SPIRITS REPORT – RUM SPIRITS REPORT – RUM Set Sail Rum is growing increasingly RRP $35 - $49.99 Matusalem Platino Captain Morgan Original 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $40 Spiced Gold diverse – spanning zesty and Thirsty Camel 35% ABV, 1L RRP $42.99 Havana Club Añejo 3 Años A triple-distilled double-filtered white Lion 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $36.99 tropical through to sweet and Pernod Ricard rum with a clean taste and subtle flavour. Spice and natural flavours are blended Aged for three years, this rum has an Notes of vanilla and brown sugar on the with Caribbean rum before ageing in fruity, or richly spiced – so there’s intense nose of banana and smoked nose, smooth and creamy on the palate charred white oak barrels. A smooth rum something for everyone. oak, with flavours of smoke, vanilla with fruity flavours, a hint of vanilla and a with notes of rich vanilla, brown sugar, and chocolate. dry finish. warming spices and a hint of oak. We round up what’s on offer… Havana Club Especial Stolen Dark Flor de Caña 4 YO (Extra Seco) 37.5% ABV, 1L RRP $40.99 37.5% ABV, 700ml RRP $44.99 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $36.99 Beam Suntory Hancocks Pernod Ricard A golden rum that is rich, round and A lighter, smoother version of the A sugar-free premium rum that is creamy with notes of vanilla, caramel traditionally heavy, naval-style dark rums. sustainably produced (Carbon Neutral & and a hint of wood thanks to a second Stolen Dark is aged for a minimum of Fair Trade certified) at a 5th generation finish (double ageing) in young white oak two years in ex-whiskey charred oak family estate in Nicaragua. A light-bodied barrels before the final blend. barrels. Demerara caramel provides its rum with aromas of sweet almonds deep colour, along with lightly toasted and vanilla leading to a palate of white Stolen Gold sweet caramel aromas on the nose and chocolate and orange essence with a 37.5% ABV, 700ml RRP $39.99 honeyed texture. long, dry finish. Beam Suntory A smooth, full-bodied and versatile gold Black Heart Dark Rum Bacardi Carta Blanca rum. Aged for a minimum of two years in 37.5% ABV 1L RRP $41.99 37.5% ABV, 1L RRP $46.99 Asahi NZ Lion ex-whiskey charred oak barrels. Aromas of butterscotch and cinnamon spice; smooth A smooth rum with a rich, strong flavour. This classic Cuban white rum is a mainstay and buttery on the palate with notes of Black Heart also played a part in New behind bars the world over. Aromas of toffee apple. Zealand’s naval history as the official rum tropical fruit with distinctive vanilla and in the days when sailors enjoyed a free almond notes alongside banana and Stolen White daily rum ration. apricot. Ideal for a classic mojito. 37.5% ABV, 700ml RRP $39.99 Beam Suntory Havana Club Cuban Spiced Rum Barrel aged for a minimum of two years 35% ABV, 700ml RRP $41.99 Pernod Ricard and then carbon filtered to remove any trace of colour or impurities. Aromas of A new release in New Zealand from cocoa and fruit, which continue on the Havana Club, the Spiced expression palate, and a sweet delicate mouth feel. is inspired by Cuba. It balances sweet vanilla and aromatic spice with hints of juicy ripe guava, toasted coconut and fresh pineapple.

62 DRINKSBIZ AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2021 DRINKSBIZ AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2021 63 SPIRITS REPORT – RUM SPIRITS REPORT – RUM

