements. Well. I must say, I’m happy that this is not a rum which was twisted into some semblance of conformity by some moron’s idea of a formula. It’s quite original, while still hewing to a profile that is recognizably Demerara. To do so was probably the right decision, since, overall, the rum works extremely well. The high ester component  is less assertive than the Jamaicans have led us to expect (that’s not a criticism, just an observation), yet it does well to balance off the more traditional flavours provided by the LBI, which, even back then, always seemed to be somewhat indeterminate... For that strength, that nose, those tastes and the overall quality, there’s nothing here that I don’t like. My suggestion would be to park the high ester expectations, enjoy the complexity of the blend, appreciate the strength, and maybe even drop the coin to get one for yourself. - thelonecaner.com

  Notes from the producers... Aroma: Gusts of figs and start-fruit whiff ahead, trailed by cinnamon and vanilla notes, and balanced by the mellow aromas of toffee and honey, with hints of banana undertones. Taste: the brief introduction of orange peel is overlayed with rich spicy notes in the pallet, prominently vanilla with cinnamon. Clove, dark chocolate, and slightly burner caramel hit the mid-palate delicately, before a smooth transition to honey that softens the leathery, spicy finish. A rum to be sipped and savoured for its delicateness as much as its deep impact, lush minerality and dry finish.

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• El Dorado 25 Year Old Demerara Rum (750ml)

  GUYANA

  $999. 00

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  $11988.00 Dozen

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  ABV: 43%

  This new iteration of El Dorado's vernerable 25 year old comes in an upgraded presentation box as well as bottled at a slightly higher ABV than the previous 40% release(s). Originally created to mark the turn of the millennium, it possesses a character to challenge the oldest cognacs. 43% Alc./Vol.

  Other reviews... [40% ABV bottling tasted] "Of course a demerara style rum of this age is going to be heavy and rich. However, there's an impressive finesse to it. Dark, roasty chocolate, molasses, brown sugar, caramel and espresso are cut with earthy walnut and bitter, smoky tobacco. This possesses more spice than the other expressions -with sprinklings of cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice and clove. If you're lucky enough to sip this, you're definitely doing something right in your life." 96 points - distiller.com

  "Well over 800 aged dark rums enjoyed and El Dorado 25 year is easily on my Top 10 list." [1986 release tasted] - rumratings.com

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• • 92

  El Dorado 12 Year Old Rum (700ml)

  GUYANA

  $119. 99

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  $1439.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 40%

  "...as a general all rounder for a lower price, this one is hard to beat". - the lonecaner.com

  A blend of rums from the original Wooden Enmore Coffey still, the original metal Diamond Coffey still, as well as from the Port Mourant Double Wooden Pot Still. Bright burnished copper colour. Opens with rich aromas of roasted nuts, vanilla bean, cafe creme and raw sugar. A creamy entry is followed by a plush, intense, sticky date, creme caramel extravaganza with lively spices adding depth and vibrancy. Creamy vanilla, liquorice bullet finale. Concludes satisfying, warming, long. Luxe mixing rum at a budget price. 40% Alc./Vol.

  Other reviews... Having written all the above, what would I recommend? Truth to tell, I’d use this as a high end mixer for sure, and if looking for a premium sipper, just go up to the 15, or blow a hundred for the 21.  But as a general all rounder for a lower price, this one is hard to beat – it deserves a place on your shelf for all those visitors to your rooms or houses or apartments who want to try something a bit richer than Bacardi, Appleton V/X, Lamb’s or Mount Gay (those standard staples of the young), but don’t want to bust the bank doing it. - thelonecaner.com

  Medium depth of gold. Super attractive nose packed with wonderful aromas of Demerara sugar, honey, toffee, raisin and sultanas. Wonderful balance of rich, ripe flavours and sweetness with rich spice and firm frame. After all the sweet characters there is a delightful, dry finish. Beautifully elegant rum. Silver (Best in Class) - International Wine & Spirit Competition.

