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Guatemalan rum model Botran has been unavailable within the U.S. market since 2019. Now the model is again, with new expressions, new branding, and a brand new sustainability accreditation Principally: new every part.
The majority of the brand new Botran Rum line now carries a quantity on the label, in contrast to earlier editions, however not that these aren’t age statements. Like many rums, these are fanciful names that point out the oldest rum within the mix, not the youngest. All of Botran’s aged merchandise are solera-style blends of rums starting from 5 years previous as much as the quantity on the bottle. So, Botran No. 12 consists of rums aged 5 to 12 years previous. Received it?
We obtained the three oldest expressions within the Botran lineup for evaluation. All are 80 proof and bought in 700ml bottles.
Botran Ron de Guatemala No. 12 Reserva Superior – Aged in three varieties of casks: American whiskey, “medium toasted American whiskey,” and sherry. A bit on the cruel facet, the spice-forward nostril of this rum comes throughout as virtually peppery, showcasing some astringency. The spirit has a considerably beefy edge, rising stronger over time earlier than shifting into a transparent espresso bean be aware. The palate feels muddy and wishes a little bit of focus, with an excessive amount of caramel making issues really feel, properly, like caramel. Cloves pop together with extra of that espresso, nevertheless it’s aggressively earthy components that cling to the considerably hard-edged end. B- / $25
Botran Ron de Guatemala No. 15 Reserva Especial – Aged in 4 varieties of casks: American whiskey, that very same previous “medium toasted American whiskey,” sherry, and Port. This can be a extra well-rounded expression of rum the place, once more, espresso rapidly involves dominate alongside a significantly much less leathery and evenly spicy nostril. There’s extra of a chocolate be aware on the palate evident right here, which melds properly with the spicy qualities within the combine, giving the rum a slight Mexican chocolate really feel. Fruit emerges because the end builds — each plum and cherry notes taking issues out on a way more agreeable and balanced be aware than the No. 12 gives. B+ / $33
Botran Ron de Guatemala No. 18 Reserva de la Familia – Identical barrel routine as No. 15. A bit sweeter once more, with a brown sugar be aware that pairs properly with the espresso aromas beneath. Some licorice/anise components linger. The palate is wealthy and coffee-infused, with chocolate syrup notes evident. The rum strikes from there right into a candied licorice be aware on the end, molasses and well-sugared espresso lingering. Not overwhelmingly advanced, however probably the most balanced of the bunch and a stable cocktailing choice. A- / $45