Bacardi Carta Oro Bacardi Spiced is a more recent release with the rum Plantation Three Stars White Rum El Dorado Cask Aged 3 Years Bayou Reserve Rum 40% ABV, 1L RRP $46.99 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $49.99 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $52.99 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $54.99 Lion aged in charred American oak barrels then charcoal Proof & Co Tickety-Boo Tickety-Boo This golden rum was used in the original This rum has delicate scents of brown This three-year-old full-flavoured cask- This rum from Louisiana is matured in Cuba Libre, made to celebrate the end of filtered and blended with spices. sugar, honey and coffee bean, developing aged rum has aromas of citrus and vanilla, bourbon barrels for up to three years the Cuban War of Independence. Ageing into baking spices. Light-bodied on the enhanced by notes of chocolate and using the Solera ageing method. It has in toasted oak barrels gives its golden hue palate with flavours of dark chocolate and raisins. A smooth, rounded palate with aromas of creamy vanilla with hints of and mellow flavours of vanilla, buttery Stolen Smoked Angostura 5YO egg cream. coconut; fruity with a dry, rounded finish. apple and cinnamon. The palate opens caramel, toasted almond and sweet 37.5% ABV, 700ml RRP $46.99 37.5% ABV, 700ml RRP $49.99 with a dry oak-like character, followed Beam Suntory Federal Merchants banana, balanced by orange zest and a Sagatiba Cristalina Skipper Dark Rum by pronounced cinnamon and maple. A Stolen Smoked uses freshly roasted Five years in oak barrels gives this rum light oaky finish. 38% ABV, 700ml $49.99 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $52.99 dry rum with lingering notes of dark fruit Colombian coffee beans, Madagascan a rich golden colour, with flavours of Thirsty Camel Tickety-Boo and wood. vanilla, Moroccan fenugreek and chocolate, spice, vanilla and toasted oak Bacardi Spiced Sagatiba Cristalina is a Brazilian cachaça Aromas of treacle, butterscotch and a smoking process using American leading to a warm and mellow finish. 40% ABV, 1L RRP $46.99 made using multi-distillation to separate honey, with hints of black pepper, Bayou Spiced Rum Lion hardwood to infuse the aged Caribbean Serve as a sipping rum or use in spice- any impurities and create a pure and espresso bean and charred oak. It is 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $54.99 A more recent release from Bacardi, with rum with layers of flavour. It has aromas of driven mixed drinks. crystalline liquid. Clean and delicate with a buttery smooth in the mouth with Tickety-Boo the rum aged in charred American oak tobacco, vanilla, toffee, cacao and roasted sweet/spice character. flavours of crème caramel, gooey toffee A spiced rum inspired by the Creole barrels then charcoal filtered and blended coffee. On the palate there is deep freshly Beenleigh White Rum and custard with pepper, cinnamon and baking traditions for which its hometown with spices. It has a hint of barrel smoke, brewed coffee, vanilla, warm caramel and 37.5% ABV, 750ml RRP $49.99 Santisima Trinidad 3YO nutmeg. Notes of cinnamon and ginger of Louisiana is famous. Bayou Rum is EuroVintage subtle dried fruit and intense creamy dark chocolate with a long smoky finish. 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $49.99 on the lengthy finish. rested for up to 30 days with a special A bright white Australian rum. Soft and Tickety-Boo butterscotch on the palate with a slightly Ideal served neat, or in any rum, rye, or blend of Creole baking spices, creating rounded on the palate, it has molasses Designed for use in cocktails, the three- peppery finish. bourbon cocktail. Bacardi Reserva Ocho 8 Años aromas of cinnamon and sweet banana and hazelnut character, with a hint of oak year-old expression from Ron Santisima 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $54.99 and a palate full of maple, banana, and vanilla. Trinidad has aromas of sugarcane and Lion Coruba Gold Angostura 3YO Reserva allspice, clove, vanilla and pepper. oak with a hint of almonds. In the mouth A selection of barrel-aged reserve rums 37.2% ABV, 1L RRP $46.99 37.5% ABV, 700ml RRP $47.99 Lingering finish. Lion Federal Merchants Black Magic there is slight sweetness with defined aged for a minimum of eight years are This 100% Jamaican blend is a versatile Aged in barrel for three years, this white 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $49.99 notes of sugarcane, wood, almonds, blended to make this more premium Hancocks Cruzan Black Strap Rum entry-level rum, whose golden colour rum is charcoal filtered to remove any vanilla, grapes and dried plums. offering from Bacardi. It has aromas of A blend of light and dark rums made in 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $54.99 derives from ageing in small oak barrels. colour from the ageing process. The vanilla, toffee, honey and caramel with Beam Suntory the Caribbean. Aromas of caramel, spice, Smooth on the palate with hints of brown rum is dry, with a rich vanilla flavour and toasted oak. The flavour is smooth and Robust liquorice and molasses flavours cinnamon and vanilla lead to flavours of RRP $50 - $64.99 sugar, nutmeg and vanilla. smooth finish. rich with notes of prune, apricot, nutmeg makes this rum ideal for mixing into rich fruit cake and a long finish of vanilla and vanilla, and a soft wood finish. tropical cocktails: it pairs well with lemon, and brown sugar. Beenleigh Spiced Rum Coruba Original Appleton Estate Signature Blend 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $52.99 lime, ginger and pineapple. Its deep 37.2% ABV, 1L RRP $46.99 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $47.99 and 1L RRP $55.99 EuroVintage black hue is also great for adding colour Lion Lion Plantation Original Dark Rum This Australia rum is copper pot distilled to drinks. A mellow, full flavoured rum. Aromas and Fifteen select aged rums (aged for an 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $49.99 Proof & Co and aged in ex-brandy vats and American flavours of molasses, cocoa and caramel, average of four years) are combined to A richly exotic dark rum with black oak ex-bourbon barrels. Aromas of soft and a hint of spice. create the Signature Blend from Jamaican peppercorn, clove, cinnamon, baked vanilla and subtle spice lead to a palate of rum producer Appleton Estate. This cherry, and molasses on the nose. Fruity vanilla, rich spice and a hint of citrus. rum has aromas of rich fruit and sweet Bayou Spiced Rum is inspired by the Creole on the palate with white raisins and dried caramel, with flavours of subtle orange pineapple and a spicy, minerally character baking traditions for which its hometown of peel, dried apricot, fresh peach, and a hint moving to a dry, spicy finish. of molasses and woody notes. Louisiana is famous.

64 DRINKSBIZ AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2021 DRINKSBIZ AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2021 65 WhiskyGalore_Ad_297mm210mm_220721.pdf 1 22/7/21 10:57 am

SPIRITS REPORT – RUM

El Dorado Cask Aged 5 Years Beenleigh Double Cask 5YO Appleton Estate Reserve 8YO 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $54.99 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $57.99 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $59.99 Tickety-Boo EuroVintage Lion A deep golden-hued rum with aromas of This Australian rum is aged two years Appleton’s Master Blender, Joy Spence, dried tropical fruit, caramel, butterscotch in ex-brandy vats and three years in manages the rare ‘reserve stock’ at and molasses. Flavours of vibrant spice, American oak ex-bourbon barrels. It has Appleton, two of which add complexity fruit, caramel and toasted coconut, fading soft aromas of molasses, fruit toast and and depth to this blend of 20 select aged to vanilla. dried coconut. In the mouth there are rums. The Reserve Blend is full-bodied and rich Demerara and traditional fudge notes smooth with notes of spice and nuts, oaky Flor de Caña 7 YO (Gran Reserva) with a hint of floral characteristics. Apricot honey, subtle vanilla and dried orange peel. 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $54.99 and dessert pastry notes emerge too. Hancocks Bayou Single Barrel A full-bodied rum with aromas of toasted Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $59.99 coconut vanilla and figs. On the palate 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $57.99 Tickety-Boo there is honey and dark chocolate, leading Federal Merchants A limited-edition rum matured in rye to a long, smooth finish. Sailor Jerry rum is distilled in the Virgin barrels for two and a half years, creating Islands and has a Caribbean influence with aromas of smoked oak with bursts of Havana Club Añejo 7 Años flavours of cinnamon, nutmeg, clove and pepper and tropical fruit. Complex 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $54.99 rich vanilla. It has a long, dry finish with a flavours of spice, oak, honey, pineapple Pernod Ricard hint of toasted toffee. Goes especially well and creamy banana. A combination of barrels that have been with ginger. aged and blended, with the minimum Beenleigh Traditional Rum Liqueur age of any barrel being seven years. A Angostura 7YO 20% ABV, 750ml RRP $59.99 rich rum with aromas of cocoa, vanilla, 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $59.99 EuroVintage cedar, sweet tobacco and lush tropical Federal Merchants A rum liqueur with aromas of plum and fruits. Flavours of sugarcane, chestnut A blend of select rums aged for a apricot alongside caramel and toffee and caramelised tropical fruit sit above a minimum of seven years at House of dessert notes. Pronounced, silky rum backbone of oak and rich brown spice. Angostura’s Trinidad distillery. Aromas notes with a long finish. Winner of ‘Best Overall Rum’ at the NZ of vanilla, molasses, coffee, spice and Spirits Awards in 2020 and 2021. oak lead to flavours of chocolate, honey, Black Collar Gold Rum toffee, caramel, coffee and roasted nuts. 38.5% ABV, 700ml RRP $59.99 Beverage Brothers EXCLUSIVELY DISTRIBUTED The Kraken Black Spiced Rum 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $54.99 A small batch rum made in Black Collar’s Thirsty Camel copper still in its Bay of Islands distillery. BY WHISKY GALORE This inky black rum produced in Trinidad The aroma is almost creamy with subtle and Tobago is infused with herbs and butterscotch and vanilla. It’s light E: [email protected] | P: 0800 WHISKY (944 759) spices. Aromas of nutmeg, vanilla and and smooth on the palate with more 834 Colombo Street, Christchurch cinnamon lead to flavours of vanilla, dark butterscotch and slight vanilla sweetness chocolate, clove, rich fruit cake and toffee. balanced by oak. The lingering, creamy Rich and spicy. finish is of vanilla and oak.

