GSN Review: The Real McCoy Rum

The real McCoy was named Bill and he was known as a rum runner.  Now, of course, there is a tropical cocktail by that name, but Bill was a bit more interesting than the drink.  In fact, he was born in Good Spirits News’ hometown of Syracuse, New York in the late 1800’s.

Bill McCoy saw a market for rum during the days of prohibition and took advantage of that fact.  This isn’t surprising, since a lot of people made a lot of money through dealing liquor to thirsty Americans.  But Bill decided to do it in an honest and serviceable way.  He would travel between the Bahamas and Long Island, NY delivering 100% pure (rare at the time) rum to customers.  He side-stepped the mafia and paying off corrupt officials and simply delivered the genuine product at an affordable price. Eventually, he was caught by the Coast Guard and served nine months in prison.  But, his name became a catchphrase for the best rum that could be obtained during the dry years.

Thus, this new spirit is named in his honor by the Foursquare Distillery in Barbados.

The Real McCoy Rum (80 proof)
Visual: Golden honey-brown.
Nose: Rich vanilla essence with a lot of woodiness to offset the caramel.  There’s an unusual quality that I’ve usually only found in dark rums.  Luscious and mouth-watering.
Taste:  Warm, with a lot of vanilla and cream notes.  Quite like a dessert.  The body and proof of the spirit makes for a hearty intensity.  This is not a bland rum by any means.
Finish: Peppery notes kick in after a minute or two, but are married to a chewy molasses sweetness.
Overall:  A rum with real character and intrigue. Well worth seeking out as a sipping rum.
GSN Rating: A-

For more information go to: Real McCoy Spirits