Zacapa 23 Sistema Solera Rum

Initially, I found this spirit overly sweet, almost like candy, for my preference. However, as I've explored more rum, I've developed a new appreciation for it. The aroma is dominated by vanilla, possibly with a hint of almond, and possesses a ripe, very inviting sweetness. The scent is moderately pleasant, noticeable when you bring your nose to the glass but doesn't linger. The taste mirrors the aroma – strongly vanilla, a touch of almond, and some light caramel – it's exceptionally sweet. I'm sure someone who enjoys sweet spirits would like it more than I did initially. My goal is to encourage those who don't, like myself, to give it a try. This rum is a blend of older and younger spirits, each contributing distinct characteristics in a rather remarkable way. The young spirit adds a pungent sourness, while the older one introduces smoky notes. Combined, they create something that tastes young yet refined, or mellow yet vibrant. It's a bottle that offers something for both young and experienced rum drinkers, given time.

Opened 2.5 years ago. Aroma: Vanilla, musty orange, ripe melons, molasses, and moderate ethanol. Taste: Brown sugar, toasted marshmallow, dark chocolate, overripe bananas, and melons. The finish is short, with notes of chocolate bitters, dark honey, fried bananas, and light ethanol. I acquired this some time ago, and it remains on my shelf. Having discovered more distinctive and robust cask strength rums from independent bottlers, less intense spirits like this don't appeal to me. It's acceptable, drinks light and easy, but I'll likely give the remainder of the bottle away.

A potent, cane liqueur from Guatemala, created using the solera method; aged in a blend of bourbon and sherry casks. It has a very sweet and nutty start with notes of honey, chocolate, dark brown sugar, fruit, mild smoke, and pipe tobacco; while a very rich and delicate middle adds notes of dried fruits, licorice, oak, dark brown sugar, and molasses; leading to a long and thick finish with hints of vanilla, coffee, honey, and smoke. June / October / November 2017 / May 2018 / February 2019 / August 2020

This is my initial rum review as I explore beyond whiskey. Aroma: brown sugar, pineapple, artificial cherry, raisin, sherry (is this sherry finished?) Flavor: licorice and tobacco initially, then raisin, coconut, pineapple, peach, cherry Finish: very mild; licorice, raisin, a hint of cinnamon, and what seems like the syrup from a Dole pineapple cup. This appears to be a good starting point for rum exploration. It's a decent sipping rum, but I don't anticipate reaching for it frequently.

Abundant vanilla alongside caramel and sugary cinnamon. It's well-rounded but notably sweet and lacks depth. No harsh alcohol sensation. The lingering finish presents apricot with fleeting hints of funk. A very enjoyable drink. Their presentation is exceptionally fitting. The packaging, both external and internal (featuring vibrant rainforest artwork), is gorgeous, and the handmade petate by Mayan women is a smart detail.

Sweet and rich, with brown sugar of course, but also a hint of dates, some tropical fruit top notes, and a base of light tobacco smoke plus suede. Quite sweet on the tongue with warming spice and some candied pineapple. Full bodied and syrupy. Heavy legs form slowly with small, neat tears following. The finish is short but rich, slightly woody, with an almost grassy note. Nose: 9 Taste: 8 Body: 9 Finish: 8