Diplomático Blanco Rum

I'm unsure about this one. Perhaps the disconnect between visual appearance and taste perception is the cause. Initially, it presents a rich, creamy aroma with profound, potent molasses notes, unlike a standard light rum. Faint notes of aged timber and earthiness emerge, accompanied by pungent alcohol vapors, reminiscent of a young spirit. On the palate, a subtle sweetness appears, with brown sugar, almond, and warming spices. Curiously, there's also a touch of sticky herbal notes and a dry, woody character akin to a tongue depressor. The finish is unexpectedly fiery and arid, contrasting with the spirit's initial gentle sweetness. It lacks the smoothness of an aged rum but possesses a mild woodiness and richer, albeit subdued, flavors characteristic of one. This is not a spirit for sipping, much like most light rums, nor is it ideal for cocktails with many competing components. However, it makes excellent daiquiris, and I'll continue to explore its use. I likely won't purchase this again given the price difference.

This is the prior version of their white rum, now called Diplomatico Planas. It's not a rum I usually pick for cocktails, but it's decent. Unfortunately, it's a bit more expensive than other, better white rums. The nose has vanilla and coconut. On the palate, the sweetness is prominent, with a touch of pepper. The finish disappears quickly, but doesn't have much burn, and you get a hint of tropical fruit. It's an acceptable white rum, and if not for the price, I'd probably rate it higher. Ultimately, if I had to update my current white rum rankings with Diplomatico, Cruzan Diamond, and Mount Gay Silver included, they would be: 1. Privateer 2. Havana Club 3. Barbancourt 4. Mount Gay 5. El Dorado 6. Cruzan Diamond 7. Diplomatico 8. Cana Brava 9. Banks 5 Island 10. Flor de Cana 11. Angostura

Matches the flavor of wray and nephew overproof without the high alcohol content