Notes: Distilled in copper pot stills, then aged in oak casks and bottled at 12 years of age. This rum is part of a series, the others being theDiplomatico Anejo and Diplomatico Reserva.

Appearance: Substantially darker than its brethren, it is a patinated bronze and could be mistaken for a well aged cognac or bourbon, till you smell the bouquet. Copper gold color clear with no hazing separation or floating sediments. Long legs develop on swirling.

First Impression: Heavy redolent smell of caramelized molasses, dark dried fruits, (dates,figs,etc.,) allspice, cinnamon, ripe fruits and nuts. Slightly aromatic esters make it just a touch below perfect but overall it makes me want to drink it AND wear it (by intent rather than accident that is).

Taste: Spicy, medium-to-heavy mouth feel, buttery, fruity and spicy all at the same time, slight touch of sulfur and tobacco notes lets you know it is a molasses rather than a cane rum. Nutty, spicy, finish is long, but subtle. Slightly dry nutty finish with sweetness rather than a nasty sweet cloying that some rums have. Very gentlemanly, balanced, and of course diplomatic. Only negative point is the slightly harsh high ester smell and taste I mentioned before.

Drinks: Damn nice mixing rum and cheap enough to use and not worry about wasting it. Complex for its age and spicy enough to stand up to other ingredients.

Cigars: A good Dominican like a Avo, Opus X, or a spicy Cuban if you can find one.

Bottle/Packaging: Bell shaped satin frosted green glass with parchment like paper label that looks like a postal or customs stamp and black neck wrap.

Final Thoughts: Pretty amazing stuff especially for the price. Try buying a 13 year old rum (or almost any other spirit for that matter) for $30 with this quality. Yes, there are better rums out there – but for a lot more money.

Web site:  http://www.dusa.com.ve

Alas, English version does not work. If you can read Spanish, it is quick loading, and somewhat informative. Easy-to-read and navigate.