Tastes

To my palate, a bit more interesting than the very solid 8 year, at least for sipping, ….probably because of the second maturation in the sherry casks. Lighter and fruitier. Like the 8 and 12 year old Doorly’s, a tremendous value given the high quality of the liquid and price points.

Oaky with caramel, and vanilla (and maybe some red fruit) underneath. Not very sweet. A consistent, high quality and predictable, if not complex, drinking experience. Can be sipped and, IMO, is better in a rum Old Fashioned.

Vanilla, caramel, mild to moderate spices and wood. Honey on the finish. Vegetal undertones are light. A very pleasant sipper.

Very easy to sip. Subtle nose and flavor. Soft. Notes of cocoa powder with baking spices in the background. Then butterscotch.

Very soft and light. Very pleasant, although not very complex.

Just picked this bottle up at the nearby Total Wine and More. Initial impressions: strong baking spice aroma, with less prominent vanilla and oak. Creamy vanilla in the mouth, and spices. Fruity finish and a slight, lingering burn.

I’m a long time drinker and fan of ED15; ....finally bought the 12 and have enjoyed it thus far. A bit softer and sweeter than the 15; ....less oaky and (bitter) chocolatey. Full bodied and the character changes as you progress through the glass, but not quite as dense and complex as the 15. Overall, I like this one a lot thus far. On par with the 15.

Lots of vanilla and baked fruit (or is it char?). Easy and enjoyable to sip as a desert spirit, although not full bodied or complex like El Dorado 15 or the premium Barbados rums.

I get strong molasses and brown sugar on the nose, with a healthy (but not overpowering) earthiness. Brown sugar taste, moderate body, some burn. Can taste some of the barrel. Doesn’t taste as “finished” as the 15 year, but also doesn’t seem to have as much added sugar. A great value rum for sipping.

Fruity nose, orange with cinnamon/baking spices. Medium bodied. Bitter chocolate with some banana and oak, moderate lasting finish with slight burn. Good sipper.