Appleton Estate 21 Year Limited Edition

Smooth, but very complex scent; some Carmel and vanilla tones Heavy oak and smooth in the mouth. No burn on the tongue, but a little in the throat. One of my favorites.

Enjoying a dram from a bottle I purchased in Jamaica circa 1996. It was just over half full when I poured this taste into the glencairn. Yes, you might say I have nursed this bottle. The pour is a polished walnut in color. The nose is maple syrup, vanilla, a bit of molasses, dark cacao. A swirl shows thick sheeting and slow heavy tears. The complexity of this rum is breathtaking. It is sweet and syrupy and approachable and delicious. There are notes of English butter toffee, maple syrup, figs, barrel wood, and vanilla. It's simply lovely. This is a perfect dram. I have no idea what a 21-year-old Appleton Estate tastes like circa 2020, but this one from the past is utterly spectacular. I am going to have to buy a new bottle to prepare myself for the inevitable day when this bottle will give up its final drop. I can only hope the new product is as good. I can't imagine how it would be better.

AE 21 is one of my preferred and most liked rums. I appreciate the regulations in Jamaica to bring a pure rum. Dark chocolate, leather and sweet smooth drink. The finish is superb. A little pricey, but very available.