Ash Fine Cigars in Hoboken, NJ announced via Instagram this morning that they now carry the Alec Bradley “Filthy Hooligan,” a variation of the Alec Bradley Black Market that features a bright green candela wrapper. As the marketing strongly suggests, this cigar was created exclusively for St. Patties Day festivities.
From what I can tell through my work with Ivan Grullon (shop owner), his industry connections have allowed him to receive these cigars much more quickly than most shops in the city.
Ash Fine Cigars is located at 203 Washington St. in Hoboken, NJ. If you haven’t been by already, I strongly recommend dropping by. The selection is great, and the prices are significantly below any you will find across the river in the city.
Michael Herklots announced via his blog yesterday that Nat Sherman will be hosting a limited attendance cigar event at the Nat Sherman Townhouse in honor of the recent #10 ranking of the Nat Sherman Timeless (Nicaraguan blend). The cost is $50, but if you’ve ever been to a Nat Sherman event, you know that Herklots knows what he’s doing and he always makes the ticket price well worth it.
“Please join us at the Nat Sherman Townhouse on Wednesday, March 6, 2013, from 7:30-9:30pm. Admission is $50 per person. Attendence is EXTREMELY limited. Tickets must be purchased in advance and are non-refundable. Call 646-442-1850 for more information.”
The makers of Wild Turkey are out to control the high-end bourbon market by releasing Russell’s Reserve Single Barrel. This bourbon whiskey is non-chilled in the production process, which theoretically will enhance the flavor of the bourbon. This new expression is also unique in that it carries a 110-proof label, which is significantly higher than other expressions of this kind of spirit.
TRUE, UNCOMPROMISING BOURBON FOR TRUE BOURBON LOVERS: INTRODUCING THE FIRST RUSSELL’S RESERVE® SINGLE BARREL
LAWRENCEBURG, KY (February 20th, 2013) – When it comes to whiskey making in the United States, Jimmy Russell and his son Eddie are America’s bourbon aristocracy. After an incredible 90 years combined experience distilling award-winning whiskey, the two are rolling out one of their richest and most flavorful bourbons to date: Russell’s Reserve® Single Barrel Straight Kentucky Bourbon Whiskey. This much anticipated bottling at a take-no-prisoners 110 proof is nonchill filtered, resulting in an unparalleled burst of flavor in every sip. As the crowning glory of America’s famed Wild Turkey bourbon family, Russell’s Reserve Single Barrel promises to not only be the choice for bourbon connoisseurs, but it will also be what Jimmy and Eddie reach for time and time again. As they say in Lawrenceburg, “Our experience guarantees yours.”
What makes Russell’s Reserve Single Barrel unique is not only its high proof, but the fact that the whiskey bypasses the chill-filtration process. Chill-filtration is a common process whereby the whiskey is chilled at temperatures below freezing and is passed through an absorption filter thus removing fatty acids and other flavor contributors such as esters and proteins. By avoiding the chill-filtration process, the whiskey is bottled with more flavor compounds and a deeper color which is denoted by an impressive haze when ice or chilled water is added.
Every expression of Russell’s Reserve – both the Bourbon and rye Whiskey – is matured in only the deepest number 4 or “alligator” charred American white oak barrels to ensure the richest flavor and color. Jimmy and Eddie insist on this char level and are among only a handful of whiskey distillers who use it. The best aged whiskey barrels are hand selected by this legendary pair themselves and only from the center cut of the rick house – since that’s where the optimal maturation occurs. Adamant about quality, the Russell’s will only use the natural, weather-driven process for maturation – never air conditioned or heated “because it’s the right thing to do.”
“This is Bourbon at its best,” declares Jimmy Russell, Master Distiller. “What is incredibly special about the Russell’s Reserve Single Barrel is that each barrel has its own personality, but still captures the rich, creamy toffee vanilla style of Russell’s Reserve. This bottling celebrates what we love about Russell’s Reserve, but takes it to another level.” Russell’s Reserve Single Barrel delivers a burst of intense vanilla and hints of burnt orange, along with tastes licorice and anise seed, on the palate, culminating with a rich and long finish.
Russell’s Reserve Single Barrel (750ml) will be available nationwide at specialist liquor stores priced at $49.99. It will also be available in select bars and restaurants specializing in fine whiskies.