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• El Dorado 3 Year Old White Rum (700ml)

  GUYANA

  $79. 99

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  $959.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 40%

  A satisfying mixing rum, twice filtered through natural charcoal for clarity and purity, then aged for at least 3 years in 45 gallon ex-bourbon oak casks. Ideal for all cocktails – especially Caribbean and South American styles. 40% Alc./Vol.

  Other reviews... 93 points - Exceptional - The Beverage Tasting Institute of Chicago.

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• • 92

  El Dorado 8 Year Old Rum (700ml)

  GUYANA

  $99. 99

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  $1199.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 40%

  El Dorado 8 Year Old - a product of the worlds oldest and most revered rum stills.

  Sugar was first produced in Guyana in 1658. By 1670 every sugar factory had a small Rum Still attached to it. This was the origin of Demerara, and Demerara Rums. Over a period of time there were steep fluctuation in prices that resulted in the closure of some sugar estates and consolidation of others. Today the associated stills have rationalised into one distillery - Demerara Distillers Limited, the makers of El Dorado. In 1740 Admiral Vernon formalized the rum ration for the Navy, with the rum composed of 82% Demerara and 18% other Caribbean Rums. The Port Mourant double wooden pot still (built in 1732) became the favoured source of Demerera Rum for the British Pursers. Before entering into battle the rations (tots) were doubled and British Navy men, steeled by the liquid courage tore into the enemy. Rum, and the classic stills that produced it, helped make Britain the supreme power at sea, forging an empire and the classic era for this great spirit.

  El Dorado 8 Year Old is a blend of Enmore (built in 1880, the world’s oldest and only wooden, column Coffey still), Port Mourant and the modern Diamond (steel column) stills. It is aged a minimum of 8 years in ex-Bourbon casks.

  Tasting notes: The deep brassy gold colour is flawless and bright. Offers up an attractive, mildly fruity bouquet including scents of dried pineapple and bounty bar. Raisins and dates come to the fore after several minutes in the glass. The aromas are reflected on the palate which is creamy with semi sweet, juicy sultana / date / fruit cake flavours. Concludes balanced, creamy-yet-fresh with mocha and vanilla custard tailing off into a gently spicy fade. Utterly delicious. 40% Alc./Vol.

  

   Click here to learn more about Rum.
  

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• • 96

  El Dorado 15 Year Old Rum (700ml)

  GUYANA

  $129. 99

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  $1559.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 43%

  Wow! No wonder this was rated the best rum in the world at the International Wine and Spirit Competition four years running: A superb expression. Easily one of the very best rum buys on our shelves.

  El Dorado's somewhat quaint, maritime label belies what is a very sophisticated wood-aged spirit. A go-to rum for anyone in the know, this extra-aged blend which is at least 15 years old, (though some components are much older) delivers the kind of class and complexity you'd expect to pay much, much more for. The distillery combines the most up-to-date equipment with a wealth of traditional expertise, including old-style Demerara pot stills and patent rum and alcohol stills. The last fully operating rectangular wooden Coffey still in the Western world continues to be used for the production of the company's finest spirits. This is certainly one. Serve it to friends who haven't experienced 'good rum.' It sets a high bar and rarely fails to please.

  Tasting note: Very deep copper penny colour. Momentary varnish blows off to reveal a stunning amalgam of dried banana and baking spice that's sweet yet fresh; brief exposure adds complexing notes of mango tart, pistachio nut, raisin cake and molasses. Immediately impresses with a superb, plush, silky entry and succulent flavours of grilled mango, moist banana cake and fresh molasses. Excellent sweet / dry balance. Aftertaste resonates with caramel / sticky date pudding, dilute golden syrup and late liquorice bullets in the fade. Super long. A salivating and utterly luxurious dark rum. [43% Alc./Vol. batch tasted]

