Objective Notes

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

The slightly cloudy, orange tint in the otherwise mahogany hue of Temptryst’s Applewood rum is the first indication that this is a “rum of a different color.”  Mildly complex, slightly sweet buttery aromas of brown sugar and caramel, with a hint of spice (Cinnamon and clove), and the scent of recently-sawn hardwood are generally well balanced and subtle — a smooth aged smell disguising a very young rum.  Initial tastes are predominantly of nutty sweet praline flavors and butterscotch, then fruity (like being near a fruit tree orchard), with some allspice.  A medium-weight body with a pleasant waxiness precedes the woody, initial finish, which trends sweeter in the middle, the exits warmly with deeper flavors reminiscent of well-aged Guyanese Demerara rum.

Anecdotal Notes

Dan Watson, a mechanical engineer who holds several patents, is now a rum scientist, and the brainiac behind Au Natural Spirits’ evolving portfolio of experimental flavored rums.  He was particularly fond of this development, such that he bravely offered it to a large and qualified panel of judges in Edward Hamilton’s 2008 Ministry of Rum Tasting Competition in New Orleans.  There, the rum earned a Gold medal, placing well in the same company as some established industry heavyweights – and it’s easy to see why.  Temptryst Applewood rum exhibits a sophisticated depth of character, complex aromas and flavors that belie its scant few months aging in wood.  Dr. Watson has clearly discovered secrets of distilling and maturing rum well beyond the industry’s tradition-based processes. 

Taster’s Opinion

Dave - Amazingly, Temptryst Applewood rum belies its < 6 month adolescence, tasting more like an excellent 12 or 15 year old Demerara rum. It is difficult to comprehend all that Dan Watson has learned, but a few sniffs and tastes clearly indicate he knows his craft.  RnD look forward to the day when Temptryst Rums are widely distributed and made available for rum connoisseurs to appreciate.  Until then, we’re anxious to see what Dan enters in the 2009 Ministry of Rum Tasting Competition.

Roger - Dan Watson, mad scientist of the rum world knows how to make rum. From the first time I met Dan I knew he was different and what he wanted to do was different enough that if he’s successful in a marketable product he could turn the industry upside down with his innovative aging process. Temptryst Applewwood Rum is some of the best rum Dan makes and is very smooth and favorable considering its relative age. It’s meant to be enjoyed neat as you would any other aged rum. It’s a fine product that I hope someday will find it’s way to market. When Dan brings his Temptryst Applewood Rum to market it will be worth to adding to your collection.

Taster's Rating (10 is best):  Dave - 8.5 Flasks; Roger - 8 Flasks

Most recently tasted by: Dave and Roger, March 2009 at RnD’s North and South Tasting Rooms , USA. .

*750ml unless otherwise stated.