About Russell’s Reserve
Master Distiller, Jimmy Russell has been making bourbon in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky for more than 58 years and has joined the ranks of the greats when it comes to his uncompromising craftsmanship. Working alongside him is his son, Associate Master Distiller, Eddie, a relative newcomer with 32 years under his belt. Together they create the acclaimed Russell’s Reserve 10 Years Old small batch Kentucky straight bourbon and 6 Years Old Rye. Jimmy has worked at the distillery since 1954 and his devotion to his whiskey making runs in the family blood. His grandfather worked in the distilling business, as did his father before him. His son Eddie Russell now follows in his footsteps. Russell’s Reserve is testimony to the uncompromising approach that comes with over 90 years of combined experience.
About Campari America
Campari America is a wholly owned subsidiary of Davide Campari-Milano S.p.A. (Reuters CPRI.MI – Bloomberg CPR IM). At the heart of Campari America are two legends in the American spirits industry. The first, Skyy Spirits, was founded in San Francisco back in 1992 by the entrepreneur who invented iconic SKYY Vodka. The second is the world-famous Wild Turkey Distillery in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, where they have been making the world’s finest whiskies since the 1800’s. Both companies were purchased by Davide Campari-Milano and together they form Campari America, which has built a portfolio unrivaled in its quality, innovation and style, making it a top choice among distributors, retailers and consumers. Campari America manages Gruppo Campari’s portfolio in the US with such leading brands as SKYY® Vodka, SKYY Infusions®, Campari®, Wild Turkey® Straight Kentucky Bourbon, American Honey®, Russell’s Reserve®, Glen Grant® Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Cabo Wabo® Tequila, Espolón® Tequila, Ouzo 12®, X-Rated® Fusion Liqueur®, Frangelico®, Cynar®, Carolans Irish Cream®, Irish Mist® Liqueur, Sagatiba® Cachaça and Jean-Marc XO Vodka®. Campari America is also the exclusive US distributor of Bowmore® Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Auchentoshan® Lowland Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Glen Garioch® Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky, McClelland’s® Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Flor de Caña® Rum, Midori® Melon Liqueur, Hibiki® Whisky, Hakushu® Single Malt Whisky, and The Yamazaki® Single Malt Whisky. Campari America is headquartered in San Francisco, California. More information on the company can be found at www.campariamerica.com, www.facebook.com/campariamerica, Twitter: @CampariAmerica and www.camparigroup.com. Please enjoy Campari America brands responsibly and in moderation. About Gruppo Campari Davide Campari-Milano S.p.A., together with its affiliates (‘Gruppo Campari’), is a major player in the global beverage sector, trading in over 190 nations around the world with leading positions in Europe and the Americas. The Group was founded in 1860 and today is the sixth-largest player worldwide in the premium spirits industry. The Group’s portfolio, with over 50 brands, span spirits, the core business, wines and soft drinks. Internationally-renowned brands include Aperol, Appleton, Campari, Cinzano, SKYY Vodka and Wild Turkey. Headquartered in Sesto San Giovanni, Italy, Campari owns 14 plants and 4 wineries worldwide and has its own distribution network in 16 countries. The Group employs over 4,000 people. The shares of the parent company, Davide Campari-Milano S.p.A. (Reuters CPRI.MI – Bloomberg CPR IM), are listed on the Italian Stock Exchange since 2001. For more information: www.camparigroup.com
TRUE, UNCOMPROMISING BOURBON FOR TRUE BOURBON LOVERS: INTRODUCING THE FIRST RUSSELL’S RESERVE® SINGLE BARREL
LAWRENCEBURG, KY (February 20th, 2013) – When it comes to whiskey making in the United States, Jimmy Russell and his son Eddie are America’s bourbon aristocracy. After an incredible 90 years combined experience distilling award-winning whiskey, the two are rolling out one of their richest and most flavorful bourbons to date: Russell’s Reserve® Single Barrel Straight Kentucky Bourbon Whiskey. This much anticipated bottling at a take-no-prisoners 110 proof is nonchill filtered, resulting in an unparalleled burst of flavor in every sip. As the crowning glory of America’s famed Wild Turkey bourbon family, Russell’s Reserve Single Barrel promises to not only be the choice for bourbon connoisseurs, but it will also be what Jimmy and Eddie reach for time and time again. As they say in Lawrenceburg, “Our experience guarantees yours.”
What makes Russell’s Reserve Single Barrel unique is not only its high proof, but the fact that the whiskey bypasses the chill-filtration process. Chill-filtration is a common process whereby the whiskey is chilled at temperatures below freezing and is passed through an absorption filter thus removing fatty acids and other flavor contributors such as esters and proteins. By avoiding the chill-filtration process, the whiskey is bottled with more flavor compounds and a deeper color which is denoted by an impressive haze when ice or chilled water is added.
