What

Appleton Estate Jamaica Rum, one of the oldest rum distilleries in the world, launches a new product range and the ‘From Jamaica with Love’ campaign, with the aim of de-mystifying premium rum.

Experience

I had the pleasure of attending an Appleton Estate rum tasting with Richard Tring, former winner of the prestigious Appleton Estate bartender challenge. I like a dark ‘N’ stormy as much as the next girl, but I have to admit I am somewhat of a rum novice when it comes to premium rum. I arrived eager to learn.

First for tasting was Appleton Estate Signature Blend. The Signature Blend is made up of a combination of several rums of different styles and ages. It had a golden amber appearance and tasted like a combination of citrus, peach and apricot. It was nice to sip, but would make the perfect accompaniment for a cocktail.

Next up was Appleton Estate Rare Blend 12 Year Old. The rum is aged in Number One Select American Oak barrels and is aged to a minimum of 12 years. It had a darker bronze, honey colour. To taste it was rich and oaky with cocoa notes. This is a rum to be savoured, and shared with your favourites, and sipped over a heap of ice.

Finally I had the opportunity to go head-to-head with other guests to shake up the best Mai Tai. Sadly, I didn’t reach first place, but getting to drink the sweet pineapple and almond cocktail was good enough for me.

Before the tasting I was a rum novice, but I left knowing I’m an Appleton Estate Rare Blend kinda gal.

Cost

£19.50  Appleton Estate V/X (Appleton Signature Blend from October 2015)

£35      Appleton Estate 12 Year Old (Re-Launching as Appleton Estate Rare Blend in February 2016)

£3,500   Appleton Estate 50 Year Old Jamaica Independence Reserve

Where

All good bars, major supermarkets and specialist retailers.