El Dorado 12 Year Rum

EL DORADO RUM CONFRONTATION El Dorado 12-Year El Dorado 21-Year Continuing to explore spirits within my collection that have yet to be reviewed. Nearing the conclusion of this process. I estimate that 95% of my collection consists of whisk(e)y. However, I have a fondness for rum, not only for its flavor but also for its historical significance in America. I owe my introduction to premium rums several years ago to a good friend. These two El Dorado bottles, along with the El Dorado 15-Year which is long gone, are a result of their recommendations. El Dorado 12-Year The color is a clear, dark mahogany. The aroma leans more towards brown sugar than molasses, accompanied by fried plantains, an herbal quality that presents as both grassy and like pressed sugar cane, cocoa powder, and oaky vanilla. The sweetness persists through a light, glycerin-like mouthfeel, concluding with a brief cinnamon spice and simple syrup on the moderately long finish. El Dorado 12 can be purchased for approximately $35. Would I repurchase it? Yes. Rated 4.0. El Dorado 21-Year The color is marginally deeper than the 12-year, a fraction darker than Pantone 167. Sweet aromas detected include dark honey and grape jelly, along with banana and vanilla. Similar to the 12-year, there's an herbal element, more akin to celery seed here. The palate exhibits a pleasant viscosity, and the sugars are richer and more profound. The alcohol presence is minimal. El Dorado 21 is not inexpensive. It's currently available for around $130 (I acquired mine at a lower price a few years back). Would I purchase it again? Yes, if cost were not a factor. Rated 4.0. From what I recall, both a friend and I believed the El Dorado 15 to be the superior of these three some time ago; perhaps that's why my bottle of it is no longer present. The 12 possesses a liveliness that the 21 lacks. Although both rums share the same proof, it is more apparent and enjoyable in the 12. Conversely, the 21 offers a richness and depth absent in the 12. This likely explains my past assessment that the 15-Year was the best of the group, achieving a balance between these characteristics. These "Confrontations" aid me in better understanding different spirits within my somewhat subjective categorizations, and furthermore, they provide a broader context when comparing a current group (or individual bottle) against recently tasted ones that remain fresh in my memory (or olfactory and gustatory senses). Recently, I've been writing numerous bourbon reviews, particularly focusing on various barrel-proof offerings, and these two El Dorado rums, at only 80 proof, pale in comparison in that regard. I do believe both would benefit from a higher proof. As I've stated on numerous occasions, I am not a proponent of any spirit bottled at the minimum acceptable ABV (which these are). It suggests a primary focus on economic efficiency. While economics are integral to any business, my tolerance for low-proof spirits is significantly greater for lower-priced offerings intended for mass consumption. These rums do not target the same audience; they are intended for sipping, not mixing. Even a modest increase to 83 proof, a common standard for many Scotch whiskies, would at least indicate a prioritization of enhanced quality. Note: All spirits were tasted neat in a Glencairn glass.

My initial experience with aged rum. I wanted something different and to try my best to enjoy it. The aroma presented significant molasses and caramel with intense sweetness. I've heard this rum has a lot of added sugar, which might explain my perception. Oak, vanilla, and subtle baking spices were also present, with only faint hints of citrus. The mouthfeel was pleasantly thick, a characteristic I'm curious if all aged rums share. It was quite sweet, with prominent notes of rich cocoa, vanilla, and dried fruits like prunes and raisins. I didn't detect any oak, which was a welcome change from my bourbon tastings. Caramel and toffee flavors were strong, alongside considerable spice. The components were distinct without being overwhelming, offering a good, though not overly complex, experience. The finish was moderately dry with hints of spice and menthol, plus a touch of smokiness. It's a good value for the cost. I'm keen to try it with cola, expecting it to hold up reasonably well, though not exceptionally. I feel the need to explore more aged rums. While I've heard positive remarks about Plantation, I believe Diplomatico represents the next step I wish to take.

The bouquet is rich with vanilla, caramel, molasses, and subtle spices. The flavor profile mirrors the aroma, with molasses and vanilla coating the palate. A slight bitterness balances the sugary sweetness, akin to herbal tea and a touch of semi-sweet chocolate. Notes of plum, nectarine, and raisin are also detected. It's complex and very appealing. The finish is moderately long, inviting another taste. A very commendable offering at a fair price. Nose: 4.24/5 Taste: 4.25/5 Overall 4.25/5 Repurchase: Yes Type: Friday Night Pour

The spirit has good viscosity. It presents a deep amber shade with hints of red. The aroma is sweet, reminiscent of molasses and caramelized sugar, with a whisper of vanilla. You can also detect a subtle dark fruit note, possibly cherries or plums. The taste offers a substantial texture that coats the palate well. It begins with a mild warmth and notes of baking spices like allspice and cinnamon. This then evolves into woody, oak undertones. The conclusion is smooth, featuring caramelized sugar and vanilla.

This rum is fantastic, but there's a caveat. I tend to prefer Jamaican rums, which might slightly influence my perspective, but to be honest, this is a genuinely excellent rum. If you enjoy any rum from the Demerara region, you'll find this delightful. I'd only drink this neat, with a little water, or on ice. Mixing it with cola, dry ginger, or sprite seems to overwhelm its character with too much flavor and carbonation.

A subtle rum that doesn't offer much to discuss. It's a fitting choice for novice sippers seeking an accessible option. Its noticeable sweetness makes it more approachable than some traditional spirits that can be quite intense. I'd purchase it again for my collection. The palate is balanced, wrapped in a sweet profile.