This new rum just now hitting the market hails from Nicaragua, where a single expression — 8 years old on the label — is currently being offered. Column-distilled from molasses five times and aged in American oak (ex-Bourbon barrels, I presume), it spends a minimum of 8 years in cask and a maximum of 10 before being bottled. Thoughts follow.

The nose is fragrant and fresh, with a very lively, floral character and lots of fresh citrus fruit. Light and spry, it almost comes across as lightly sherried. Lemon and honey notes are strong on the palate, with a long and sweet finish that recalls shortbread and — notably — sugar cookies. There’s barely a hint of wood in this rum, and the finish is so smooth you might not feel you’re drinking alcohol at all.

Dangerous stuff, and quite delicious.

80 proof.

A / $22

Ron Fortuna Reserva Exclusiva Anejo 8 Anos Rum

$22

9.5

Rating

9.5/10

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