Goslings Family Reserve Old Rum

Nice long finish with a hit of vanilla's bitterness to keep the sweetness in check. Similar to Diplomatico Reserva in sweetness and smoothness, but this is punchier, though less complex. Unfortunately it's more expensive, so it's a worse value. This is more bourbon and vanilla forward -- drinks closer to a cask strength due to intensity, though still perfectly smooth. Darker than Appleton, Plantation XO, or Zacapa 23.

You have to be ready for this one or you’ll be disappointed. Full disclosure: almost a pure bourbon drinker when making this assessment. Packaging is awesome and wax seal is always intriguing...cool bottle to have on your shelf! Super dark color, wide/slow legs. Smell of dates, cinnamon, spice, and oak. You can tell this will be sweet and thick. Viscous feel. Some smoke, some spice...a bit of raisin or dark fruit, maybe some of that date, but WAYYY sweeter and way more fruitful than the whiskeys than I’m used too. Long finish that definitely has a cigar linger or a tobacco note. Good for a change of pace. Long sipper. I can appreciate it, but not my style right now.

Oh that's smooth and rich and delicious. Not a lot of rums out there worth drinking neat and slowly. This is one of them!

Strong, punch-you-in-the-face flavor. Smooth, with very little burn. Slight vanilla note. Bitter finish.