Every expression of Russell’s Reserve – both the Bourbon and rye Whiskey – is matured in only the deepest number 4 or “alligator” charred American white oak barrels to ensure the richest flavor and color. Jimmy and Eddie insist on this char level and are among only a handful of whiskey distillers who use it. The best aged whiskey barrels are hand selected by this legendary pair themselves and only from the center cut of the rick house – since that’s where the optimal maturation occurs. Adamant about quality, the Russell’s will only use the natural, weather-driven process for maturation – never air conditioned or heated “because it’s the right thing to do.”
“This is Bourbon at its best,” declares Jimmy Russell, Master Distiller. “What is incredibly special about the Russell’s Reserve Single Barrel is that each barrel has its own personality, but still captures the rich, creamy toffee vanilla style of Russell’s Reserve. This bottling celebrates what we love about Russell’s Reserve, but takes it to another level.” Russell’s Reserve Single Barrel delivers a burst of intense vanilla and hints of burnt orange, along with tastes licorice and anise seed, on the palate, culminating with a rich and long finish.
Russell’s Reserve Single Barrel (750ml) will be available nationwide at specialist liquor stores priced at $49.99. It will also be available in select bars and restaurants specializing in fine whiskies.
About Russell’s Reserve
Master Distiller, Jimmy Russell has been making bourbon in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky for more than 58 years and has joined the ranks of the greats when it comes to his uncompromising craftsmanship. Working alongside him is his son, Associate Master Distiller, Eddie, a relative newcomer with 32 years under his belt. Together they create the acclaimed Russell’s Reserve 10 Years Old small batch Kentucky straight bourbon and 6 Years Old Rye. Jimmy has worked at the distillery since 1954 and his devotion to his whiskey making runs in the family blood. His grandfather worked in the distilling business, as did his father before him. His son Eddie Russell now follows in his footsteps. Russell’s Reserve is testimony to the uncompromising approach that comes with over 90 years of combined experience.
About Campari America
Campari America is a wholly owned subsidiary of Davide Campari-Milano S.p.A. (Reuters CPRI.MI – Bloomberg CPR IM). At the heart of Campari America are two legends in the American spirits industry. The first, Skyy Spirits, was founded in San Francisco back in 1992 by the entrepreneur who invented iconic SKYY Vodka. The second is the world-famous Wild Turkey Distillery in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, where they have been making the world’s finest whiskies since the 1800’s. Both companies were purchased by Davide Campari-Milano and together they form Campari America, which has built a portfolio unrivaled in its quality, innovation and style, making it a top choice among distributors, retailers and consumers. Campari America manages Gruppo Campari’s portfolio in the US with such leading brands as SKYY® Vodka, SKYY Infusions®, Campari®, Wild Turkey® Straight Kentucky Bourbon, American Honey®, Russell’s Reserve®, Glen Grant® Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Cabo Wabo® Tequila, Espolón® Tequila, Ouzo 12®, X-Rated® Fusion Liqueur®, Frangelico®, Cynar®, Carolans Irish Cream®, Irish Mist® Liqueur, Sagatiba® Cachaça and Jean-Marc XO Vodka®. Campari America is also the exclusive US distributor of Bowmore® Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Auchentoshan® Lowland Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Glen Garioch® Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky, McClelland’s® Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Flor de Caña® Rum, Midori® Melon Liqueur, Hibiki® Whisky, Hakushu® Single Malt Whisky, and The Yamazaki® Single Malt Whisky. Campari America is headquartered in San Francisco, California. More information on the company can be found at www.campariamerica.com, www.facebook.com/campariamerica, Twitter: @CampariAmerica and www.camparigroup.com. Please enjoy Campari America brands responsibly and in moderation. About Gruppo Campari Davide Campari-Milano S.p.A., together with its affiliates (‘Gruppo Campari’), is a major player in the global beverage sector, trading in over 190 nations around the world with leading positions in Europe and the Americas. The Group was founded in 1860 and today is the sixth-largest player worldwide in the premium spirits industry. The Group’s portfolio, with over 50 brands, span spirits, the core business, wines and soft drinks. Internationally-renowned brands include Aperol, Appleton, Campari, Cinzano, SKYY Vodka and Wild Turkey. Headquartered in Sesto San Giovanni, Italy, Campari owns 14 plants and 4 wineries worldwide and has its own distribution network in 16 countries. The Group employs over 4,000 people. The shares of the parent company, Davide Campari-Milano S.p.A. (Reuters CPRI.MI – Bloomberg CPR IM), are listed on the Italian Stock Exchange since 2001. For more information: www.camparigroup.com
Midleton announced via press release last week the release of a new single-cask whiskey expression. It should be noted that each bottling is matured in aged and charred bourbon barrels, which we anticipate will add an enjoyable complexity to the drink. The bottles used for the new expression resemble the bottle of the Midleton Very Rare whiskey, the most exclusive product coming from Midleton.
