English Harbour Extra Old

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

All the intoxicating flavors and smells of the Windward Islands are exuded in this medium-dark amber colored rum. On your nose, moderate vanilla, caramel, oak, nutmeg, and coconut command you: "Drink me now to get my full effect!" OK, I'm in, you say to yourself, and then experience mellow flavors consistent with the invitation. Hospitably forward yet well balanced, with distinct flavors that prove this is a loyal Island Rum, with a pleasing, unburdened finish telling you to come back -- soon, and often.

Anecdotal Notes
English Harbour is where my tasting of fine Rum began, and will always hold a special place in my heart, my soul, and especially my palate. English Harbour opened my senses to the fine sippin' going on in the Caribbean. Since I first landed in the Caribbean, I'd been a big fan of local Island beers like Piton, Carib, Presidenté, Polar, Belikin, Wadadli, and Red Stripe Then several years ago on Antigua, I thought I'd try the rum. Confused by the sheer number of rums available, I followed one of my travel rules of thumb, like "When in Rome…" and asked a local merchant what he recommended. Without hesitation and with a knowing look, he steered me to his favorite; at a bottle of English Harbour Extra Old. He explained that it was very smooth, ideal for sipping, and a bargain 21 year old rum at only $25. Convinced, I stashed it away on the boat. As the sails were hoisted for that night's journey south - destination Nevis - the sun began to set on the horizon and something more serious than beer was desired. The English Harbour beckoned. Once uncorked, I took a large brave sip and prepared myself for that certain bracing jolt. Instead, I was greeted with the most pleasing aromas and flavors reminiscent of all that the Caribbean gives the senses. Spices and sweet molasses with a friendly intensity that told me I could enjoy Rum on my own terms. As they say: "no problem, mon." Shipmates and I finished that bottle over the next several nights, and I returned home without another. Sadly, it took me a couple of years to return to Antigua, but not after scouring the 'States for any sign of this wonderful copper pot stilled rum.

Taster's Opinion
English Harbour Extra Old is always drinkable, as friendly as the Islands, and delicious. Well nigh impossible to find in the US, but a great reason to wash up on one of the 365 beautiful beaches of Antigua, where you can buy all you want at a bargain price.

My advice? If you go to Antigua, buy as much of this rum as you can carry home. It's the closest you'll get to the Islands without actually being there, and it will make you dream of returning with every sip.

Taster's Rating (10 is best): Dave - 9.5 Flasks

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

*750ml unless otherwise stated.