Kirk and Sweeney XO

Just had another go at this rum and knowing now, that it needs to rest for around 30 minutes, it scored better this time. A very rich and full bodied rum with a nice long strong finish. There is a nice vanilla and molasses hint to it throughout and the price definitely matches the quality. Remember to rest it to get the full experience.

Liquid Crème Brûlée, what a treat. The heavy wood influence and some spices on top make a really complex and balanced drop. This is definitely my favourite Rum from the Dominican Republic by far and I am not really a fan of their style usually.

Wow, what can I say. Simply a mega rum. Caramelly on the nose as well as on the palate, almost like a Creme Brülle. You don't taste the alcohol so strongly. Important: Leave to rest a little in the glass

No. 6: A very nice nose, consisting of caramel, toffee and vanilla. On the palate, I feel a very light sweetness and a hint of vanilla. This rum has a strong taste. Alcohol but hardly noticeable. Top.

I thought long and hard about opening it, as the aesthetics of the bottle alone are a treat. I'm glad I did, because it surpasses its 12, 18 and 23 siblings once again. Basically like the 23, but even more intense and rich. Great thing, unfortunately a bit expensive.

VERY IMPORTANT: Please let this rest in the glass for 20-30 mins before consuming to fully develop its flavours and aroma. On The Rocks: On The Nose there is very smooth brown sugar, floral and spice with mild roasted oak. Taste has a very strong immediate sweet spicy hit with floral and alcohol undertones. There is a delayed alcohol burn and warmth in the chest. Finish is medium length with with a smooth sweetness and mild spice. It is an up front complexity but does not drastically change in the finish. This is a very delightful and sophisticated rum. This is a unique small scale special event sipper to be throughly enjoyed. Mixed Pepsi Zero: I refuse to mix this.

Very finely balanced rum. The alcohol is perfectly integrated. Pleasant herbal and spicy notes. For a better rating, I miss the rough edges a little. Beautiful bottling from Kirk and Sweeney.

A great start to the tasting evening! Of course, this is unmistakably a Dominican, but an unusually strong one, without the alcohol being noticeable at all. A few drops of water make it even more accessible, with apricot and barrel notes in balance. Not my preferred style, but certainly drinkable and therefore recommended for special occasions - if you don't have to watch the pennies ... (bottle price now exorbitantly high)