The Real McCoy 5 Year Rum

I'm gradually exploring rum, coming from a whiskey background, likely shared by many on this platform. I was advised that Foursquare offers a good entry point into the rum category, and I concur; Foursquare is excellent. Subsequently, I discovered a store selection of this for $30 and recalled positive mentions, prompting a purchase. It was only after my initial tasting that I realized it also originates from the Foursquare distillery, a connection I could clearly discern upon tasting. This rum is exceptionally well-balanced, featuring an appropriate level of sweetness and tropical notes, complemented by the deep caramel and tobacco characteristics found in whiskey. Neither element dominates; they enhance each other. It possesses a pleasing, slightly viscous mouthfeel. For $30, The Real McCoy 5 significantly diminishes the appeal of its higher-priced counterpart, exceeding $70. It's certainly a worthwhile acquisition for anyone looking to delve into the world of rum.

The nose is subtly spicy, slightly hot from the alcohol, but not excessively so. Abundant oak, spicy and tannic like French oak, brown sugar, vanilla, cigar wrappers, plus overripe, caramelized tropical fruits such as honey papaya and grilled pineapple. On the palate, it's sweet but not overwhelmingly so. Plenty of sugar, spice, and all things nice. There's fruit syrup, primarily honeydew, cola spice, oak, and a touch of cocoa. The body is somewhat thin in the mouth, but in the glass, the legs are swift yet attractive, heavy with large teardrops falling nicely and uniformly in successive waves. The finish is short, dry, moderately fruity with a hint of maraschino cherry, vanilla, and lingering wood. Nose: 9 Taste: 9 Body: 8 Finish: 8

A deep copper hue with overwhelmingly strong banana aromas, repeated extensively. To be serious, this tropical concoction boasts vibrant scents of very ripe Cavendish bananas, red bananas, Gros Michel bananas, and a distinct artificial banana candy flavor. The palate reveals rich brown sugar, vanilla, grassy plantain, and a mild, warming spice reminiscent of the holidays. The finish is brief, echoing notes of banana and sugar. It's a very easy-drinking rum, though not particularly captivating.

I find myself wavering on this one, much like a politician. At times I think, "Wow, this is a contender!" And other times I wonder, "What is this new spirit?" Overall, it's respectable, if a bit on the thin side. It also pairs so well with the extremely progressive, highly questionable, very prejudiced brand of Coke that it's the only label I'll mix it with when no one's observing, except for the cat.

This rum is okay. It has a taste of butterscotch and caramel, with those flavors being quite prominent. I liked it straight and then with ice. It would likely work well in cocktails. I made an effort to acquire this because a friend's 3-year-old white rum was one of the first white rums I genuinely enjoyed. This one is acceptable too. I may try the 12-year expression in the future.

This rum has grown on me. Initially, it seemed rather ordinary, but my enjoyment increases with further tasting. It possesses a natural brown sugar sweetness, despite no added sugar. A spicy element is present, along with a subtle vanilla note. It offers a pleasant, full flavor that is more intricate than it first appears. I will probably purchase it again.