Bacardi first created their original white rum 156 years ago. “We are known for our white rum exclusively,” says Master of Rums David Cid. “But we craft other rums that are much more elaborate, complex and elegant.”
This spring, the company unveiled two new premium selections, Bacardi Añejo Cuatro, barrel-aged a minimum of four years, and Bacardi Gran Reserva Diez, barrel-aged a minimum of 10 years. Bacardi Añejo Cuatro is perfect for elevated cocktails, while Bacardi Gran Reserva Diez makes for a luxurious sipping rum.
An old favorite, Bacardi Reserva Ocho, has remained a private family blend for more than seven generations but will debut a fresh look along with the release of the new rums. In addition, the extremely limited release Bacardi Reserva Limitada, a blend aged up to 16 years, made its debut with the other three rums. Note: GSN was not sent a sample of this for review
Bacardi’s history is deeply rooted in Cuba and the Caribbean, dating back to 1862, when Don Facundo Bacardí Massó founded the company in Santiago de Cuba. It remains a family-owned business today, and the owners stay true to the brand’s historic craftsmanship. Looking to the future, Bacardi continues to adapt, distilling its products in Puerto Rico and celebrating the vibrant energy of the Latin Caribbean.
Bacardi Añejo Cuatro (80 proof)
Visual: Medium gold.
Nose: Sweet and semi-floral rum notes, with a gentle stroke of oak char.
Taste: Mild vanilla and caramel and a very soft entry. Exceptionally smooth and easy-going.
Finish: Medium, with some lingering dry and woody notes clearing the palate.
Overall: An easy sipper and an even easier mixer. It does what it needs to do, and it does it very well.
GSN Rating: A-
Bacardi Reserva Ocho (80 proof)
Visual: Dark orange-gold.
Nose: Rich, velvety notes of burnt caramel, milk chocolate, sunned wood and tree bark.
Taste: Extra smooth and vanilla laden on entry, but broadened into a wider vista after a few seconds. Keen and poignant oak flavors, mingling with a tasty distillate. Eventually, baking spices come into the mix adding to the overall experience.
Finish: Very long and with a lot of bright, sparkling spice notes.
Overall: A fantastic 8-year-old rum. So much going on here that it took me by surprise. Very, very good.
GSN Rating: A+
Bacardi Gran Reserva Diez (80 proof)
Visual: Dark orange-gold.
Nose: Dark, dark molasses-like nose with a touch of wood fire. Camping in a glass.
Taste: Dessert-like sweetness with an abundance of vanilla and toffee. A thick and enveloping mouthfeel.
Finish: Very long. The sweetness goes on and on. Imagine having eaten a candy bar.
Overall: It is amazing how much a few extra years of aging can do to a spirit. This rum is like sipping a XO brandy, statesman-like and venerable. A special occasion rum for sure.
GSN Rating: A
For more information go to: Bacardi
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