Don Q Signature Release Single Barrel 2005

Initially it’s just sweet ethanol on the nose, it never really goes away, but subsides enough for light tropical fruits, vanilla, caramel and charred oak notes to poke through. It’s actually quite pleasant. Light bodied, slightly creamy and semisweet on the palate with vanilla prominently on display, also some barrel spice, oak and light caramel. I know it’s rum, but could almost be fooled into thinking it’s a light whiskey. Finish is lengthier than expected, sides of my tongue are numbed, a somewhat bittersweet, caramel, oakiness resided on the center of my tongue for minutes.

Bit too sweet, but nice

This was an great rum. I had it a few years back before I learned how to appreciate good spirits more. Sadly it’s gone, but I have the 2007 waiting in queue. The flavor were good, but if you have the opportunity to try one of Don Qs Double or Aged casks releases, give it a try. Bouts the Vermouth and Sherry are very good.

Well rounded, oaky. Complex and interesting palette.

This rum to me is an argument for the importance of the rum maestro. This one note dry rum with a fair amount of heat could be a key ingredient to a great blend. As it is, a really a good cocktail rum, but not a sipper.