Holmes Cay just lately dropped two new of its single cask rum releases, each from acquainted islands within the Caribbean — and each with some fascinating backstory to them. Let’s dive in.
Holmes Cay Single Cask Rum Trinidad 2012 11 Years Outdated – That is the start of a brand new collection of rums from the previous 10 Cane distillery in Trinidad, beginning with this 11 12 months outdated. It’s the beginning of a vertical launch, as Holmes Cay can be releasing a couple of casks every with a minimum of one further 12 months of age in barrel. So subsequent 12 months we’re more likely to see a 2012 12 Years Outdated, and so forth… till the juice runs out. As for launch #1, rum followers are in for few surprises, the nostril operating to candy molasses, toasted marshmallow, and toasted oak — with only a slight robust of hogo and sherried fruit within the combine. The palate is sort of floral, with components of tea leaf, then extra molasses, adopted by a soothing salted caramel and chocolate observe, with hints of raspberry within the combine. Coconut and extra caramel on the end assist take the sting off the in any other case massive, daring expertise. There’s nothing off in these tasting notes, which makes me surprise why I didn’t take pleasure in this extra effusively than I did. However I type of thought the identical factor about 10 Cane again within the day. Curious to see the place this goes with time. 118 proof. B+ / $140
Holmes Cay Single Cask Rum Barbados 2009 Premier Cru – A uncommon completed rum from Holmes Cay, this Foursquare rum spent 12 years in bourbon casks then goes into first development Bordeaux cask for a full 2 years. The weird nostril is sort of savory, brooding, and a bit earthy, with notes of anise and low evident. Sulfury molasses lingers. On the palate, the expertise is much sweeter, with quick, oxidized, sherry-like overtones, with aggressive notes of grapefruit-like citrus, mandarins, and honey-saturated graham crackers. Enduringly candy and fruity on the end, the rum provides a robust, boozy conclusion with echoes of chocolate and vanilla. A curious journey certainly. 110 proof. A- / $170
Holmes Cay Single Cask Rum Barbados 2009 Premier Cru
$170
