Hamilton 2006 St. Lucia 7-Year

This rum doesn't have as much burn as I expected. A bit funky, but way less than I expected. Definitely a nice fancy sipper. Smooth while having character.

This stuff is off the hook. 126 proof and has the burn of a blow torch to prove it. The closest thing i can compare the burn to is the horse radish burn you get when you eat to much. Once you taste this rum you will never have a problem identifying it again. When the fire eventually goes out it is really good and tasty, but to hasten the process, drop in a rock and let er melt and it smooths out to a quite ideal texture and delightful drink. Bought one of these to go in my rum collection just to throw a rock in the pond when doing some tasting with my friends.

This rum is an ester bomb. It has an incredible funk with a flavor profile that varies depending on how long it has oxygenated for. Upon opening the bottle, I found it to be dominated by a burning rubber flavor. Over time, it mellowed into woodiness, tannic, and fruity funk flavors. Used in any drink in any amount, its flavor dominates. It's a challenging rum but friends and I agree that it's not necessarily one most would find pleasing.

This rum is the epitome of flavor and funk yet balanced with oak, vanilla, caramel, and a touch of thick sweetness to balance the aggressive funk. Surprisingly smooth for 64%. This rum is amazing.

This was the first higher-end Hamilton I've sampled. The one I tried was about 46% abv, so not the "cask strength" version. Nevertheless, it was simply bursting with well-rounded pot-still goodness. There was also strong oak and subtle smoke. Highly recommended! (Also tried it in a Daiquiri—not as highly recommended. Needs to be tamed in a more nuanced cocktail, else enjoyed as the good Minister has given it to us.)

8+

Dry, higher proof and funky. A bit pricey but a really delicious rum.