This is quite pleasant. The nose suggests a burnt brown sugar note alongside a smoky, leathery character. The taste mirrors this, combining rich molasses with a dark, charred flavor, perhaps even a touch of coffee. While I dislike coffee, I enjoy this. Sweetness emerges, but the finish is predominantly the char. It's akin to a cinnamon roll or molasses cookie that was overbaked into a nugget of extremely crisp brown sugar. However, it tastes better than that description implies. It's not exceedingly complex, but it is very good. It primarily relies on that appealing blend of char and brown sugar—a fine combination indeed! The brown sugar shares similarities with Barbados rums, but the smoky char lends it more vigor. It has a ruggedness that makes you feel somewhat bold drinking it, yet it's not so harsh that you must be particularly tough to enjoy it. The price is reasonable, under $25. I will likely purchase it again in the future.
Hamilton Guyana Rum
Rum Aged Rum Guyana No age statement 43% ABV
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About this bottle
Guyana, a South American nation situated near the Caribbean, is recognized for its characteristic smoky rums derived from Demerara sugar. Although numerous distilleries once operated in the country, consolidation has led to all rum production now being under Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL). DDL employs various historical stills, including wooden pot and column stills. While DDL's products are widely available, such as El Dorado and numerous multi-island blends, rum expert Ed Hamilton has imported two distinct custom blends. These meticulously sourced and documented rums are aged for up to five years without any added sugar post-distillation. This specific rum is identical to Hamilton Demerara Overproof but has been diluted to a more approachable 86 proof, with a small amount of spirit caramel added for color.
How it tastes
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Reviews
Showing the most detailed of 5 parsed reviews.
Following El Dorado 15, this was my second experience with Demerara rum. It presents as considerably less sweet and layered than the previous one, though potentially offering more funk and smoke. It shines in a Dark & Stormy, leading me to believe it will perform admirably in different mixed drinks. Surprisingly smooth to drink straight, even if it’s not my usual choice. I’m eager to delve deeper into this spirit...
The color in the glass is lighter than anticipated for a dark blended rum. It smells of overripe banana, followed by sweet fruit and smoky molasses. A pleasant medium finish and a tasty rum overall!
Dark molasses with undertones of leather. It's smooth enough to drink straight, but not particularly thrilling.
I bought this rum for $9 and it turned out to be an excellent value.
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