Appleton Estate 12 Year Rum (750Ml)

Appleton Estate 12 Year Old Rare Casks is a Jamaican rum made on a single estate in the Nassau Valley. Appleton is one of the island's oldest working sugar estates and rum makers. It is a big step up from the 8 Year Old.

The blend mixes pot still and column still rums. Every rum in it has spent at least 12 years in American oak. All of that ageing happens in Jamaica's heat, which pulls flavor from the wood quickly. It is bottled at 43% ABV, a strength that keeps it rich but still easy to sip.

Pour a glass and you will smell hazelnut and almond first. Molasses, toffee and creamy vanilla follow, with a bright line of orange peel. A little cocoa or coffee hides underneath. The palate is creamy and full, with brown sugar, toffee and ripe tropical fruit. Warm spice builds slowly. The finish is long, with oak, more spice and a last touch of cocoa.

Sip it neat or over a large cube of ice. It also makes a fine Rum Old Fashioned or Mai Tai.

For food, pick dark chocolate, pecan pie or a sticky toffee dessert. Aged cheeses and grilled pork are good savory matches. Bourbon and brandy fans who are curious about rum will find a lovely first bottle here.