Ron Zacapa Rum 23 yo

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I first came across the Zacapa brand while judging the inaugural International Cane Spirits Competition in Tampa, FL, in 2006. The company just signed a deal with international beverage giant Diageo for its products to be marketed and distributed globally. After three years, Diageo will get to buy a 50% equity share of the brand.

• Ron Zacapa Rum 23 yo

The Zacapa rum range includes Zacapa Centenario 15, Zacapa Centenario 23 and Zacapa Centenario XO. I'm partial to this expression which I voted to gold medal status in the International Cane Spirits Competition.

It's an "Irish whiskey style" of rum, nicely balanced between cask aging in used American oak barrels and alcoholic level (40%, or 80 proof). The dark amber color provides eye appeal. Butterscotch notes prevail, and the rum is smooth from first sip to lengthy finish.

The usual retail price is in the $50 range for the 750ml bottle.

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