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

Medium amber color. Attractive combination of spice and sugar on the nose; the classic rum aroma. Sipping reveals a nice medium bodied rum, with distinct alcohol and tastes of moderate oak, smoke and hints of vanilla. The finish is long smooth and smoky, with paraffin lingering on the tongue long after swallowing, inviting another sip. Only moderately complex, but it exhibits a well crafted balance of flavors.

Anecdotal Notes
Appleton Estate is a high volume distiller of rum from Jamaica whose various spirits are widely distributed. It is a staple of many rum cabinets, because it goes well with occasional sipping or use in cocktails. Appleton's 12 year old is a basic, aged rum – a good start for newcomers to rum tasting, as many of the intense Agricole rums might be offensive, nor will it introduce many complex flavors like some of the exotic and older Industrial rums.

Taster’s Opinion
Dave - I'd read and heard comments about this rum for years before I anxiously tried it for myself. Almost all of the comments praised Appleton Estate 12 year old. My expectations were high, and I found it tasted just like a good high volume rum should, consistent from one bottle to the next, but with little individual character.

Taster's Rating (10 is best):
Dave - 7.5 flasks

Most recently reviewed by: Dave in November, 2006 at RnD's South tasting room, USA.

*750ml unless otherwise stated.