Turns out, spiced rum doesn’t have to be based in nautical lore, and its bottles aren’t legally obligated to come festooned with pirates and sea monsters. The proof: Don Q Oak Barrel Spiced Rum, the first spiced offering from the brand and one that’s providing a grown-up alternative to the options currently dominating back bars and store shelves. Don Q’s version clocks in at a hefty 90 proof and is comprised of rums aged from three to six years.
The spices include vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg and clove, which add plenty of flavor and complement the barrel-aged rummy character. And best of all, they achieved it without the use of artificial flavors or colors, because who wants those?
Roberto Serrallés, Don Q’s sixth-generation rum maker, had this to say: “We took our time in crafting our Don Q Oak Barrel Spiced Rum. We wanted to make sure we created an elevated experience for our customers; one that would reveal how barrel aging and pure ingredients can take spiced rum from an ordinary mixer to an exceptional spirit that is ideal for crafting unique cocktails as well as for drinking neat, on the rocks or with a splash.”
It’s no surprise that he likes it, but we’re excited to see a spiced rum that’s using oak barrels to its benefit. That three to six year timeframe is longer than the category standard, which means more structure, and more actual aged rum flavor in addition to the added spices.
Don Q Oak Barrel Spiced Rum is newly available at select liquor stores across the country, and you can expect to pay about $30 for it. Until you get your hands on a bottle, here are the official tasting notes.
Don Q Oak Barrel Spiced Rum Tasting Notes
Visual: Bright, rich, golden hues with medium to heavy texture evident on the glass.
Aroma: Crisp vanilla and nutmeg beginning with honey oak notes. The enhanced proof is subtly evident here in the nose.
Taste: Warm kitchen spices that slowly give way to oaky tannins, consuming the palate with a slow, soft finish all the way to the heart and soul.