66 DRINKSBIZ AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2021 SPIRITS REPORT – RUM

Black Tears Spiced Rum Langs Jamaican Rum Pineapple Spirited Union Pink Grapefruit 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $59.99 37.5% ABV, 700ml RRP $59.99 & Rose Tickety-Boo EuroVintage 38% ABV, 700ml RRP $59.99 This dry spiced rum from Cuba uses A classic pineapple and rum combo with Hancocks coffee, cacoa and aji dulce – a sweet chilli earthy sweetness and notes of coconut, This intriguing rum expression combines pepper synonymous with Cuba’s cuisine. vanilla, molasses, rum and subtle spice. citrus and blossom – with fresh pink The complex palate is of gentle cocoa On the palate there’s fresh pineapple, grapefruit, blood orange, vapour distilled with a punch of coffee on the finish, along rich caramel, cinnamon, oak and a touch rose petals and elderflower blossom all in with the lingering, peppery spice. Elegant of lime. The finish lingers with fruits and the mix. and well-balanced. spiced oak. Spirited Union Queen Pineapple Brugal Añejo Ratu Signature Blend 8YO & Spice 38% ABV, 700ml RRP $59.99 35% ABV, 700ml RRP $59.99 38% ABV, 700ml RRP $59.99 Hancocks Coca-Cola Europacific Partners Hancocks Brugal Añejo offers a clean, dry rum that’s Aromas of zesty orange, dark chocolate This new arrival hails from Amsterdam’s ideal for traditional rum serves, without and coffee, with a velvet mouth feel of Spirited Union distillery, where they an overly sweet finish. It has light aromas coconut and spiced oak followed by a infuse single origin rums with fresh of wood with hints of chocolate. Buttery lingering fresh citrus flavour. ingredients to create “botanical rums”. in the mouth with a slight hint of caramel The limited-edition release uses queen and wood tannin. The finish is long Ratu Dark Rum 5YO pineapple, cassia wood and cinnamon. and dry. 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $59.99 It has complex fruity notes and tropical Coca-Cola Europacific Partners freshness, with the natural sweetness of Savoury, smoked oak aromas give way Langs Jamaican Rum Banana the pineapple balanced by the heat of to the rich sweetness of caramel, vanilla 37.5% ABV, 700ml RRP $59.99 the spices. EuroVintage and tea leaves with a mouthwatering Aromas of warm banana bread, brown liquorice finish. El Dorado Cask Aged 8 Years sugar, cinnamon and vanilla lead to a 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $64.99 palate full of fresh sweet banana over Ratu Spiced Rum 5YO Tickety-Boo classic rum flavours. A fruity finish. 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $59.99 Aromas of subtle tobacco mix with Coca-Cola Europacific Partners caramel toffee alongside dried stone fruit Complex charred oak and citrus aroma Langs Jamaican Rum Mango and flambéed banana. The mouth-feel with a rich vanilla and candied orange & Ginger is smooth, soft and faintly sweet, with flavour, combined with the warmth of 37.5% ABV, 700ml RRP $59.99 traces of oak and butterscotch. EuroVintage cinnamon and star anise. The scent of fresh and fruity mango coulis mixes with warming hints of fresh ginger. Intense tropical fruits in the mouth, alongside lime and crystallised ginger. The ginger heat builds in a long, spiced finish. The new Spirited Union rums hail from Amsterdam, where single origin rums are infused with fresh ingredients.

DISTRIBUTED BY FEDERAL MERCHANTS & CO.

