Diplomático / Botucal No. 3 Pot Still Rum 2010

This is the No. 3 Pot Still release from Destilerias Unidas in Venezuela, the producer behind Diplomatico and Botucal, a 2010 vintage distilled entirely on a pot still rather than the light column spirit that defines the Spanish-style tradition. Matured in ex-bourbon oak, it is built to show a drier, more characterful side of the house.

The pot still gives it weight and tobacco-edged depth uncommon in the brand's sweeter bottlings. The nose offers vanilla, caramel and red fruits, the palate turns woody and spicy with cherry and a roasted note, and the finish is dry and bitter with dark chocolate. At 47% it has good drinking strength and far less sweetness than the Reserva Exclusiva, though it stops short of aggressive pot still funk. It rewards a rest in the glass, and suits drinkers who like the Diplomatico style but want more oak, spice and a drier frame, a tidy companion to a cigar.