  Other reviews... Attractive, rich copper-amber hue. A complex nose of confectioner's sugar, banana, cedar, and iodine. A silky entry leads to a moderately full-bodied palate of vibrant-yet-refined dry caramel and grilled tropical fruit flavors braced by warm alcohol and firm, smooth oak spice. Somewhat Scotch-like, with subtle peaty overtones. Beautifully proportioned and designed for long contemplative sipping. Winner of "Best Spirit of 2001" Award. International Review of Spirits Award: Platinum Medal 96 points (Superlative) - tastings.com

  ...ups the age another three years, creating a spirit even darker in color and richer in flavor. Wood comes through stronger on this one, with mint and herb fading into the background. Again it’s the brown sugar body that impresses deeply, with a rich mouthfeel that makes this one easy to sip. The only false note is a touch of harshness on the palate as it first hits the tongue, but the finish is extremely smooth. - drinkhacker.com

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• • 95

  El Dorado Special Reserve 21 Year Old Rum (700ml)

  GUYANA

  $230. 00

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  $2760.00 Dozen

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  ABV: 43%

  Delivers a kind of finesse that's almost unmatched in the rum pantheon.
  First class.

  The El Dorado rums are created from a combination of eight stills, some of which are the world's oldest in operation. Their different construction and size means each yields different distillates that allow for a maximum range of styles. The 21 year old is produced in three: the Enmore wooden Coffey still, the Versailles single wooden pot still and the Albion Savalle still with an emphasis on the latter. This original, four-column, metal French beauty was inherited from the 18th century Uitvlught Estate on the west coast of Demerara county. The rums it produces are characterised by a pronounced sweet, sugar cane nose combined with a dry medium-bodied flavour. The result is an alternative to the uber-exuberance of the 15 Year Old in which the Port Mourant contributes most. This is no powerhouse, rather you get serious complexity, persistence and a kind of finesse that's almost unmatched in the rum pantheon. Described as “monumental" and "one of the world’s greatest rum drinking experiences” by the Beverage Tasting Institute of Chicago, it's for the enthusiast who has the patience to appreciate it.

  Tasting note:[40% Alc./Vol. batch tasted] A blend of select aged rums between 21 -25 years old. Deep topaz / polished mahogany colour shows moderate viscosity. Drier styled aromas open mildly varnishy, developing with raisin slice, dates, banana cake, cinnamon, raw sugar and apricot brandy over 5-10 minutes; the sweeter notes are countered by woody, resiny aromas suggesting cigar box, cane and wax polish. Final pass accents toffee, rock lollies and heightens the dried fruit notes. Entry is light, dry, woody, unfolding with understated elegance, coating the mouth with a film of banana cake, dates, light molasses, caramel and vanilla. Builds in slow motion, peaking with a superb crescendo of sugars and zero burn, closing with liquorice allsorts and residual molasses through the aftertaste. Resonates and rebounds in the mouth over several minutes, the wood contributing almost as much as the spirit, the whole coming together in a way that sets it apart from almost any other rum. If you hurry this, frankly you'll be wasting your money. Demands extended breathing to reveal its best. One to savour.

  Gold - Golden - 2017 International Wine & Spirit Competition

  Other reviews... Aeration allows aromas of oak, winter holiday spice and vanilla cake frosting to emerge. Supple palate entry, moderately honeyed; midpalate highlights include the buttery/creamy texture and tastes of cocoa, fiber, ash and beans. Sophisticated and world-class. 92 points - wineenthusiast.com

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• Emperor Jubilee Mauritian Rum (700ml)

  MAURITIUS

  $119. 99

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  $1439.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 40%

  An assembly of traditional rums stemming from the distillation of pure and fresh sugarcane juice and molasses, 'Jubilee' is finished in 400 litre Cognac casks. Anticipate notes of jammy tropical fruits mixed with Bourbon vanillas. 40% Alc./Vol.

