Diplomatico Ambassador Selection Cask Strength Rum (700ml)

This is the peak of the Diplomatico range, as created by Golden Barrel Awards 2011 Master Rum Blender of the Year, Tito Cordero, and comes appropriately packaged in a stylish tapered bottle with a heavy set base and a cork inset into a weighty high quality metal stopper. Ambassador is matured in x-bourbon barrels before finishing for a couple of years in x-Pedro Ximenez (sweet Sherry) casks. Clearly, this is where things get serious for Cordero. It is a full throttle, 100% pot still rendition without filtration or compromise that stands as a benchmark in its category. Aged for a minimum of 12 years, the saturated, burnished mahogany colour leaves fat, glass-staining legs. Sensuous, mildly prickly aromas open with choc fudge, mocha, brandy cream and fruit cake. Cocoa and mocha accentuate with aeration, with the spicy fruit cake notes returning. From start to finish, the palate is a masterpiece of flavour choreography, beginning light, soft and gently spicy, slowly building in concentration, unfolding pulsing spices, intense dried fruits (raisin, date) and liquorice strap while fine-tuned acidity provides razor’s edge balance and a sense of elegance. It finishes clean, fresh and dry with a molasses aftertaste followed by a liquorice strap fade that reverberates over twenty minutes, however don’t be surprised if you’re still tasting this after an hour. It stands comfortably alongside the top two or three rums we’ve been fortunate enough to experience. Bravo! 47% Alc./Vol. (2011 batch tasted).

Other reviews... Rich and concentrated, this is a blend of rums aged up to 12 years, then aged an additional two years in former PX Sherry casks. The end result is luxurious, thick in caramel, toffee and gingerbread flavors that finish long and elegant, with clove, allspice, dry cocoa, leather and orange peel accents. It sips beautifully. 96 points - wineenthusiast.com

5+ stars - diffordsguide.com