Kōloa Kaua'i Dark Rum

START of Koloa Tasting with distiller Bob Gunter (Tasted 3rd) Per the Distiller: Infused with Tahitian Vanilla and caramelized Sugar. 3.23.22 Served: Neat, Flute Bottle Open: Same Day Last intake: More rum Aroma: Strong baking Vanilla Flavor: Burnt sugar and strong vanilla. The vanilla has a wonderful authenticity and lingers on the tongue. The vanilla character is almost too strong to sip on it's own, but would be well suited to a chocolate chip cookie cocktail. Will have to try butter-washed.

Aroma is vanilla extract and a little bit of rootbeer. Kinda reminds me of the spiced rum they make. Taste is a bit difficult to determine. I'm getting molasses, brown sugar...I think? Some rootbeer in the retro-hale. The alcohol isn't strong but it still interrupts the taste profile with its heat and presence. I like their spiced rum much better. Rating based on neat sipping.

My first US produced rum, and I was a little disappointed to find a screw cap. The rum is a lovely dark color, with strong notes of vanilla on the nose. On the palate the vanilla notes continue, but with a definite alcohol warmth. This is almost like drinking sweetened vanilla extract. Though not unpleasant, it is definitely overpriced.

I experienced a great tasting of this rum and its siblings at the distillery on Kaua'i. The very enthusiastic staff (what a great job-working at a distillery in Hawai'i!) guided us through the tasting and the preparation of our own favorite rum drink. The MaiTai I made with this dark rum was fantastic.

Somewhat heavy on the molasses, which I like. Nose has a good caramel on the front. The alcohol lingers on the palate afterward, with a bit of sharpness. I'll take this over any of the mainstream brands, but it's still outdone by ones from Key West.

Amazing rum. Vanilla on the nose. Vanilla and molassas flavor with a very smooth finish. Was lucky enough to purchase this directly from the distillery. Definitely a dark rum to always have on hand.