I plunged my hand so deep into the dude stash jar (no idea why I have one...i live alone) over the last few days that I could see the bottom...on the plus side I can now review a pair rums from the deep end of the pool.
First up is this:
That is what the Black Tot looks like when it is served. The rum exceeds my ability to describe it, so let's settle on it was sensational and easily scored 11/10. Coming in at 54.3% I had expected a bit of a punch, but it was smooth with barely a noticable hint of alcohol on the nose or in the mouth. The aroma is potent; I was able to smell it from about 1m away when the bar tender opened it and once it had breathed for about 10 minutes it could be smelt by people as they approached. For me the nose was rich - caramel, toffee, maple syrup, golden syrup, apple, hazelnut, banana, coco...evolving more as I went along. Interesting there was no strong vanilla to it. The palate was all encompassing with a lot of the usual sweet rum flavours being supported by a spice, wood, leather, berry and crisp apple. It had a very long lingering presence and my empty glass smelt a little like a cigar as the rum aroma subsided.
I was glad to have given it a try and would happily put a bottle on the shelf, never to open but to appreciate. I love the story of the rum and the history attached and it's rarity makes for a great collectible. For the $110 the shot cost me though...I know there are a lot of very good rums I could buy a bottle of and be almost as happy. If you have some money to burn live it up!
Ref;
https://www.thewhiskyexchange.com/p/12109/black-tot-last-consignment-royal-naval-rum
I also had the Zacapa XO. There is a lot of talk about this rum not being worth the extra $$$ over the Zacapa 23, I disagree. This rum was sensational - rich deep flavours and strong aroma, well worth it. But don't think I am writing off the 23. That is still one of the best bang for buck options around.
Ref:
https://www.nicks.com.au/ron-zacapa-centenario-x-o-rum-750ml