Don Q 2009 Signature Release Single Barrel 10-Year

Definitively Don Q flavor that is fruity, light vanilla, light caramel, light oak. Unique to this version is an unfiltered feeling with the flavor of wet cigar tobacco and smoke. A little funk/hogo for a Puerto Rican rum.

I bought this during my last trip to Puerto Rico. I wanted to love this, but it was good (not great) for me. I can see how others with more refined palates will really enjoy this. There seemed to be a bit of a smoky flavor in the background, and it drank more like a scotch than a rum, at least to me. Note that all of the bottles I have seen are 40 proof (see photo), but there must be multiple versions of the 2009 given the previous reviewer’s comments & photo.

BTW, I would recommend shopping at “The House” in San Juan if you get the chance. They have a few locations. It is a large wine & spirit shop located on the second floor above one of the major grocery stores. They have a cafe area in the middle where you can taste your purchase along with dinner or cheese/snacks. The staff are super helpful and informative.

Aroma is gentle with caramel and wooden tones. Taste is strong (as you could expect from 49,25% ) but not burning. You can identify brown sugar, caramel and even creme brule and banana. Perfect price (approx.43Eur in Czech Republic) for 10y Single barrel Cask strength rum !