Nose - rich molasses, butterscotch, allspice, grape, raisin toast, clove, cherry, plum, fig, earthy mint, vanilla, chocolate, coffee, orange, overripe banana, leather, strong oak, moderate ethanol burn. Taste - butterscotch, molasses, sweet floral notes, vanilla, raisin, dark chocolate, grape, burnt brown sugar, cherry, allspice, toast, leather, tobacco, plum, orange, demerara syrup, mild to moderate alcohol bite, finishing medium long with rich molasses, butterscotch, grape, and baking spice flavors. I liked the 8 Year. Will I love the 21? The nose is rather surprising. It’s deep and complex, but not as dark as the 8 Year’s. Actually, it’s very reminiscent of a Cognac. Along with the molasses and butterscotch, there are pronounced grape, baking spice, and boozy chocolate orange aromas. The palate has more of that boozy chocolate, some burnt brown sugar, and a hearty dose of dark dried fruits. Well I definitely like this better than the 8 Year. It’s obviously older, although I wouldn’t say it strikes me as a particularly mature 21 year old rum. There’s a nice buttery oiliness to the mouthfeel that lingers into a rather pleasant Armagnac-like finish. Similar to some brandies though, there’s also a slight, unwelcome sourness to the palate that I wish weren’t as prominent. Nonetheless, this is great rum and one I’d happily sip any day. A big thank you to @ContemplativeFox for providing the generous sample!