Guatemala-based Zacapa is well-known for its iconic Zacapa 23 (and Zacapa XO) expressions, however much less generally seen is that this third bottling, the “black” Zacapa Edición Negra. It’s made out of a mix of rums aged 6 to 24 years, and is “impressed by the pure parts of Guatemala together with the darkish hearth of its volcanoes.” A number of the rum is aged in “double charred American oak casks” — although I’m not totally certain what meaning — supposed to create a bolder, richer, smokier expertise.
The tip result’s stable, although not markedly totally different from Zacapa 23 — albeit 3% larger in abv. Should you’re conversant in the standard-bearer, you’ll like this simply advantageous, too.
That mentioned, listed here are some tasting notes.
The nostril is hearty however candy, like all Zacapa tends to be. There’s clearly a wholesome quantity of sugar dosage right here (as typical), however Zacapa appears to know what to do with the stuff. As a substitute of cloyingly candy, the nostril comes throughout like a well-sweetened cappuccino, that includes recent espresso, almond milk, and all topped with toasted marshmallows. There’s a lightweight smokiness right here nevertheless it’s light, once more extra in that toasted/burnt sugar vein than something from the campfire. There’s only a trace of cigar leaf-grassiness because the rum develops within the glass.
On the palate, the rum can be a traditional Zacapa, simply barely elevated in proof, which is noticeable. Extra espresso, cola, and tobacco leaf are all evident. The sweetness turns its head from marshmallow towards a lightweight maple be aware. I’m not all the time in love with maple notes in something, however they work effectively sufficient right here, as they’re saved in test sufficient to mood any overt saccharine qualities. A sure spice emerges because the end builds, complementing a reprise of espresso and ample notes of chocolate.
Once more, there’s numerous the identical character right here that you just’ll discover in Zacapa 23 (and even Zacapa XO), although it’s arguably filtered by way of just a little extra charred wooden to provide it a sure punchy, gritty high quality. I think about the additional alcohol, as slight as it’s, is doing extra of the heavy lifting, nonetheless.
86 proof.
A- / $70 / zacaparum.com [BUY IT NOW FROM CASKERS]
Ron Zacapa Edicion Negra
$110
