El Ron del Artesano Rum – Tawny Port Cask Finish 2013

El Ron del Artesano matured and bottled this Panamanian molasses rum in Germany's Black Forest, giving a 2013 distillate eight years in ex-bourbon before a two year Tawny Port finish. Crucially it is bottled without added sugar or colour, which sets it apart from the sweeter Spanish style norm and makes it a useful stepping stone for drinkers moving away from dosed Panamanian ron.

The nose is dry and almost dusty, with dried and tropical fruit, solvent lift and oak, while the palate brings dark chocolate, walnut, caramel and a popcorn note. The Port adds a warm, berried sweetness rather than syrup, and the finish stays dry and nutty with a slight sharpness. This is a relaxed, patient sipper that rewards drinkers who like a leaner Latin profile with just a hint of wine cask fruit, rather than big power or lush sugar.