Holmes Cay Heritage Blend Esotico Edition Rum (750ml)

In some countries, like the U.S., rum is still largely defined by hackneyed references to tropical themes and limiting cocktail programs. Those in the know recognise that there is so much more to rum than pitchers of pina coladas or Tiki Tuesdays. Enter Eric Kaye - a serial entrepreneur and a rum lover and collector. Kaye saw an opportunity to elevate the category, and in 2019, his label 'Holmes Cay' (pronounced ‘key’) was launched as a modern take on a centuries-old product. The company's focus remains on sourcing unadulterated, limited-edition casks from respected and up-and-coming distilleries that are difficult to procure via mainstream supply chains.

The Heritage Blend is a tribute to the three rum traditions that arose in the Caribbean basin. Each component celebrates the diversity of the spirit, employing three key styles: rum, rhum and ron. Specifically, the Esotico edition is composed of a molasses-based pot / column still blend from Barbados, a Venezuelan Ron molasses-based column still component and a Martinique rhum cane juice-based column still addition. There's no sugar, no colour and no other flavours added. Offering notes of vanilla custard, dried fruits, citrus and baking spice and bottled at 43%, the Heritage Blend shows gracefully in classic cocktails but is primarily intended to be a great sipper on its own. The label design is a collaboration with Esotico’s Daniele Dalla Pola, paying homage to vintage travel posters and the thrill of travel.

Other reviews… Complex aromas include almond and vanilla, plus a seaside saline breeze. The mouthwatering palate shows coconut and espresso bitterness and finishes notably long—a ribbon of almond, coconut and vanilla fading off into the distance. Best Buy. 96 points - Wine Enthusiast, reviewed by: Kara Newman 2023

Notes from the importers... Nose: Funky fruit salad with a side of floral frangipani(?) garnished with an herbaceous, grassy grassy note. Palate: Super creamy banana custard at first, then it dries out and turns on a more candied rind quality. Finish: More citrusy notes and a slight aniseed leaning at the back end of this short crisp finish. This is a rum that has been designed to sip neat, slide nicely over ice or slap into your favourite cocktail or tiki drink with negative perspiration! It plays nice anyway you like it.  And you’re gonna like it, I promise. There’s just nothing not to like in this easy drinking rum/rhum/ron combo!