Rum for next Mondays Tasting. This is a great present for the association, as it is one of my favorites in their line.I think that Cognac Ferrand discribes it the best when it says, Grand Reserve is a fine blend of Barbados rums, aged for five years in bourbon casks in the Caribbean then refined in old French oak casks at Château de Bonbonnet. Its succulent nose, typical of the Barbados style, reveals notes of toasted coconut, fudge and oaky vanilla. Plantation Grande Réserve 5 Year Old can be enjoyed straight, on ice or in cocktails.
The thing that I really like about it is that is more than good enough to drink neat or on the rocks and inexpensive enough to mix without a gut wrench when you do. One of my favorite mixes is with coconut water, this is a really wonderful combination that never goes out of style. It also makes the perfect rum for the "Barbados National Cocktail", the Corn and Oil.
Plantation has a full line of rums from around the world, unfortunately many of them are not available here in the United States. Anytime that you find a bottle of these expressions that Alexandre Gabriel has created, just buy it you won't be disappointed.