68 DRINKSBIZ AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2021 SPIRITS REPORT – RUM SPIRITS REPORT – RUM

RUM BRANDS

Ableforth’s Black Heart Coruba This British spirits brand is based in Kent, This was the New Zealand Navy’s official rum Coruba rums are all natural and distilled England. Founded in 2011 it also produces when sailors used to receive a free daily rum in Kingston, Jamaica. The Coruba brand is Bathtub Gin, Cold Distilled and ration – a practice that lasted into the 1950s. owned by Campari Group. Cherry Brandy. Black Magic Cruzan Angostura A spiced blend of light and dark rums Cruzan Rum is located in Saint Croix, in the House of Angostura has been producing rums produced by New Orleans company Sazerac. US Virgin Islands. The distillery was founded for 130 years and is the major producer by the Nelthropp Family and has been in Black Tears in Trinidad today. It is best known for its operation for more than 200 years. Cruzan This Cuban rum launched in 2019 and is production of Angostura Bitters, which were takes its name from the word ‘Crucians’, which owned by The Island Rum Company. Black invented by the company’s founder in 1824. refers to the people of St Croix. Tears takes its name from the Cuban song, Appleton Estate ‘Lagrimas Negras’ that tells the story of a Diplomatico Appleton Estate is in Jamaica’s Nassau Valley, young woman who sobbed into a vat of rum, The distillery that produces all of where all its rums are produced. It is the filling it with her sorrow. It was the first Cuban Diplomático’s rum was established in oldest sugar estate and distillery in Jamaica spiced rum brand. Venezuela in 1959. Today, it is 100% in continuous production, with the first known Venezuelan and privately owned under the Black Tot documentation of rum made on the Estate name Destilerías Unidas S. A. (DUSA). The A UK rum brand that launched in 2010 with dating back to 1749. Appleton Estate’s company is one of the largest rum producers Black Tot Last Consignment: a blend of rum Master Blender is Joy Spence, who became in Venezuela. Diplomático is distributed in made up of the very last remaining stocks of the world’s first female Master Blender when over 70 countries and holds the “Ron de British Royal Navy rum discovered in naval she was appointed in 1997, after 16 years Venezuela” DOC (Protected Denomination warehouses in Dartmouth and Deptford. with the company. of Origin). Goslings Black Seal Diplomático Mantuano LWF Distilling Rhubarb Rum Black Tot takes its name from ‘Black Tot Day’ 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $64.99 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA 40% ABV, 500ml RRP $65 Bacardi (31 July 1970) when the last rum ration was Don Papa Federal Merchants Whisky Galore LWF Distilling One of the world’s best known rum brands, issued aboard ships of the British Royal Navy, A rum brand owned by Philippines company A blend of aged rums made in small A blended rum from Venezuela that Infused with up to six different varieties Bacardi traces its origins to the 1830s when ending a 300-year-old tradition. More rums Bleeding Heart Rum Co. It is made on Negros Spanish wine merchant Facundo Bacardi followed in 2019, with Black Tot blending Occidental in the Philippines and is named batches, Bermuda-made Goslings has is aged for up to eight years in white of rhubarb, this rum has a pretty pink hue Masso moved to Cuba. His experiments rums from Barbados, Guyana and Jamaica. in tribute to Papa Isio, an historic figure from a distinctive dark colour. Rich, smooth oak casks, previously used for ageing and a fruity nose. The finish is of delicate, with refining rum using a proprietary strain Negros who helped drive the Spanish from Broken Heart and full-bodied with subtle butterscotch, bourbons and malt-whisky. A dark golden tart rhubarb. of yeast, charcoal filtering and ageing in the island in the 1890s. The rum uses locally This New Zealand brand launched several white oak barrels gave Bacardi its distinctive grown and milled sugar cane. vanilla and caramel. colour, this rum has aromas of dried fruits years ago with a gin by Master Distiller flavour and created the world’s first clear (plums), oak and a delicate spiciness. LWF Distilling Spiced White Rum Joerg Henkenhaf, following the death of El Dorado rum. The bat logo was inspired by the bats Mount Gay Rum Eclipse 40% ABV, 500ml RRP $65 the close friend and fellow Master Distiller El Dorado rums are distilled in South Notes of dried fruit, wood and vanilla on that lived in the rafters of the first distillery 37.5% ABV, 1L RRP $64.99 LWF Distilling with whom he had first created it. Both from America’s Guyana by Demerara Distillers, the palate with a slightly dry finish. that Masso established with his brother. Hancocks This rums starts with an intense citrus Germany, the pair wanted to create a gin which operates the last remaining Bacardi is owned by Bacardi Limited, that reflected their new homeland. Henkenhaf distillery in the country on the banks of the Mount Gay describes this new release as a nose that leads to spice and a sweet, the largest privately held, family-owned Diplomático Planas has since expanded the range to include new Demerara River. Many sugar estates and “heritage blend” and the embodiment of 47% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA earthy manuka honey note. spirits company in the world. Whisky Galore gin expressions, as well as a vodka and the distilleries merged during the early 20th the Mount Gay style. Eclipse is crisp and Bayou Rum spiced rum. century culminating in the amalgamation aromatic with distinctive aromas of vanilla An intense white rum made from a blend LWF Distilling White Rum Bayou Rum was established in 2013 in of all the various stills and equipment Brugal and banana and underlying caramel, of pot still, column and batch kettle rums 40% ABV, 500ml RRP $65 Louisiana and uses fresh locally grown in 1998 by Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL). Don Andres Brugal Montaner founded Brugal LWF Distilling sugarcane at its craft distillery. Its signature El Dorado launched in 1992 and DDL became summer fruit and spice. On the palate aged for up to six years. Fresh tropical in the Dominican Republic in 1888. Five This was the first release from LWF recipe uses 100% single estate molasses the first rum producer in the world to market there is an oaky character with slight aromas of coconut and ground coffee generations later, the rum is still crafted by produced by the oldest family-owned and a premium quality aged rum: El Dorado 15 Distillery when it launched in 2019. The the Brugal Family, with only family members burnt notes. with a palate that is slightly fruity with operated sugar mill in the United States. Year Old Special Reserve. white rum uses molasses from able to hold the title of a ‘Maestro Ronero’ creamy flavours. Serve neat, or in more Every batch is distilled by hand using copper in with a specialty yeast and (Master of Rum). Flor de Caña Plantation Barbados 5YO delicate cocktails. pot stills and aged in 200L bourbon and A sustainably produced premium rum brand 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $64.99 five-times filtered New Zealand rainwater. sherry casks. Bumbu Rum Co. from a family estate in Nicaragua that Proof & Co It has a fruity nose, smooth mouthfeel, A Barbados rum brand based in an historic dates back to 1890. Flor de Caña is Carbon RRP $65 - $89.99 Beenleigh distillery that was founded in 1893 and This five-year-old Barbados rum is aged and ends with a sweet caramel ‘rum funk’. The Beenleigh Rum Distillery is the oldest Neutral and Fair Trade certified, distilled with continuously operated for more than 120 in bourbon barrels for three to four years, registered distillery in Australia, commencing 100% renewable energy and naturally aged LWF Distilling Feijoa Rum years. Bumbu rums are based on 16th century then sent to Cognac Ferrand in France Black Collar Spiced Rum operations in 1884. It still operates from without sugar. 40% ABV, 500ml RRP $65 native recipes and are blended by hand from 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $69.95 its original building on the Albert River for finishing in cognac casks, which LWF Distilling island rums and native spices from across the Goslings Beverage Brothers in Eagleby, Queensland. It uses molasses draws out notes of wood and nutmeg. It West Indies. Goslings is synonymous with its home of This seasonal release from Taranaki sourced from Australia’s only remaining This deeply golden New Zealand rum Bermuda, where it is regarded as the national has aromas of leather and caramel with distillery LWF uses distinctive feijoa to family-owned sugar mill and pot stills its rums Captain Morgan is made with 100% natural spices and drink. It takes its name from wine and spirits hints of cinnamon, dried coconut and using its original copper equipment. This rum brand launched in 1944 and is create a green-hued rum with a fruity merchant James Gosling, who first opened a designed to be served neat. It has aromas named for Captain Henry Morgan, a 17th vanilla. Initially sweet on the palate, with aroma, intense feijoa sweetness and a shop in the town of St George’s in 1806. of cinnamon, cloves and a hint of almost Black Collar century Welsh privateer who became Sir molasses and hints of leather, alongside New Zealand distillery Black Collar was tart tang. raisiny sweetness. It’s smooth and Henry Morgan in 1673 and was named orange rind, salted butter and allspice. established in Northland in 2017. Its first Lieutenant Governor of Jamaica in 1680. He rounded in the mouth with a subtle spicy launch, Black Collar Vodka, won a Silver The finish is sweet with fiery spice at the lived on his sugar cane plantation in Jamaica kick of clove and charred oak and sweet Medal at the 2018 San Francisco World very end. until he died in 1688. vanilla to balance. Spirits Competition. Black Collar also makes gin.

