Diplomático / Botucal Single Vintage 2007

The Diplomatico Single Vintage 2007 draws on the pot still side of Destilerias Unidas in Venezuela, made from molasses and given a sherry cask influence. Where the everyday Diplomatico bottlings stay soft and rounded, this vintage release adds extra oak, sherried dried fruit and chocolate depth, while keeping the sweet comfort that defines the house.

The nose is sweet and fruity with vanilla and coffee, the palate brings vanilla, chocolate, caramel and a sherried sweetness, and the finish stays sweet with wood, dried fruit and oak. At 43% it is a touch more refined than the core line, though still firmly on the sweet side, so it is honest to frame the richness as a blend of sherry wood and dosage rather than age alone. It makes a satisfying neat dessert rum for those who like the Diplomatico profile but want more layers of oak and dried fruit.