Review: Cruzan Single Barrel Rum
Cruzan is probably best known for its flavored rums, but it also dabbles in high-end products like this aged Single Barrel Rum.
As the name suggests, this is a genuine single barrel rum, aged up to 12 years in St. Croix (part of the U.S. Virgin Islands) and bottled at 80 proof. Sounds good, but it’s not my favorite. The nose is quite mild, molasses with a good amount of wood to back it up. But the body isn’t altogether there for this. Surprisingly tannic, with lots of green pepper, thick tobacco leaf, and powerful wood notes. The finish heads into a touch of cinnamon and bitter orange peel, with a rougher way out than I was hoping for, leaving behind not a sweet touch of candy but almost a drying sensation.
Barrel #87510 reviewed. 80 proof.
B- / $27 / cruzanrum.com
Cruzan Single Barrel Rum
$27
I think you sorta hit the nail on the head for me with this product. I was always confused when other people lauded it.
It’s all wood with little else. Little texture, little sweetness, little molasses. There’s none of that “hogo” that most aged rums have that help it stand up to the barrel’s wood.
Basically, the Single Barrel tastes not unlike how you might think their light rum would taste if it sat it wood a long time. I’m not sure the virgin island style rums can handle so much age.
All of this wouldn’t be a problem if it cost $10 less, in my opinion.