70 DRINKSBIZ AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2021 DRINKSBIZ AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2021 71 SPIRITS REPORT – RUM SPIRITS REPORT – RUM

Grenada Bay McJaggery White Rum Sagatiba This Wellington craft distillery was the first in The first release from the NZ Rum Co. – an A cachaça (Brazilian rum) brand that the capital and was founded by two friends Auckland based small-batch rum distillery launched around 12 years go and translates from Titahi Bay, who combined their distillery founded in 2020. Founder Rob O’Connell as “infinite possibilities”. location in Wellington’s northern suburb of decided to make a dream into a reality Sailor Jerry Grenada with their Titahi Bay origins to come after years of skippering superyachts The distinctive hula girl on this rum’s label up with the Grenada Bay name. Grenada around the world. McJaggery White Rum is the creation of Norman ‘Sailor Jerry’ Bay offers three bottled rums as well as won the Innovation Award at the NZ Spirits Collins, the man dubbed “the father of the private casks. Award 2021. old-school tattoo”. A former US Navy sailor, Havana Club Merser & Co. Collins set up shop in Honolulu in the 1940s, Havana Club was first created in Cuba in This London rum brand launched in 2019 and where his intricate Asian-influenced American 1934. In 1993, Pernod Ricard S.A. and is owned by the Hayman family, owners of tattoos became highly sought after. The rum Corporación Cuba Ron S.A. launched a joint Hayman’s Gin. It sources aged Caribbean came about after his protégé, Ed Hardy, venture to produce and market Havana Club rums that it blends and bottles at its rum co-founded Sailor Jerry Ltd in 1999, to keep globally. It is one of the best-selling rum blending house in central London – said to be Collins’ legacy and artwork alive. Sailor Jerry brands in the world. the first in the capital in more than a century. rum is distilled in the Virgin Islands. Rum blending houses were once a fixture of Helmsman Santísima Trinidad 18th and 19th century London. A New Zealand rum brand that launched with A Cuban rum brand made at a distillery its spiced rum (using Caribbean golden rum) Mount Gay that was founded in 1944. It is named for and has since added a white rum to its range. Mount Gay Rum has been made in Barbados Santísima Trinidad, the town in which it for 300 years and is the world’s oldest is made. Honest commercial rum distillery. It was named for A new New Zealand spirits brand created by Skipper Sir John Gay Alleyne, the first manager of McJaggery White Rum Honest Six Spiced Botanical Rum Mount Gay Black Barrel two friends, who distil their spirits in Auckland. Skipper Dark Rum has been produced and the company. 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $72.99 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $74.99 Honest is carbon neutral and certified aged in Guyana since 1930, and still boasts is a new arrival on the Mineral Hancocks plastic-free. No.8 Distillery the original label on its bottle. This local newcomer has an initial Double ageing in deeply charred bourbon A new Dunedin distillery that was opened in The Kraken Spirited Union local scene and won the 2021 by business partners Michael Wilson burst of citrus and a delicate hint of oak barrels creates an undertone of classic A black spiced rum produced in Trinidad and An independent distillery in Amsterdam and Julien Delavoie, who also own café and vanilla, combined with aromatic notes bourbon spices balanced with oaky vanilla Tobago. It takes its name from the gigantic that specialises in botanical rum and has a Innovation Award at the venue Dog with Two Tails. As well as the of ginger and cloves. Intense orange and sweet caramel. legendary sea monster, known as a Kraken. particular focus on sustainability. It sources Pineapple Rum Elixir, the portfolio includes single origin rums that it combines with NZ Spirits Awards 2021. peel is followed by a subtle hint of Langs Rum gin and absinthe. botanicals to create its range. scorched sugarcane, with spicy warmth Plantation Stiggins’ Fancy A Glasgow-based brand that uses Jamaican Penny Blue of cinnamon and ginger and lingering Pineapple Rum rums for its range of flavoured rums. A blend Stolen Rum A single estate rum brand made on the 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $74.99 of molasses-rich pot and column distilled The Stolen Rum brand was founded by two McJaggery White Rum nutmeg. The finish is warm and island of Mauritius at the Medine distillery, Proof & Co rums, blended and infused with natural New Zealanders in 2010 and now has teams 43% ABV, 750ml RRP $69.95 comforting with undertones of cloves and which has been producing rum since 1926. fruit flavours. in Auckland, , New York, Los Angeles NZ Rum Co. This rum was named for Reverend The sugar cane is grown and processed on elegant spice. and Miami. Stolen sources and bottles its rum A new arrival on the local distilling Stiggins, the character in Charles Dickens’ Lunatic & Lover the estate, where distilling and ageing also around the world, including in the Caribbean. This Auckland craft distillery was founded takes place. The rum is named after the scene, NZ Rum Co makes its rum from Helmsman Spiced Rum The Pickwick Papers, whose favourite by husband and wife team Matt Bridge and famed ‘Penny Blue’ stamp from Mauritius, Waiheke Imperial natural sugarcane jaggery (as opposed to 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $74.99 drink was “pineapple rum.” The rinds of Angie Bradley, who launched their two rums which was created in 1847 as part of Based on Waiheke Island in Auckland’s molasses). The result is a refreshing, dry Hancocks Queen Victoria pineapples are infused in in 2020. Bridge uses vapour distillation in the inaugural postal service. However, it Hauraki Gulf, Waiheke Imperial produces white rum with aromas of fresh green and This New Zealand-brand rum is made Plantation 3 Stars White Rum and distilled, his process, describing Lunatic & Lover as contained a printing error, making the 500 premium bottled water from an aquifer dried grasses, and flavours of tart tropical from a blend of Caribbean golden rum and then the pineapple fruit is infused in “botanical rum”. Lunatic & Lover Barrel Rested stamps produced some of the rarest and most deep below the island. It also uses this water Botanical Rum won the ‘Best in NZ’ Rum expensive in the world today. in combination with organic ingredients to fruit, like green banana peel and papaya. and spices. Initial aromas of fruitcake are Plantation Original Dark rum. The distillate Category Trophy and Best Packaging Award create its rum, gin and bee tonic. Winner of the Innovation Award at the NZ followed by banana, vanilla and a hint and fruit infusion are then blended Plantation at the NZ Spirits Awards 2021. of warm spice. A full-bodied rum with and cask aged. The rum has aromas of Founded by entrepreneur Alexandre Gabriel Wray & Nephew Spirits Awards 2021. LWF Distilling in the mid-90s, Plantation represents an This historic rum brand is the best-selling high flavours of rich fruit, cinnamon and toffee. honeydew melon and a hint of Jamaican A Taranaki farm-based distillery in Oakura. artisanal range of rums from a variety of proof rum in the world. Its origins trace back Appleton Estate Rare Blend 12YO ginger cake with pineapple notes. Flavours ‘LWF’ stands for ‘Life Worth Funding’, inspired terroirs in the Caribbean. to 1825, when John Wray opened a bar in 43% ABV, 700ml RRP $69.99 Helmsman White Rum of spiced molasses, and shortbread Lion by distiller Janet Charteris’ former life in the the Jamaican seaport of Kingston and began 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $74.99 accompany a juicy, slightly earthy corporate world and a desire to return to Pusser’s producing his own rum. His nephew, Charles Hancocks This Royal Navy-style rum made in Guyana A blend of rare golden rums that have all grassroots and give back to the community. James Ward, joined the business 35 years element from the pineapple with notes of is produced in exact accordance with the been aged for a minimum of 12 years. This The white rum from Kiwi producer later and J. Wray & Nephew Ltd was born. vanilla, lemon, mango and spearmint on Matusalem Helmsman is aged for over a year in Admiralty’s specifications for rum (last used deep bronze rum has flavours of oak, fruit, the finish. The Matusalem brand was founded in 1872 when the Royal Navy discontinued its daily Zaya cocoa, molasses, orange peel, rich vanilla stainless steel tanks and plain oak casks, in Santiago de Cuba by brothers Benjamin ration in 1970). The blend is the same as it A premium rum brand that uses rums sourced and subtle coffee with a bittersweet finish. which creates its light blonde colour and and Eduardo Camp and their partner was on British warships. from the Caribbean. The name ‘Zaya’ is said Zaya Gran Reserva 16 Evaristo Alvarez. They believed ageing was to mean “triumphant woman”. sweet flavour. 40% ABV 750ml RRP $74.99 the key to making rum with the finest flavour Ratu Matusalem Gran Reserva 15 Thirsty Camel A rum brand produced by the Rum Co. of Fiji, and the name ‘Matusalem’ derives from 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $70 A blend of rums aged up to 16 years – this which has been operating since the 1980s in the old Spanish proverb, “This is older than Thirsty Camel Lautoka, Fiji. has aromas of baked fruit and spiced Matusalem” referring to the patriarch of the A Solera rum with an intense, rich nose vanilla and a palate that’s smooth with Old Testament who was said to have lived Russell Rum of wood, toasted nuts and butterscotch. for 969 years. The Barn Swallow logo was This rum brand is part of Blush Gin, an caramel, spice and toasted oak. The finish It has a smooth texture with flavours adopted after flocks of swallows nested in the Auckland craft distillery founded in 2017. lingers with a hint of smoke. barrel ageing warehouses. Blush also makes a range of gins. of cocoa, pronounced oak and a cognac-like finish.