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• • 88

  Emperor Heritage Mauritian Rum (700ml)

  MAURITIUS

  $109. 99

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  $1319.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 40%

  Tasting note: Amber gold. Gently warming aromas of vanilla wafer, crème caramel, pineapple pudding and honey with a delicate lift, following through to a light to medium bodied, cream-textured rum suggesting flavours of caramelised fruits, tea biscuits, gentle spice and trace molasses to finish. Sweet, smooth sipping. 40% Alc./Vol.

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• • Not gift boxed

  Emperor Sherry Cask Finish Mauritian Rum (700ml)

  MAURITIUS

  $110. 00

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  $1320.00 Dozen

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  ABV: 40%

  A blend of aged rums produced from freshly pressed sugarcane juice and molasses. In this Sherry Finish version, expect subtle notes of vanilla, caramelised fruits and sherry.

  Located off the coast of Madagascar, the island of Mauritius is a relative newcomer to the global rum scene. Sugar cane was introduced from Java during the Dutch period (1598-1710), mainly to produce an alcoholic drink. During his service in the 18th century, the French Governor, Bertrand-François Mahé de Labourdonnais, was the first to support the development of the rum industry in Mauritius. From 1810, the country became a British colony and gradually transformed itself into a plantation economy with sugarcane as the primary crop. Later, in 1852, Dr Pierre Charles François Harel saw opportunities to create quality rums on the island. Today, it's home to six distilleries and remains one of the few countries to offer both Traditional and Agricultural style rums, dark, light and spiced, the latter usually infused with the island's abundant local crops of spices and coffee.

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• • 93

  Equiano Rum (700ml)

  $129. 99

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  $1559.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 43%

  A blend of column distilled, molasses-based rums from Gray’s Distillery, Mauritius and Foursquare Rum Distillery, Barbados. The Gray’s component is aged in a combination of French Limousin Oak and ex-Cognac casks for ten years. It's then shipped to Barbados and blended with rum aged in ex-bourbon casks for a minimum of eight years. Richard Seale and Co. at Foursquare distillery oversee the bottling. The name references Olaudah Equiano, an African born writer, abolitionist and traveller who financed his activities (partly) via the trading of rum. He was enslaved in Africa, taken to Barbados, and eventually settled in the UK.

  Billed as the first 'Afro-Carribbean ' rum, the brand are donating 5% of profits to the Equiano foundation in his honour.

  Tasting note: Deep amber gold. Medium sweet aromas of rock candy, date cake and golden syrup. A supple, rounded, fruity rum, with graceful, semi-sweet flavours of pineapple pudding, cocoa, mango lassi and light molasses through the aftertaste. Excellent length and balance. A tropical fruit-driven style that's never too sweet. 43% Alc./Vol.

  Other reviews... 5+ Stars "Drinks like a fine cognac - without the added sugar. - diffordsguide.com

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• • 92

  Flor de Cana Centenario Gold 18 Year Old Rum (700ml)

  Chichigalpa, NICARAGUA

  $159. 99

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  $1919.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 40%

  Nicaragua is an often neglected producer of medium-bodied Rums from column stills that lend themselves well to aging. Thanks to the exceptional quality maintained by distillers like Flor de Cana, the region's rums have begun to gain well deserved international recognition. Flor de Cana is owned and produced by Compañía Licorera de Nicaragua, which was founded in 1890. Although the brand was not marketed commercially until 1937, it is today considered one of Latin America's most prestigious rums, and has won 72 awards, medals and commendations in the last five years.

  Tasting note: Deep burnished copper. Soft, plush scents of mocha, vanilla- wafer, buttered raisin toast and bounty bar. Light entry develops concentration at the mid palate stage where a burst of vanilla, crème café and sweet spices covers the tongue. Creamy textured with very gently warming spirit. Finish is finely tannic, on the drier side with subtle golden syrup and vanilla fudge followed by a delicate buttery / nutty fade. More opulent than its younger siblings but consistent with the house style which is all about grace and restrained power. 40% Alc./Vol.

