Objective Notes

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

Barceló Gran Añejo rum is beautiful in the new bottle and in the glass. Colors of smoky golden-amber are the result of long duration in oak barrels. Now displayed in a clear glass it’s a beauty. Alluring aromas encountered are vanilla, wood, leather, and light alcohol. Savoring your first sip you find a nice medium body. Mid-palate reveals buttery-caramel-vanilla, oak, and hint of leather while a spicy-sweet, warm finish lingers into memory.

Anecdotal Notes

Roger – I was introduced to Barceló Gran Añejo rum in 2007 during a sailing trip off the coast of Panama. It was a well received during the rum tasting I hosted. The new 2010 version is better all around as its aged two years longer in used oak bourbon barrels and has significantly upgraded packaging. The bottle is clear and more squared off in shape with sharper edges with rounded shoulders. A stylish clear label sits between an embossed in the glass lion crest on the top and Ron Dominicano below.  It has a black foil wrap and black screw cap topper with pour limiter caps it off.

Taster’s Opinion

Roger – The new version of Barceló Gran Añejo Rum is smoother and more complex than it’s predecessor resulting from an additional two years in oak. The bottle is much improved and it has a higher end look and feel.  Worth while improvements to a nice rum. Enjoyed neat or on the rocks it doesn’t disappoint but at its very reasonable price point you can also make great cocktails without breaking the bank.

Dave – Please Barcelo, open up more distribution channels for your Gran Añejo.  It is all that a daily rum should be:  tasteful, with nice aromas and new dimensions added as you progress from sniff to taste to finish.  At such an affordable price, Barcelo Gran Añejo is a rum you look forward to enjoying each day.

Taster's Rating (10 is best):

Roger – 8 Flasks, Dave – 8 Flasks

Most recently tasted by: Roger and Dave in November, 2010 at RnD's North and South tasting rooms, USA

*750ml unless otherwise stated.