Cruzan 151 Rum

Best overproofed liquor I've had. Traditional gold rum profile with a nice warm burn

For the price, you could do much worse. I have to thank the brother in law for the opportunity (that I hadn’t realized I wanted), but figured I’d record a few tasting notes since I was getting my arm twisted anyway. Yay Thanksgiving. Compared to (the now defunct, thankfully) ubiquitous Bacardi 151, there is no comparison. Whereas I recall the Puerto Rican offering as 100% vile rubbing alcohol, this offers a number of redeeming qualities, despite the proof. Sipping neat because I refuse to shoot it. High proof rum, no doubt about it. Nose isn’t a too bad (or particularly enlightening), but not oppressive. Sweet toffee and butter on the palate. Loads of butter. Butter for days. Pretty impressive really. The proof takes over rather quickly on successive sips, so eventually hard to differentiate, but there is pretty decent flavor overall. Seems like it’s gently dosed but really hard to suss out the details. Either way, could do worse if you need an overproof option.

Not surprised but very sharp alcohol on the nose with almond, vanilla and spicy hints. To be fair, we should all know, this is not a sipper. It’s in a special class. However, pronounced alcohol burn with light brown sugar sweetness, vanilla and oak and a little earthy-nuttiness in the mouth. Great for tiki floats but I use it for seasonal fruit liqueur infusions, most summers. Keeps the ABV from getting too low and makes quick work of the maceration process. I just blend it with mellower counter parts. Usually the only 151 overproof spirit other than Everclear on the shelf but this adds a little bit of flavor and is grain free. Also tends to go on sale during the summer months.