Cuisine

Gold in a Glass: The Finest Aged Rums You Need to Taste

If you’re looking for the finest rums, this list showcases some of the most outstanding bottles that have captivated experts and enthusiasts alike.

Por: Rubén Carrillo
Bacardí Distillery in Puerto Rico gives this exquisite rum that showcases a refined and intricate profile / Photo Bacardí
Bacardí Distillery in Puerto Rico gives this exquisite rum that showcases a refined and intricate profile / Photo Bacardí

From the award-winning Star & Key Rum, crafted in the tropical paradise of Mauritius. To the rich and complex Pampero Aniversario from Venezuela, each of these rums tells a story of tradition.

 

Whether it’s the influence of volcanic soil, high-altitude aging, or the careful selection of barrels.

 

These spirits offer unique profiles that highlight the artistry behind premium rum-making.

Star & Key Rum has been named the Best 2024 Rum worldwide at the New York World Spirits Competition / Photo Star & Key
Star & Key Rum has been named the Best 2024 Rum worldwide at the New York World Spirits Competition / Photo Star & Key

Star & Key Rum: The Best 2024 Rum in the World

Hailing from the tropical island of Mauritius, Star & Key Rum has been named the Best 2024 Rum worldwide at the New York World Spirits Competition – NYWSC.

 

Also, This premium spirit is produced at the renowned Labourdonnais Estate. A family-owned plantation established in 1856. 

 

This exceptional rum is made from freshly pressed juice of red and yellow sugarcane, grown on-site to ensure the freshest ingredients. 

 

Afterward, the rum undergoes a unique aging process in French oak casks previously used for cognac.

 

Star & Key Rum delights the senses with inviting aromas of toffee, butterscotch, vanilla, plums, and figs. 

 

However, the palate is velvety and smooth, offering flavors of caramelized sugar, hazelnuts, apricots, and a delicate herbal note.

 

The finish is long and lingering, with hints of cinnamon, dark chocolate, and toasted oak spices.

 

The expert panel at the NYWSC described it as: “Warm vanilla, caramel, and delicate spices, followed by toffee, oak, and tropical fruits.”

Pampero Aniversario: Best Dark/Gold Rum

Pampero has been an integral part of Venezuela’s rum heritage for decades. 

 

Known for pioneering extended aging techniques, the brand revolutionized the industry’s standards.

 

First introduced in 1963 to commemorate the brand’s 25th anniversary, Pampero Aniversario is a masterful blend of rums aged in American white oak barrels that once held bourbon and sherry. 

 

This meticulous aging process creates a rich, multi-layered profile that sets it apart as one of the best 2024 rums in its category.

 

Deep amber in color, this rum releases enticing aromas of toffee, vanilla, and dried fruits, enriched by subtle hints of leather and oak. 

 

The NYWSC tasting panel described it as: “Molasses, dark chocolate, and a hint of dried fruits.”

This meticulous aging process creates a rich, multi-layered profile that sets it apart as one of the best 2024 rums in its category / Photo Pampero
This meticulous aging process creates a rich, multi-layered profile that sets it apart as one of the best 2024 rums in its category / Photo Pampero

Zacapa Rum: A Guatemalan Icon

Crafted in the highlands of Guatemala, Zacapa Rum is produced using fresh sugarcane juice and aged in a solera system.

 

Also using barrels that once held American whiskey, Jerez wine, and Pedro Ximénez sherry.

 

The aging process occurs at high altitudes, where the cooler climate slows maturation, allowing the rum to develop an exceptional balance of flavors and aromas.

 

Finally, with a rich history and a legacy of prestigious awards, Zacapa remains a symbol of Guatemalan craftsmanship and one of the best 2024 rums to experience.

Zacapa remains a symbol of Guatemalan craftsmanship and one of the best 2024 rums to experience / Photo Zacapa
Zacapa remains a symbol of Guatemalan craftsmanship and one of the best 2024 rums to experience / Photo Zacapa

Bacardí Gran Reserva Limitada: The Puerto Rican Gem

Produced at the legendary Bacardí Distillery in Puerto Rico, this exquisite rum showcases a refined and intricate profile.

 

 It bursts with notes of vanilla, tropical fruits, toasted almonds, and delicate oak spices. 

 

Besides, the texture is incredibly smooth and velvety, leading to a long, lingering finish that captivates the palate.

What to know about rum?

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