Alcoholes Y Rones de SA Rumclub Private Selection Ed. 47 2013

This Rumclub Private Selection edition is an independent bottling by Spirit of Rum, drawing on the soft Panamanian column still molasses spirit that supplies so many independents, then taking it somewhere far less tame. Matured in ex-bourbon wood with a Ten Cane finish, it is a single cask presented unsweetened at a formidable 64.2%, made for drinkers who want intensity over ease.

The nose is layered with vanilla, dried apricot, toffee and smoke, and the palate keeps that drive with vanilla, smoke, spice and dried fruit, finishing long on caramel, vanilla, cappuccino and toffee. The Ten Cane finish brings an unexpected smoky, almost bacon like umami note alongside cocoa, while the dry build and high proof keep everything taut and well integrated. It carries its strength surprisingly well, making it a layered, spicy and rewarding sipper, a long way from the region's gentler dessert rums.