  Other reviews...The bouquet offers appealing fragrances of oak, medium-sweet cane, escarole, pine cone and new leather. The palate entry is long and medium-sweet; at midpalate finely layered tastes of cocoa butter, palm oil, oaky vanilla, light honey and almond paste enthrall the taste buds. Concludes silky smooth, mildly sweet and honey-like. 40% Alc./Vol.  90-95 points - wineenthusiast.com
  ...Rich copper color. Dark caramel, buttered nuts, and spice aromas. A rich, supple entry leads to a viscous, dryish, full-bodied palate with robust dark chocolate, caramel, roasted nuts, and brown spice flavors. Finishes with a very long, charred oak, vanilla, and burnt caramel fade. A very serious, dry, and elegant rum. International Review of Spirits Award: Gold Medal, 94 points (Exceptional) - tastings.com

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• • 90

  Flor de Cana Grand Reserve 7 Year Old Rum (700ml)

  Chichigalpa, NICARAGUA

  $74. 99

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  $899.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 40%

  Nicaragua is an often neglected yet noteworthy producer of medium-bodied Rums from column stills that lend themselves well to aging. Thanks to the exceptional quality maintained by distillers like Flor de Cana, the region's rums have begun to gain well deserved international recognition. Flor de Cana is owned and produced by Compañía Licorera de Nicaragua, which was founded in 1890. Although the brand was not marketed commercially until 1937, it is today considered one of Latin America's most prestigious rums, and has won a multitude of awards, medals and commendations. The seven year old bottling is aged in small (180 liter) American oak barrels.

  Tasting note: Deep brass / amber colour. Medium-intense aromas include muted golden syrup and pancake-like scents followed by vanilla pod and mocha in later passes. Quite light on entry, building to a graceful, middle-weight, svelte textured profile and semi-sweet flavours of caramel fudge, dates and vanilla. Dry, gently peppery finish. A nicely integrated and elegant sipping rum to enjoy on its own. 40% Alc./Vol.

  Other reviews...Deep amber color. Burnt caramel, straw, and peppery spice aromas. A round entry leads to a dryish medium-bodied palate with dark caramel, toasted nuts, and cane stalk, and pepper flavors. Finishes with a drying mineral and lightly tannic, toasted coconut fade. A dry, reserved style.
  International Review of Spirits Award: Silver Medal
  88 points (Highly Recommended) - www.tastings.com

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• • 88

  Flor de Cana Extra Dry 4 Year Old White Rum (700ml)

  Chichigalpa, NICARAGUA

  $74. 99

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  $899.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 40%

  Nicaragua is an often neglected yet noteworthy producer of medium-bodied Rums from column stills that lend themselves well to aging. Thanks to the exceptional quality maintained by distillers like Flor de Cana, the region's rums have begun to gain well deserved international recognition. Flor de Cana is owned and produced by Compañía Licorera de Nicaragua, which was founded in 1890. Although the brand was not marketed commercially until 1937, it is today considered one of Latin America's most prestigious rums, and has won 72 awards, medals and commendations in the last five years.

  Produced from molasses, Flor de Cana White spends four years mellowing in American Oak before being filtered clear.

  Tasting note: Brilliant, rainwater clear. Understated scents of dried coconut, creamy soda and pineapple pudding. Medium bodied, with a lively canvas of flavours including bounty bar, nougat fudge and sponge cake; slightly peppery, with creamy soda repeating. Finishes well poised and on a less saccharine note. Lighter styled and endlessly mixable. 40% Alc./Vol.

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• • 90

  Flor de Cana Centenario 12 Year Old Rum (700ml)

  Chichigalpa, NICARAGUA

  $119. 99

  Bottle

  $1439.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 40%

  Nicaragua is an often neglected producer of medium-bodied Rums from column stills that lend themselves well to aging. Thanks to the exceptional quality maintained by distillers like Flor de Cana, the region's rums have begun to gain well deserved international recognition. Flor de Cana is owned and produced by Compañía Licorera de Nicaragua, which was founded in 1890. Although the brand was not marketed commercially until 1937, it is today considered one of Latin America's most prestigious rums, and has won 72 awards, medals and commendations in the last five years.

