Ron Abuelo 12 Años

While I’ve previously left a tasting note for this most excellent rum before...well, it bears doing so again. I discovered this lovely Panamanian rum on my honeymoon; I brought home two bottles, and I’ve enjoyed the contents over the course of my even more delightful marriage. If you are a whiskey drinker and want a rum to show you why fine, aged rum is worth your attention, but also want something different enough from whiskey to expand your palate’s horizons...look no further. The nose is the Caribbean condensed: sugarcane, banana, pineapple, a bit of vanilla and coconut, a light hint of spice. The palate explodes with caramelized banana, grilled pineapple, piloncillo/panela, lime juice, baking spice, and a pleasant woodiness...and it lingers, like the warmth of good memories. So, so good, and at $40-ish a bottle in the US, there is no reason not to try this.