San Cristobal Gran Reserva

San Cristobal is a Nicaraguan rum from Compania Licorera, carrying seven years in this Gran Reserva expression. Nicaragua's column-still molasses rums lean toward the drier, cleaner and more spirit-forward end of the Spanish style, set apart from the sweeter Central American houses. Matured in ex-bourbon oak and bottled at a soft 38%, this should show vanilla, light oak spice and a touch of dried fruit, with the seven years adding a gentle depth. The lighter proof keeps it easy and approachable. Nicaraguan rons of this kind tend to be cleaner than the dessert end of the style, so expect a smooth, mellow pour with less of the heavy sweetness found elsewhere in the category.