Havana Club Anejo 7 Year Old Rum (700ml)

Cuba has a long tradition of rum-making dating back to when Christopher Columbus introduced sugar cane to the island. The crop flourished in the favourable climate and fertile soil. Production of sugar soon followed and by 1620 there were 50 sugar refineries in Cuba. By the 1800s, the rum-making process had been refined with the introduction of copper stills and the concept of ageing the spirit in pots buried in the earth and wooden barrels. The second half of the 19th century saw the production of a more delicate rum, aged in white oak casks, developed initially “for the elite” on the instruction of the Spanish Crown.

The Seven remains the pride of the Havana Club portfolio, composed of rums aged for a minimum of seven years, some substantially older. What's so likeable about Havana 7 is its point of difference: This is a relatively dry, feather-weight style. Muted vanillas, light molasses, dried fruit cake and crisp oak make for a suave spirit, though not without substance. There's enough depth and presence here to enjoy simply over ice, but its individuality is its forte. Being less sweet lends it to super-refreshing cocktails. Swap it out over white rum in a Mojito with confidence. 40% Alc./Vol.

Other reviews... This is a perfect example of Cuban style rum (fitting since it’s actually from Cuba): There’s a huge amount of rich caramel character on the nose, with a light wood backing. Take a sip and you get a rush of heat, then smoothness: Sweet molasses and caramel, cane sugar, and a bit of cinnamon character in the finish. Very light on the wood, it veers into sweet vanilla — but it’s never cloying and never overly sugary. I’m deeply intrigued by the older Havana Clubs, though I can’t much imagine this being significantly improved by any additional time in oak. Best of all is the price, though you’ll have to buy it out of the country until the embargo is overturned. Come on, Obama! - drinkhacker.com

Gold Medal, Dark Rum up to 7yo - 2014 The Rum Masters (The Spirits Business)

... A nicely done expression that captures the depth and complexity that a rum can achieve while still maintaining a freshness and a definite Cuban terroir. - spiritsreview.com