There’s little we like greater than trying out goodies from Jamaica’s Hampden Property, which solely started releasing its inventory below its personal title in 2018. Right here’s a peek at three new(ish) releases from the long-lasting operation.
Hampden “Nice Home” Rum Distillery Version 2023 – That is the fifth version of Nice Home, and these are all the time excellent rums. There’s no info on what marks are used within the 2023 besides that it’s, as all the time, a mix (which modifications yearly by design). Daring however fruity, the rum pops from the get-go with notes of grilled fruit, ripe cherries, and darkish chocolate on the nostril. The palate is huge with tropical fruit — grilled pineapple, papaya, and coconut husk, shifting into extra spice-driven tiki high quality in brief order. Superb and expressive — and surprisingly well-balanced, by no means overblown with fruit the best way a few of Hampden’s rums might be. Even at 57% abv, this wants no water to go down straightforward. Too straightforward. 114 proof. A / $109
Hampden Rum Pagos – A singular, high-ester rum aged in 100% ex-sherry casks, solera type (with no formal age assertion). By no means thoughts the sherry, it’s the fruity esters which can be most distinguished right here, pungent on the nostril with components of bubblegum, spiced apple pie, and overripened berries. The nostril retains going and going — coconut, orange peel, grapefruit, you title it. Rather less blown-out on the palate, however not a lot, the super-fruit discovering a tamer edge that focuses extra on citrus, which is definitely pushed by the sherry casks. Espresso bean folds in on the prolonged but refreshing end. 104 proof. A- / $100
Hampden Rum 8 Years Outdated – Hampden’s flagship bottling, this 8 12 months previous is (I imagine) the oldest rum Hampden produces presently. At a relatively tame 46% abv, it lacks the punch of many a Hampden rum’s nostril, reducing a extra savory, barrel-driven profile that’s in step with its comparatively superior age. Notes of toasted bread, toasted coconut, and, properly, toasted every thing drive the expertise ahead, with a barely winey bent. On the palate, fruit is current however muted, a smoldering be aware of cooked pineapple — extra pores and skin than meat — plus peach and almond lingering on the end. Chewy and toasty, with a slight sesame afterimage. Undoubtedly some of the refined Hampden rums, and one which requires extra time (and a bigger pattern) than I had obtainable. 92 proof. A- / $65
Hampden Rum 8 Years Outdated
$65
