Rum has been gaining momentum in the spirits world over the last few years. No longer just a base for sugary cocktails, rum is now being appreciated for its craftsmanship and heritage. Like tequila, rum is experiencing a renaissance as drinkers explore the complexities and flavors of different varieties. This surge in interest has led to an increase in demand for premium and super premium rums.
The San Francisco World Spirit Competition
The San Francisco World Spirit Competition (SFWSC) has recently announced the finalists for its Best in Class Rum Awards. Described as the “Oscars of the spirit world,” the SFWSC shines a spotlight on the finest spirits from around the globe. The blind taste-testing panel of industry experts rigorously evaluates each bottle, awarding bronze, silver, gold, and double gold medals. Making it to the finalist list is a significant achievement and indicates a rum worth seeking out.
Top-Rated Rums to Try
Among the finalists at the SFWSC are some exceptional rums that have been recognized for their quality and flavor profiles. These rums represent the pinnacle of the category and are definitely worth adding to your collection.
Saltwater’s Crew Only 8-Year-Old Rum
Coming from Germany, Saltwater’s Crew Only 8-Year-Old Rum is a standout in the global rum scene. Made from a blend of rums from Trinidad, Panama, Nicaragua, Jamaica, and Spain, it offers tasting notes of caramel, toffee, molasses, and leather. Despite its high quality, it is reasonably priced at $33, making it an accessible option for rum enthusiasts.
Zacapa XO
Based in Guatemala, Zacapa Distillery is renowned for producing exceptional rums. Zacapa XO stands out for its use of virgin sugar cane honey in the aging process, resulting in a smooth and sweet flavor profile. Aged between 10 and 25 years in various barrels before finishing in French cognac barrels, this rum is rich and complex. Priced at $119, it is a luxurious addition to any rum collection.
Flor de Cana 18
With over a century of experience, Flor de Cana from Nicaragua has consistently impressed critics and rum lovers alike. The Flor de Cana 18 undergoes a meticulous aging process that imparts unique flavors of butterscotch, raisin, honey, cinnamon, nutmeg, and orange peel. Priced at $58, this rum offers a depth and complexity that is unmatched.
Mount Gay Single Estate Series
As one of the oldest rum distilleries in the world, Mount Gay has a rich history of crafting exceptional rums. The Mount Gay Single Estate Series is a limited-release bottling made entirely from pot still rum and aged in Bourbon and American Oak casks. Priced at $400, this rum balances sweet and spicy flavors beautifully, showcasing the terroir of Barbados.
The ImpEx Collection 2007 15 YO Long Pond Rum Cask
Importing premium and rare spirits from around the world, ImpEx has established itself as a purveyor of high-quality products. The 2007 15-Year-Old Long Pond Rum Cask is a Jamaican rum aged for fifteen years, offering tropical flavors of bananas, molasses, oak, and vanilla. Priced at $120, this rum is a testament to the art of rum-making.
Overall, the resurgence of rum in the spirits world is evident through the exceptional quality and variety of rums available today. Whether you are a seasoned rum enthusiast or a newcomer to the category, exploring these top-rated rums is a delicious journey worth embarking on.
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