El Dorado 5 Year Rum

This smells like very sweet vanilla with a hint of oak, not much, as it wasn't aged for very long, a bit young and harsh but still enjoyable. I appreciate a spirit with some bite. The Demerara aroma is pleasant, offering some toffee and a subtle, nice note of dried grass. On the palate, it has the characteristic El Dorado funk, reminiscent of overripe, almost rotting bananas, a very pleasing fermented flavor. It's a bit thin; you can definitely tell they don't do much beyond aging their spirit longer, as the 15 is simply a more mature version of the 5 year old. Still quite good, especially considering the very reasonable price, as are all El Dorado rums. I would definitely suggest it to anyone who doesn't want to overspend on rum but still desires something nice and flavorful.

The aroma is rich with hints of butterscotch, molasses, banana bread, and vanilla. It has an oily and slightly sharp feel in the mouth. The palate is a bit less intense, featuring more vanilla, butterscotch, molasses, and banana bread, with espresso appearing on the finish before fading to neutral ethanol. The finish is short to medium length. 2.50/5.00 – Okay (served neat)

It has a golden hue in the glass with long, clinging legs and a dry, earthy aroma. The taste is warming without being overly harsh, transitioning to a mellow, fruity flavor. I'm uncertain if it would perform well in mixed drinks, so it's best enjoyed neat or on the rocks.

A solid choice, great in a rum and coke. However, don't bring it to a gathering where others have a well-regarded 12-year-old rum.

Smells like maple syrup. Gentle and sweet without being excessive. Notes of light oak and soft brown sugar. Costs $27 in Ontario.

The nose isn't pleasant. The palate is decent, with a lot of oak. It lacks complexity. It's enjoyable but won't be remembered.