72 DRINKSBIZ AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2021 DRINKSBIZ AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2021 73 SPIRITS REPORT – RUM

Pusser’s Rum Grenada Bay White Rum Bumbu Rum Original 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $75 47% ABV, 700ml RRP $78.99 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $79.99 Thirsty Camel Grenada Bay Brandhouse This Royal Navy-style rum uses the same This delicate white rum from Wellington This rum from Barbados is aged up to 15 blend that it supplied to British warships craft distillery Grenada Bay is triple years in American bourbon barrels. It has up until the Royal Navy discontinued its distilled with cardamom and pear, adding rich and complex aromas of Madagascan daily ration in 1970. Pusser’s Rum uses an earthy sweetness to the palate. vanilla, soft caramel, and oak. Notes five West Indian rums (three from Guyana, of cinnamon, roasted nuts, banana two from Trinidad) aged for at least three Ableforth’s Rumbullion and allspice on the palate and a light, years. It has aromas of demerara sugar, 42.6% ABV, 700ml RRP $79.99 smooth finish. Proof & Co molasses, dried fruits and spices, with Spiced and full-bodied, Rumbullion is a flavours of deep vanilla and honey. Plantation Xaymaca Special Dry blend of Caribbean rum with Madagascan 43% ABV, 700ml RRP $79.99 Proof & Co Wray & Nephew Overproof Rum vanilla, zesty orange peel, clove, cassia 63% ABV, 700ml RRP $76.99 and cardamom. It has intense aromas of This 100% pot still Jamaican rum was Thirsty Camel sweet vanilla and flamed orange zest with created to revive the quintessential rums An aromatic and intense rum at 63% a hint of old-fashioned cola, along with of the 19th century and the tradition ABV with top notes of citrus, pear and cloves and cinnamon. On the palate, it is a known as “rum funk”, with intense pineapple, married with bottom notes of combination of bitter orange marmalade aromas and flavours of black banana and honey and molasses. and spices with hints of honey, cinnamon, flambéed pineapple. Xaymaca Special Dry molasses, toffee apples, crème brûlée has a complex, slightly smoky and meaty No.8 Pineapple Elixir and cloves. The finish is long with spice, aroma, with fruity, herbal and sour notes 36% ABV, 250ml RRP $39, 700ml RRP $77 cinnamon, orange and sweet vanilla. building. It’s dry on the palate, with a No.8 Distillery floral and fruity profile of rose water, pear, A brand new release from new distillery Broken Heart Spiced Rum white grape and apricot, with coconut No.8 in Dunedin. Distiller Julien Delavoie 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $79.99 milk, allspices, bread and nuts. says he first started making this style Giesen of rum, aged with fruit and spices, as a A spiced rum from New Zealand spirits Santísima Trinidad 7YO 16-year-old in France. This version was brand Broken Heart. Smooth and well 40.3% ABV, 700ml RRP $79.99 cask aged for a year. It has an aroma of balanced, it is aged three years in barrel Tickety-Boo sticky sweet pineapple, but not cloying, and uses natural spices of galangal, This expression from Cuba’s Ron Santísima with a hint of earth and verging into vanilla, orange peel, cloves and cinnamon, Trinidad has a hint of sweet raisins on the raisin, fruit cake and baking spice. The with distinct caramel, candied walnuts nose, while in the mouth there is oak, pineapple persists on the palate with and cinnamon on the palate. vanilla and sweet almonds. a burst of freshness and a rounded mouthfeel. The finish is delicately sweet. El Dorado 12YO Light and luscious. A second release is 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $84.99 Tickety-Boo scheduled for October. The youngest expression in El Dorado’s Luxury Cask Aged Range, which are rums designed to be savoured. The 12YO has Cuban rum Santisima Trinidad 7YO has a aromas of lush tropical fruit and spice with hint of raisin on the nose, with flavours of hints of honey and dark sugar. The palate is round, mellow and full-bodied with rich oak, vanilla and sweet almonds. flavours of fruit and spice and a dry finish.

