Malecon 21 Years – Reserva Imperial

This Reserva Imperial sits in the upper reaches of Malecon's long aged Panamanian range, a column still molasses rum carrying a 21 year statement and matured in ex-bourbon wood at a gentle 40%. It works in the soft, rounded Spanish style, leaning slightly less sweet than some of its Latin neighbours while staying firmly easygoing.

The nose is distinctive with caramelised sugar, marzipan, almond and grape, and the palate follows into caramel, vanilla and more marzipan with a medium sweetness, closing on sweet wood, caramel and dark chocolate. Light wood and gentle spice give it a backbone, while the nutty marzipan note sets it a little apart from the usual caramel and vanilla template. Round and relaxed, it makes a comfortable neat pour, a fine companion to a cigar, or an easy glass for unhurried evenings, with enough fruit and nuttiness to hold the interest.