The Lovers Rum VIII La Forza

La Forza is the eighth release in The Lovers Rum series, a Caribbean blend bottled at a moderate 47 percent. It leans easygoing while carrying a light Jamaican accent, a versatile pour that bridges accessible sweetness with a hint of funk for drinkers who want a little more strength and character.

The blend reads as gently sweet and well balanced, with a nose of caramel, dried fruit and roasted oak moving into a palate of caramel, dried fruit, chocolate and coffee, then a finish of vanilla, spice and more chocolate. A faint bitterness and burnt edge run through it, and the Jamaican influence adds a touch of fruit and pep without tipping into heavy hogo. It drinks well neat and especially shines in a Daiquiri, where its citrus, caramel and light spice carry through cleanly.