Havana Club Barrel Proof Rum Review

Dario - I got a bottle of this during December when my parents came back from visiting family in Cuba. I''ve tried all the Havana Clubs except the Maximo, £1,050.00, and the 15 year which I have but saving for a momentous occasion. The first difference is that it is slightly stronger than the others at 45% ABV. The second difference is the name itself, Havana Club Barrel Proof. It is the first to have the name written in the English language. The third is the presentation of the bottle and box. Excluding the Maximo, all other Havana Club Rums use earth tones where the Barrel Proof uses a bold blue color.

The presentation is a bright amber color that still allows some light through it. While pouring, the rum seems to take a little longer making its way through the ice than a conventional rum. The smell is a combination of spice and a sweet caramel. Taking the first sip I immediately noticed the hints of the caramel that wrapped itself around quite nicely. Taking it down was even better as I could feel the warmth of the rum take over. The after taste is very pleasant with a slight kick of the caramel.

I''ve had the rum a few different ways:chilled, over rocks, mixed and (of course) with some cigars. I prefer it as cold as possible because it gives a better presentation while sipping. I will admit when it''s been sitting at room temperature and poured over the rocks, the spice and sweetness are easier to take note of. Drinking it mixed is good, but doesn''t do it any justice. I had it with two cigars - Romeo y Juliet Churchill (ISOM) and a Gurkha Beast. While smoking the Romeo y Juliet it did overpowered but I was kinda expecting that. The Gurkha Beast was a perfect fit, the strength of the Gurkha Beast with spiciness of the Barrel Proof was beautiful. I''d recommend smoking a stronger cigar while drinking the Barrel Proof.