El Dorado PM/DHE High Ester Blend Rum

El Dorado PM/DHE High Ester Blend is the second limited edition in a specialized series from Demerara Distillers Ltd. (DDL) in Guyana. Released in late 2024 and expanding globally through 2025 and 2026, this expression is a "double double" pot still blend. It marries the historic, heavy character of the Port Mourant (PM) double wooden pot still—which dates back to 1732—with the rarely seen Diamond High Ester (DHE) marque produced on a small John Dore double retort copper pot still. This series represents El Dorado’s answer to the high-ester "funk" movement, though it maintains the signature richness and structure for which Demerara rums are famous.

Spirit Description

The rum is aged for 10 years in ex-bourbon casks and bottled at a robust cask strength of 51.7% ABV.

• Nose: It presents a complex and punchy aroma, leading with green apple and flambéed banana. These fruity notes are layered with the classic Port Mourant scent of old leather, cigar tobacco, and a subtle hint of peat or campfire smoke.

• Palate: The entry is bold and concentrated. Initial flavors of rich toffee and stewed red fruits are quickly followed by an explosion of baking spices—clove, cinnamon, and nutmeg. The "high ester" component adds a vibrant tropical acidity that prevents the heavy wood notes from becoming too dominant.

• Finish: Long, warming, and slightly tannic. It leaves a lingering impression of dark chocolate, coffee grounds, and a refined, spicy tobacco dryness.