74 DRINKSBIZ AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2021 SPIRITS REPORT – RUM

Russell Rum Charles Merser & Co Diplomático Reserva Exclusiva 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $85 Double Barrel 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA Blush Distillers 43.1% ABV, 700ml RRP $89.99 Whisky Galore The team at New Zealand’s Blush Distillers Hancocks A sipping rum that is aged in small oak use oak-aged Caribbean rum in their A golden rum with aromas of vanilla, casks for up to 12 years. It has aromas spiced rum, which includes nutmeg, clove, tropical fruit and a toasty oak character. of maple syrup, orange peel, brown and local citrus. The palate is mouth-coating, warming sugar and liquorice, with flavours of and generous with soft notes of vanilla, sweet toffee fudge. Serve neat, on the Angostura 1919 more tropical fruit and some vinous notes rocks, or use in a premium Manhattan or 40% ABV, 70ml RRP $89.99 created through the cask maturation Old Fashioned. Federal Merchants process. Toasty oak returns on the finish A specially blended multi-award-winning alongside sweet vanilla and hints of Black Tot Caribbean Rum rum named for an important date in pastry cream. 46.2% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA the development of the rum industry Whisky Galore in Trinidad & Tobago, as well as the Don Papa 7YO Crafted from a marriage of fruity Caribbean. After a fire in 1932, which 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $89.99 Barbadian, full-bodied Guyanese and The essence of Cuba destroyed the Government Rum Bond, Glengarry Spirits vibrant Jamaican rums, the Black Tot gets the master blender of Fernandes Distillers This small batch rum has a light fruit its name from the ration of rum issued in a bottle bought the charred casks, only to discover aroma and is smooth and delicate on the daily to sailors of the Royal Navy. A rich they had been filled in the year 1919. The palate with a long, rich finish. Flavours of and complex rum with flavours of golden prized rum was blended and called “1919 vanilla, honey and candied fruits. syrup, tropical fruits and a leathery hint. Aged Rum.” A soft rum with complex A note of coffee and chocolatey mocha toasty flavours from extended ageing in Flor de Caña 12 YO on the palate, with butter toffee and oaky charred barrels. 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $89.99 spice. A roasted banana character on the Hancocks finish, ending this rich, fruity and slightly An ultra-premium rum from Nicaraguan Bumbu Rum XO funky rum. 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $89.99 distillery Flor de Caña. Aromas of red Brandhouse fruits, honey and toasted nuts leading to a Penny Blue XO Single Estate The XO expression from Bumbu is aged up palate of wood, vanilla and baked apples, Mauritian Rum Batch #007 to 18 years in American bourbon barrels with a smooth and well-balanced finish. 41.8% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA and then finished for at least six months Whisky Galore in Spanish sherry casks. It has aromas of Plantation OFTD Overproof Rum This Mauritian rum is released in toffee, toasted oak, and vanilla, leading 69% ABV, 700ml RRP $89.99 small batches, with variations on the Proof & Co to a palate of orange zest, peppery spice, proportions of different casks. Each batch An intensely flavourful rum, ideal for and a hint of coffee. in the series retains a level of continuity cocktail making. Notes of coffee, orange, but is distinct; high levels of complexity plum and truffles on the nose. In the are a hallmark of XO. The nose is fresh mouth there are bursts of caramel, and well balanced with a subtle smoky chocolate, vanilla, cinnamon, oak, wood spice and a touch of tobacco. The nutmeg, and smoke. Lingering finish with palate is mouth filling and generous, dark chocolate and clove. dominated by sweet fruits, wood spice and cooking spices. A very long finish reminiscent of prunes macerated in well- aged rum.

76 DRINKSBIZ AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2021 Distributed in New Zealand by Tickety-Boo Ltd. Phone 09 377 7597 Distributed in New Zealand by Tickety-Boo or email [email protected] for further information. www.tickety-boo.co.nz SPIRITS REPORT – RUM SPIRITS REPORT – RUM