MIDLETON LAUNCHES EXCLUSIVE SINGLE POT STILL SINGLE CASK WHISKEYS
Irish Distillers Ltd has reinforced its commitment to rejuvenating the Single Pot Still whiskey style with the release of ten exclusive Single Pot Still single cask whiskeys under the celebrated Midleton brand.
The new expressions highlight the complexity, elegance and balance associated with the Midleton range and have been released exclusively to key accounts in Ireland, France, Germany and the UK.
The new releases follow the launch of Irish Distillers Ltd’s first Single Pot Still single cask customer exclusive at the Celtic Whisky Shop, in November 2010, which saw the retailer sell out of its limited bottle. This success has led Irish Distillers Ltd to extend the initiative to six retailers across Europe and now also includes James Fox Cigar and Whiskey Store, Dublin Airport, La Maison du Whisky, Irisch Lifestyle and The Whisky Exchange. Each retailer is offering their customers between one and three expressions bearing the name of the retailer, the cask number and the Midleton brand name.
Each bottling has been matured in ex-bourbon casks, true to the Midleton style, which have been charred and seasoned with bourbon. The individual casks, which were laid down between 1991 and 1999, have yielded, on average, 185 bottles – making the range highly collectable. Each expression is presented in a premium bottle, following the same design cues as Midleton Very Rare, the most exclusive whiskey produced at The Midleton Distillery.
Casks #7102 and #53735 are exclusive to La Maison du Whisky in Paris and illustrate the individuality of the Midleton Single Pot Still single cask releases. Bonded in 1999, cask #53735 has a light Single Pot Still style with a nose of delicate spice, perfumed rose petal with a touch of garden mint, while cask #7102, bonded two years earlier, is an example of the heavier Single Pot Still style with a balanced nose of spices, herbs and wood. Each of the ten expressions enjoys a long finish, which is typical of the Midleton range.
Barry Crockett, Master Distiller at Midleton Distillery, says: “The Midleton brand name is synonymous with excellence in craftsmanship and the extension of the Single Pot Still single cask releases has allowed us to further showcase the quality of the Single Pot Still style to whiskey connoisseurs, who eagerly anticipate opportunities to taste Midleton whiskeys. The response to the release of cask #71578 in 2010 was phenomenal, so I anticipate a similar reaction this year and look forward to discussing each cask with Single Pot Still whiskey advocates.”
The Irish whiskey category has experienced a near 8% compound annual growth rate between 2005-2010 and its annual 4.9m case sales is expected to reach 7.9m cases by 2016*. Category growth has been boosted with a resurgence in the popularity of the Single Pot Still Irish whiskey style, led by Irish Distillers Ltd. In 2012, work began on a €200 million expansion of Midleton Distillery, significantly increasing its production capability and capacity.
Irish Distillers Group was formed in 1966, when a merger took place between Irish whiskey distillers John Power & Son, John Jameson & Son and the Cork Distillery Company. In an attempt to reverse the decline in Irish whiskey sales, the board of directors decided to close the existing distilleries in Cork and Dublin, and to consolidate production at a new purpose-built facility.
A site alongside the existing distillery in Midleton, Co. Cork was chosen as the location for the new distillery, as there was no room for expansion in Dublin. Both the Old Jameson Distillery and the Old Midleton Distillery currently operate as visitor centres attracting over 330,000 visitors annually. Following an early unsolicited takeover offer and one of the most protracted battles in Irish corporate history made by GrandMet, Allied-Lyons and Guinness, Irish Distillers Ltd was taken over by Pernod Ricard in June 1988 with the support of the management and employees.
