A decent rum for the money, especially for the price/class.
Notes: A blend of rums, some that are distilled on the estate in copper pot stills (of a shape and design particular to Jamaica) and some column still- then aged slightly in oak casks,carbon filtered, then bottled. Part of the increasing portfolio of Appleton Estate Rums which include Appleton Special, Appleton Extra, Appleton Reserve, Appleton VX and Appleton 21.
Appearance: Clear with no hazing, separation or floating sediments. Long legs develop on swirling.
First Impression: Crisp, citrusy, honeyed bananas, vanilla beans. Slight off/varnish notes after a while.
Taste: Medium weight body, sweetish but crisp mixed anise, toffee. Vanilla notes at the finish with a molasses/slight sulfur lingering tang and licorice. Finish is medium length.
Cigars: You need a light to medium cigar for this one. La Flor de Dominica, Griffin, or Montecristo would be safe bets.
Bottle/Packaging: Clear glass with sloped shoulder,”Since 1749” pressed into the shoulder, silvered paper label with simple graphics with typical layout for a island rum label. Silver neck wrp with black lettering and screw cap closure.
Final Thoughts: A decent rum for the money, especially for the price/class. Most of the rum under $15 will make you feel like you went blind sometime during the night – or wished you had- this is not one of them. One of the better economy white rums. Honest, straightforward, and better than Bacardi, for less money. A solid choice for a white rum.
Website: http://www.appletonrumus.com
After the tedious (and pointless, I think) age verification, it is quick-loading, and somewhat informative. Easy-to-read and navigate.