Flor de Caña 18 YO Angostura 1787 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $120 RRP $125 and above 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $149.99 Hancocks Federal Merchants As with all rums from Nicaraguan Lunatic & Lover Silver A super-premium rum made from a 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $125 distillery Flor de Caña, this sugar-free Lunatic & Lover blend of rums aged for a minimum of 15 ultra-premium rum is sustainably This debut rum from Auckland distillery years. It has aromas of banana, dried fruit produced (carbon neutral and Fair Trade Lunatic & Lover uses molasses from the and oak with top notes of apples. The certified) and naturally aged without nearby Chelsea Sugar Factory as well as medium-bodied palate has hints of dried artificial ingredients, distilled with 100% locally grown fruit and herbs, alongside prunes, sweet rounded oak and subtle renewable energy and Kosher certified. more exotic spices. It’s described as a toffee, leading to a long, crisp finish. It has aromas of nuts and caramel with ‘botanical rum’ thanks to the use of Grenada Bay Cherry intense vanilla and spices on the palate vapour distillation. Aromas of bright citrus and a long, smooth finish. 44% ABV, 700ml RRP $154.99 and clean herbal top notes from bay leaf Grenada Bay and mairehau lead to a complex palate Matusalem Gran Reserva 23 The team at Wellington’s Grenada Bay of baking spice, subtle heat and green 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $120 distillery blend their premium rum with Thirsty Camel pepper (courtesy of the horopito) that Central Otago cherries and mature it in This premium offering from Matusalem mellows into a warm earthiness and rich ex-Pinot Noir French oak barrels. During has subtle aromas of dried fruit, fresh molasses finish where the quality of the ageing, they roll and rest the barrels to honey and a floral hint over a sweet toffee base rum shines through. replicate the movement of a sea voyage, base with notes of mango and exotic creating a velvety, luscious rum bursting wood. The palate is creamy with liquorice, Angostura 1824 with ripe cherry flavour. 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $129.99 RRP $90 - $124.99 Bayou Mardis Gras XO Plantation XO 20th Anniversary roasted almond, hazelnut and dried fruit. Federal Merchants Lunatic & Lover Barrel Rested Single Batch Barbados A sherry-like finish. A blend of rums aged in charred 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $109.99 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $110 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $155 Grenada Bay Golden Rum Tickety-Boo Proof & Co American oak bourbon barrels for a Lunatic & Lover Diplomático Distillery Collection 44% ABV, 700ml RRP $93.99 minimum of 12 years then hand-picked Grenada Bay This Louisiana rum is matured in bourbon The 20th Anniversary bottling of XO No.3 Pot Still The Lunatic & Lover Silver rum is aged by House of Angostura’s Master Blender six months in oak for this Barrel Rested This rum from Wellington distillery barrels for up to six years using the Solera rum from Barbados is aged in bourbon 47% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA Whisky Galore from selected casks. These rums are then expression, which won the Trophy for Best Grenada Bay is aged in oak barrels and is ageing method and then partially finished barrels before being shipped to France Ageing for eight years in new American hand-blended and re-casked before being NZ Rum at the NZ Spirits Awards 2021. smooth on the palate with hints of smoky in sherry barrels. Aromas of dried dark for a secondary maturation in Ferrand oak, ex-bourbon and ex-single malts hand-drawn, filtered and bottled. The The oak melds a sweet and woody vanilla sweetness. The distinctive bottle is sealed fruit and cedar wood lead to a complex Cognac casks. It has hints of spicy oak barrels has developed aromas of red and 1824 has rich aromas of vanilla, honey aroma with the rum’s orange top notes. with organic beeswax. palate of orange marmalade and dark on the nose, with guava, coconut and stone fruit with blackcurrant and honey. A dried banana. On the palate it is spiced tropical fruits with underlying notes of and warming spice followed by a long The herbal element of the Silver remains, toffee and vanilla. Balanced and well- complex finish. Serve as a sipping rum. but is more subdued and integrated with Mount Gay XO New Edition long, dry finish with black pepper, sherry and creamy, with sweet vanilla notes and 37.5% ABV, 700ml RRP $94.99 and hints of smoke. caramel. Finishes with notes of caramel structured on the palate, where wood the spice notes from the heavy barrel char. Hancocks and toasted oak. flavours combine with coffee and dark Deep, rich coffee and chocolate work with A triple cask bend with an ageing scope El Dorado Special Reserve 15YO chocolate notes. Ends with a deep and the tannins from the wood to dominate wider than the current release rum, to 43% ABV, 700ml RRP $109.99 Goslings 151 Overproof lingering finish. the finish. Tickety-Boo allow for a wider palette of aromas and 75.5% ABV, 700ml RRP $114 Federal Merchants flavours. Round and complex with notes A cognac-like rum with a complex nose of salted caramel, baked fig, clove and of dark coffee, candied orange, almonds, This overproof version of Goslings dark chocolate. dark chocolate, pepper and rich vanilla. original Black Seal rum is described as Angostura 1787 is a super-premium rum It’s silky and rounded on the palate, “muscular, but refined.” Clocking in at Santísima Trinidad 15YO with flavours of grilled tropical fruit and 75.5% ABV (The ‘151’ refers to the US made from a blend of rums aged for a 40.7% ABV, 700ml RRP $99.99 smooth, oaky spice. proof strength), it’s designed to enhance Tickety-Boo mixed drinks as opposed to serving neat; minimum of 15 years. An intense woody aroma with Brugal 1888 or its makers also suggest using it for caramelised, toasty character and 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $110 flambéing desserts. Hancocks prunes and raisins, alongside a slightly sweet fragrance. Complex flavours of A double-aged rum that rests first in Don Papa 10YO wood, almond and walnut leading to a ex-bourbon American oak casks, followed 43% ABV, 700ml RRP $119.99 Glengarry Spirits long finish. by a second maturation in ex-sherry Spanish oak casks. On the nose there are This is a dark, intense rum thanks to red and dried fruits, a spicy woodiness the Filipino rum making tradition of not and hints of cinnamon. It’s well-rounded refilling casks after evaporation. It has rich and smooth on the palate with toffee, aromas and a palate of dried fruit, cacao vanilla, peach, cocoa and cloves. Long- and a hint of oak. lasting finish with a hint of honey.

78 DRINKSBIZ AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2021 DRINKSBIZ AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2021 79 SPIRITS REPORT – RUM

Waiheke Imperial Rum 2019 Mount Gay Rum 1703 Old Cask Black Tot 50th Anniversary 38% ABV, 1L RRP $155 Master Selection 54.5% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA Waiheke Imperial 43% ABV, 700ml RRP $199 Whisky Galore This limited-edition rum (only 500 litres Hancocks This bottling celebrates the 50th were produced) is smooth and spiced The 1703 Master Select is a blend of anniversary of Black Tot Day – (31 July with vanilla, cinnamon and ginger. copper column and copper pot rums from 1970) when the last rum ration was Floral aromas develop into long notes Mount Gay’s oldest reserves – ranging issued aboard ships of the British Royal of cinnamon, ginger biscuit, walnut and from 10 to 30-year-old rums – created Navy, ending a 300-year-old tradition. manuka honey. and hand-picked by Master Blender Allen The release of just 5000 bottles marries Smith. Due to the scarcity of Mount Gay’s rums from Jamaica, Barbados, Guyana, El Dorado Special Reserve 21YO most mature casks, the company releases and Trinidad. It has aromas of warm 43% ABV, 700ml RRP $169.99 just one batch annually. This rum has cinnamon and nutmeg, caramel, apple Tickety-Boo aromas of oak and caramel, balanced, and a hint of citrus with chocolate raisins Described as being for “true rum rounded flavours of caramel, spice and and freshly ground coffee. In the mouth connoisseurs”, this 21-year-old rum has a toast, with a delicate finish. there’s intense liquorice and vanilla bean nose of lush tropical fruit and spice with paste, leading to lime, dark chocolate and hints of honey and dark sugar. A round, brandy-poached pears. The finish is long mellow, full-bodied palate with rich and lingering. flavours of fruit and spice. New arrival Goslings Old Diplomático Ambassador Goslings Old Family Reserve Family Reserve is aged Selection 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $169.99 47% ABV, 700ml RRP $POA Federal Merchants 16-19 years in charred Whisky Galore The ultimate ‘after dinner’ rum. This oak barrels to make the The ‘Ambassador’ is the flagship rum of expression is crafted from the same Venezuelan distillery Diplomático, created Bermuda blend as Black Seal, then aged ultimate ‘after dinner’ rum. by Tito Cordero, the 2011 Golden Barrel for 16-19 years in charred oak barrels. Awards Master Rum Blender of the Year. It has a complex nose with leather, After long maturation in ex-bourbon chocolate and a hint of pepper, and a barrels, the spirit is transferred to Spanish smooth and elegant taste with traces of Flor de Caña 25 YO PX sherry casks for two years. The result is smoke, vanilla and cigar box. Each black 40% ABV, 700ml RRP $220 a rich and luscious rum with notes of dried bottle is hand-filled, hand-labelled and Hancocks fruits with big toffee, banana and sweet numbered, then stopped with a cork A full-bodied rum with aromas of vanilla, spice flavours. and covered in sealing wax – the same wood and dark cocoa. There are fruity way the Gosling family first bottled their notes of almond and nuts on the palate, Bermuda rums in the early 1900s. with a full and long finish that lingers.

For distributor details see the Distributor Index on page 92.

80 DRINKSBIZ AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2021 Distributed by Federal Merchants & Co | federalmerchants.co.nz | 09 578 1823