About Midleton Single Pot Still Single Cask Irish Whiskeys
Celtic Whiskey Shop, James Fox Cigar and Whiskey Store, Dublin Airport, La Maison du Whisky, Irisch Lifestyle and The Whisky Exchange are each offering between one and three Midleton single cask Single Pot Still Irish whiskeys to their customers. Each expression bears the Midleton brand name, the name of the retailer, the cask number, the date of bonding and the warehouse reference number.
Our friends over at Pedro Martin Cigars have announced the release of their new smart-phone app. The app will allow users to learn more about Pedro Martin cigars, find retail locations, and get news about Martin Family cigars.
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February 21, 2013 (Gilbert, Ariz.) — Itxtdeals, a leader in SMS Text message marketing and Smartphone app developing, has been chosen to create the Pedro Martin Cigars Mobile App available today on both Android and IOS platforms.
Pedro Martin Cigars is releasing two new cigars this year: the Casa Martin and the Limited Pedro Martin. “This year is very special,” Maria Martin said, with her father Pedro Martin being recognized at the No Joke Smoke 2013 in Hawaii during its event titled “Remembering the Legends”.
Pedro Martin Cigars has brought “the spirit of the old world together with the strength of the new world” joining in the mobile arena was a natural progression to its marketing platform. The App allows its users to learn about each Pedro Martin Cigar, and it allows the user to find a retail location and keep up with social media.
Pedro Martin passed away in 2010 at the age of 81, but his legacy lives on in the cigars that bear his name and the woman who makes them. Today, Martin Family of Cigars is run by his daughter Maria Martin, an accomplished cigar maker in her own right who learned her craft at her father’s side and inherited both his skill as a master blender and his uncompromising standards of quality.
Maria Martin mentioned how it is an honor to be one of the few women in the cigar industry, however she never forgets her father and what he accomplished. Maria has agreed to be a keynote speaker this year at the No Joke Smoke 2013 Event. The event is focused on the pioneers of the cigar industry.
Our friends at La Hoja cigars announced recently via mailing list the launch of Havna Night at Papa Juan Cigar Co. There will be drinks, Hoja de Flores cigars, music, and generally great times for everyone who comes.
The event will be hosted every 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month – so if you miss the first edition, you can always make another. There will also be a Domino double 9 tournament at the event for those interested.
When asked what is my favorite cigar vitola, I usually answer with belicoso. Coming in at 5 ½ x 52-54 this vitola is the same length as a corona but thicker, very similar to a torpedo but without a pointy tip and technically a figurado.
La Duena means female owner and this cigar was blended in part by Janny Garcia daughter of Cigar superstar Don Pepin in conjunction with Pete Johnson (Tatuaje Cigars). For her cigar blending debut Janny chose an interesting marriage of Connecticut Broadleaf wrapper and Connecticut and Nicaraguan Binder and filler. Her brother Jaime Garcia handles production and in like fashion, La Duena joins the My Father family of cigars.
Blend Specifics
Size: 5.5 x 54
Wrapper: Connecticut Broadleaf
Binder: Nicaraguan
Filler: Nicaraguan
Appearance & Construction
Satin matte wrapper leaf with long blotchy discolorations. Some visible veins and very toothy. Not a pretty stick. Simple white and red no frills band gives little information. Pretty straight forward
I use a straight cut, and the pre-light test has a perfect draw which tastes peppery at the tip of the tongue. Rich Nicaraguan tobacco aroma at the foot of the cigar.
Flavor & Smoke Characteristics
This cigar opens with dry cedar taste at the first draw, earthy,musty, sulfur and it progressively gets spicier. Chili Pepper sneaks in and overtakes the palate. At about halfway, flavors are settling with a medium body, rich woody retrohale. I can tell this cigar has a white and razor sharp burn, with ash falling right on the second third mark
By the second third all the flavors come together in harmony. It balances very well with a buttery texture and every taste mentioned in the first still dancing around beautifully. The body becomes richer, with flavor and strength lingering around medium and full for a long finish.
In the final third, the sulfur flavor picks up. Although its not a flavor I enjoy, my cigar burns excellent, which is a sign of good tobacco and great construction. Pepper taste still hanging around but be careful not to pull too hard or the pesky sulfur reveals itself.
Conclusion
Janny’s efforts did not go unnoticed in her debut as a blender even if she did get a little help from Pete Johnson. This cigar is complex with flavors that work together in a package to deliver a tasty treat. My favorite is the second half by far where the flavors mend and flow well. I hope this cigar will be a stepping stone for Janny Garcia and I expect many good things to come in the future from her especially having the bloodline for producing some excellent sticks. Cheers to the future!