  Tasting note: Deep burnished copper. Dilute golden syrup, light mocha, dates and delicate creamy soda aromas. Aeration fails to coax more from the bouquet which remains relatively frail in the second pass. Satiny, with roasted nut and cocoa flavours, followed by vanilla wafer biscuit and a gentle peppery warmth. Concludes finely tannic, delicately spiced with hints of ginger bread in the aftertaste. 40% Alc./Vol.

  Other reviews... Copper color. Toffee, roasted nut, creme anglaise, and mild brown spice aromas. A round, supple entry leads to a smooth dry medium-to full-bodied palate with caramel leche, pie spice, white pepper, and dried fruit flavors. Finishes with a peppery spice, dark caramel, and charred oak fade.
  International Review of Spirits Award: Gold Medal 92 points (Exceptional) - www.tastings.com

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• • 93

  Flor de Cana 25 Year Old Rum (700ml)

  NICARAGUA

  $350. 00

  Bottle

  $4200.00 Dozen

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  ABV: 40%

  Nicaragua is an often neglected producer of medium-bodied Rums from column stills that lend themselves well to aging. Thanks to the exceptional quality maintained by distillers like Flor de Cana, the region's rums have begun to gain well deserved international recognition. Flor de Cana is owned and produced by Compañía Licorera de Nicaragua, which was founded in 1890. Although the brand was not marketed commercially until 1937, it is today considered one of Latin America's most prestigious rums, and has won 72 awards, medals and commendations in the last five years.

  Sourced from a single estate with the sugar cane grown on the distillery's own plantations in the Chichigalpa, then five times distilled, Flor de Cana 25 is a pinnacle of the range with only a small number of bottles allocated to the Australian market each year.

  Tasting note: Bright polished copper. Seductive scents of light golden syrup, crème caramel and vanilla custard with later inhalations offering dates, fruit’n’nut chocolate, beeswax, pineapple pudding and more. Glides across the tongue with a graceful parade of sugars: crème caramel, vanilla wafer and dates followed by hints of caramelised pineapple and new leather. Retains a sense of vibrancy and freshness throughout. Deceptively long. Easily the most luxurious of the collection, without sacrificing complexity or elegance. 40% Alc./Vol.

  Other reviews... Named “2017 Best Rum of the Year” by the International Rum Conference in Madrid.

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• Foursquare Rum Sixty Six 12 Year Old Family Reserve Rum (700ml)

  BARBADOS

  $99. 99

  Bottle

  $1199.88 Dozen

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  ABV: 40%

  If you're in the market for an easy-going, tasty Bajan style, Rum Sixty Six from the Foursquare Family Reserve will be for you. It was so named because the UK-based members of the Seale family used to smuggle unbranded bottles home to get them through the English winter. The title celebrates the 30th of November 1966 when Barbados became an independent state, adopting the coat of arms bearing the motto "Pride & Industry", a symbol also represented on the label. Described as a true Bajan style with a vibrant, golden colour and warming aromas and flavours of raisins, clove, demerara sugar and vanilla showing a complexity and texture you may not expect at 40% Alc./Vol. Tropically aged in x-Bourbon barrels. Enjoy it on rocks with a slice of lime or in a Dark and Stormy.

  Other reviews... 4.5 Stars - diffordsguide.com

  Other reviews... "The aroma has a pleasant roasted meat quality that couples nicely with the brown sugar. Smoke from the barrels comes to light as does baking spices. The rum is rich and soft initially with a sweet note, but that becomes bitter with hints of whiskey on the finish. A fine rum to sip if you are in the mood for bitter rather than sweet." 86 points - distiller.com

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