Objective Notes

Very Smooth (on the RnD scale of Harsh-Smooth-Very Smooth-Extremely Smooth)

Abuelo 12 Años Gran Reserva affirms its long aging in oak barrels by its dark amber color.  Pulling the cork stopper out of the bottle, my anticipation piqued, as I instantly recognized the sweet scents of vanilla and oak. After a few moments taking in the richness of the dark color I was drawn in by the intensely desirable fragrance that exuded from the glass, almost teasing me to try it. Aromas of vanilla and oak as mentioned before but then caramel (like a Werther's Original candy), toffee, and leather are followed by fresh coconut and a soft pecan nuttiness.  The focus turns toward that first taste. A buttery soft entry with smooth chocolate and vanilla flavors, reveals a medium-full body that envelopes your tongue. Mid palate still smooth but slightly warm and interwoven flavors of wood, toffee, leather, and vanilla are joined by a little peppery spice. The long finish balances sweet and spicy with a long oak fade.

Anecdotal Notes

Varela Hermanos S. A., a third generation Panamanian family distillery, starts the production process by harvesting more than 50,000 tons of sugarcane from approximately 800 hectares of land owned by the company.  Both sugarcane honey and molasses are used in fermentation, distilled in a 4 column still. Aging continues for 12 years in used small white oak bourbon and whiskey barrels. The final product is blended and then bottled in Panama City at one of its two bottling facilities.  Preferring to let the quality of their rum speak for itself, packaging is robust but humble, and uses Abuelo’s traditional brown bottle with a parchment style label and raised Varela crest on the shoulder. It’s finished with a family name labeled foil neck and cork topper.

RnD were fortunate to be able to first enjoy Abuelo 12 Años Gran Reserva during the events at the 2010 Miami Rum Renaissance. It was included in the Rum XP competition where it won a Gold Medal  and Best in Class for the rum category 7-12 years. 

Tasters Opinion

Roger - Abuelo 12 Años Gran Reserva is the flagship rum from Varela Hermanos S. A.  Nice dark color, forward complex aromas, and smoothness are very rewarding for the rum connoisseur . Enjoy it neat or on the rocks as it’s far too good to be hidden in a cocktail.

Dave - Abuelo has crafted a superb 12 year old rum to top their already excellent seven year old spirit.  Rich, sweet, mature yet light, Abuelo 12 Años is a noble addition to any connoisseur’s rum locker.

Taster's Rating (10 is best):

Roger - 9 Flasks

Dave: 9 Flasks

Most recently tasted by: Roger and Dave in August 2010 in RnD’s North and South tasting rooms, USA.

*750ml unless otherwise stated.