I came across Vizcaya VXOP Cuban Rum Formula Cask No. 2a1 about a year ago. After finding a bottle in New York and trying a dram, I wanted more details about the rum. Vizcaya provides an excellent description on their website:
Made in the Dominican Republic, Vizcaya VXOP starts with sugar cane harvested at the peak of freshness, then quickly pressed to collect its fragrant juice. The juice is fermented and distilled in small batches, before being aged in selected oak barrels that formerly held bourbon. This process, known as methode agricole is the unique distilling method that infuses Vizcaya VXOP rum with its exquisite bouquet, smoothness, and delicately refined taste.”
The rum sounds appetizing from the description. Now time to see if this rum’s can stand up to its high reputation.
Bronze. When swirled around the glass the rum develops legs before slowly rescinding back down.
Nose
There is vanilla and caramel concluding with a faint hint of spice.
Palette
The palette follows the nose closely. Upon making contact with the palette, the rum opens with vanilla, caramel, and butterscotch before proceeding to an intricate floral note. There are hints of bourbon and woodiness from aging the rum in bourbon barrels adding complexity. The rum finishes with a light spice that complements the prior delicate flavors.
Finish
Smooth and velvety. There is no burn.
Cigar Pairings
I would recommend the Chateau Fuente, Guillermo Leon, and Zino Platinum for pairing with Vizcaya VXOP.
Conclusion
The award given to Vazcaya VXOP, best in show and double gold, display the craftsmanship that went into creating this exquisite rum. If you enjoy rum then I suggest you track down this rum.
Did you see the trainwreck? About a week ago, the management of Maker’s Mark announced to liquor store owners that they would be watering down the original Maker’s Mark recipe to keep up with rising demand (presumably in emerging economies like China). The new mixture, said management, would taste virtually the same but have an alcohol content of about 3% less.
In other words, the company would sacrifice quality and tradition for a few extra bucks.
As anyone who read the announcement would guess – fans went bat-shit crazy on Twitter, Facebook, and email. Maker’s Mark responded the way any sane company would and promptly apologized on Sunday via Facebook, with COO Rob Samuels saying “You spoke. We listened. And we’re sincerely sorry we let you down.” Fans were appeased, but Maker’s damaged their brand.
The thing I can’t seem to understand is, how did these guys not see the backlash coming? I spoke with the owner of Downtown Cellars on Liberty St. in Manhattan’s Financial District, and he said that he couldn’t care less if the alcohol content was dropped slightly as long as taste remained the same. What most everyone would acknowledge though is that perception often creates reality, and when Maker’s Mark fans felt the product that they recommend to friends was being diluted, they revolted. This is especially true in the luxury goods industry, where consumers don’t pay for ingredients, they pay for status.
I think the main point here is, if you in company management and you decide to change your core competency, in this case, the recipe that makes you world famous – think again. When firms like Instagram announce that they’ll sell user photos, they should have thought again – and their users forced them to.
The management at Maker’s could have saved themselves and their fans a lot of heartache if they had tested their announcement beforehand using surveys and focus groups. If they had done this, they might have seen it coming.
After the forecasting of Hurricane Sandy to hit the east coast, I stocked up on necessary supplies as well as dark spiced rum to wear out the storm. I picked up a bottle of Kraken Black Spiced Rum. The Kraken is a black molasses based rum infused with various spices. This rum is able is priced around $20.
Product Specifics
Producer: Kraken
Country: Trinidad
Type: Spice Rum
Website: www.krakenrum.com
ABV: 94 Proof (47%)
Bottle: 750 mL
Appearance
The bottle is interesting with a white background with a black squid reaching its tentacles up to bring down a ship on the ocean. The rum is a dark mahogany that is almost black. Very little light makes it through the rum.
Nose
The initial whiff is alcohol but clove, cinnamon, nutmeg, maple, and molasses begin to open up.
Palette
Medium body with kitchen spices from the nose in addition to dried fruit.
Finish
The ending is smooth with molasses.
Cigar Pairing
This rum would pair nicely with a medium to full-bodied cigar with a maduro or habano wrapper that is Nicaraguan. I would recommend a Camacho Triple Maduro, Rocky Patel Decade and 15th Anniversary, and Illusione f9.
Conclusion
Kraken Spiced Rum is a welcome addition to the spiced rum market. This rum is a great value that is versatile. I found this rum worked well neat, on the rocks, but was particularly a great mixer. I found it worked well in coke and made an excellent Dark N Stormy.
