Appleton Estate Reserve 8-Year

Appleton is my go-to. The 8 yr is good. 12 is better.

Rhum assez simple pour un jamaicain, en accord avec le prix.

Tried this with El Dorado 12 year + Angostura 7 year + Flor De Caña 12 + Ron Zacapa Centenario Sistema Solero 23

Loved the richness of flavour of this rum.

Am concerned about sugar levels in rum and my amateur palate couldn’t detect much in this unlike the Zacapa!

Tried Appleton 12 Year Rare Casks side by side with the 8 Year Reserve. Both are of great quality! The 8 year burns and bites a little less (both are minimal in both products) and tastes good but it's definitely not as complex as the 12. That said, it's still an excellent rum! I say it's equally good but both are fairly different from each other. It's properly sweet and delicious. It reminds me of the old V/X (which I rated a 7) but it tastes more complex and somehow more smooth than the Appleton V/X. I'm not sure why the 8 Year Reserve is rated so low but regardless, I grabbed a bottle after realizing it might not be coming back for a while. I highly recommend snagging one yourself.

To the nose I was getting molasses which I was happy with, but the finish was weird. Maybe it would be better mixed.

I like this one straight and in my favorite tiki’s drinks.

Disclaimer: novice and of non-discerning taste

I should seek out more rums rated above 6 instead of thinking 7.5+ ratings are required for an enjoyable pour, this rum has taught me. The Appleton 8 year is good and for me quite enjoyable neat, though (without having currently tried side-by-side, will update if I do) I believe I enjoy the (rare casks) 12 year more.

There's a distinct metallic scent on the nose for me, as well as notes of fruit and maybe brown sugar. The metal thankfully doesn't carry over to the palate and there is a nice sweetness along with the fruitiness and some light vegetal notes typical of an Appleton Jamaican rum from my understanding - not too intense like other Jamaicans, but noticeable. Short-medium finish without any burn really.

I will have to try this in a painkiller or some other cocktail, but I'm very glad I've tried this neat and would buy again at $37 CAD for sure.

This is nice example of very nice, basic rum for reasonable price. New bottling is also a big improvement compare to previous design. Dark in colour, nice wood in smell and easy to drink.

Good for the price, would make good cocktails, not that good for sipping (in my opinion). Disclaimer: i am not a fan of the humidity/"hogo" flavor of certain jamaican rums, and it is very present here. A bit harsh.

For many years this was my go to rum. I have starting to explore many others these days