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

"A very serious, dry, and elegant rum. " - tastings.com

One of Latin America's most prestigious marques, Flor de Cana make attractive, lighter styled, column-distilled rums using estate grown molasses. The soils of the fifth generation family farm are enriched by an active volcano, the distillery powered by renewable energy and all the rums are tropically aged. Importantly, Flor de Cana's label now carry true age statements, with “years old” attached to each number on the labels (previously there was only a vague indicator of 'average age', which some considered deceptive). There is no solera system or blending from other ages. The sugar-free 18-year old is one of the high points of the range, issuing soft, plush scents of mocha, vanilla- wafer, buttered raisin toast and bounty bar, echoed in the taste. It shows good 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, the finish is finely tannic, on the drier side with subtle golden syrup and vanilla fudge followed by a delicate buttery / nutty fade. It's more opulent than its younger siblings but consistent with the house style which is all about grace and restrained power. Worth noting again, there's zero added sugar or additives of any other kind - relatively unusual for this segment - which makes it a refreshing alternative to competitors from Venezuela, Panama or Guatemala. 40% Alc./Vol.

Other reviews... If you are more familiar with the likes of Diplomatico Reserva Exclusiva and/or Zacapa this might be a way of trying an “undoctored” rum. It’s gentle with a natural and not overpowering sweetness. It’s quite a light, elegant style of rum very enjoyable.  I’ve found it nice to return to after buying so many cask strength single cask rums lately.  This offers a half way house – it appeals to my sweet tooth whilst retaining plenty genuine rum character. 4/5 stars - thefatrumpirate.com

Look for a copper-penny hue and mild coconut and floral aromas. The palate opens with vanilla and a pleasing violet tinge, fading into walnut, dried fig and espresso, plus a clove tingle. 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

Gold Medal - San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2025