Dictador Best Of 1981

Dictador's Best Of series showcases very old Colombian rum from Destilería Colombiana, molasses based and column distilled in the Spanish style, where decades in cask define the result. This 1981 single cask is one of the more characterful releases, carrying a smoky, savoury edge that sets it apart from the house's sweeter norm.

Thirty six years in ex-bourbon wood has built something dark and unusual. The nose mixes caramel and fruit with distinct bacon and smoke, an almost peaty, old leather quality, while the palate turns to roasted notes, caramel and chocolate with an underlying sweetness. The finish stays roasted and woody with caramel and molasses. Dictador rums generally lean sweet, and this one balances that against its smoky depth. At 44% it is a slow, contemplative pour for drinkers drawn to aged Colombian ron with a darker, meatier twist.