The Ron de Barrilito rum expressions

Ron del Barrilito is a testament to Puerto Rico’s rich rum-making tradition, offering various expressions catering to different palates and occasions. Each rum showcases the brand’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship, from the smooth and versatile Two Stars to the luxurious and complex Five Stars. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a sophisticated cocktail, Ron del Barrilito rums provide a memorable and authentic rum experience. Below is a short background on the distillery and tasting notes on its run expressions.

Ron del Barrilito, a brand steeped in history and one of the most esteemed rum brands in Puerto Rico, was founded in 1880 by Pedro Fernández. With a legacy of over 140 years, the brand has consistently produced top-notch rums. The distillery, located at the historic Hacienda Santa Ana in Bayamón, Puerto Rico, is a testament to the brand’s rich heritage.

The brand’s name, ‘Ron del Barrilito,’ refers to its traditional aging process in oak barrels, a practice faithfully upheld since its inception. The Fernández family, custodians of the brand, have diligently preserved the traditional methods and recipes, passing them down through generations. This commitment to tradition is what sets Ron del Barrilito apart.

Ron del Barrilito uses high-quality molasses derived from sugarcane grown in Puerto Rico. Its distillation process uses a combination of pot and column stills, resulting in a robust but balanced spirit with a rich flavor profile.

The rums age in 500-liter American white oak barrels (butts) that previously held Oloroso Sherry. These barrels impart rich flavors of dried fruits and nuts and a smooth texture to the rum. The maturation occurs in Puerto Rico’s warm, humid climate, accelerating the interaction between the rum and the wood. The distillery also macerates a portion of the distillate in a blend of dried fruits and spices. The infused rum is used in blending to impart more intense flavors. Each rum expression represents a unique blend of aged rums with the desired flavor profile.

The maturation warehouse at Ron de Barrilito

Ron del Barrilito Two Stars, 43% ABV, 750 ml

The rum is matured between 3 to 5 years. It presents an aroma profile of vanilla, caramel, and toffee, accompanied by nuances of dried fruits and oak. The flavor is rich and smooth, showcasing notes of vanilla, butterscotch, and a suggestion of honey, alongside toasted oak and a subtle spiciness. The rum concludes with a medium-length finish, marked by an enduring sweetness and a slightly woody touch. It serves as an excellent, budget-friendly option perfect for crafting cocktails and various mixed beverages.

Ron del Barrilito Three Stars, 43% ABV, 750 ml

This rum variety is aged for 6 to 10 years, offering a deeper complexity with heightened hints of dried fruits, spices, and oak. The aroma is intricate, layered with scents of caramel, dark chocolate, and dried fruits, enhanced by vanilla and oak. The taste is full-bodied and robust, containing elements of toffee, caramelized sugar, and raisins, with traces of dark chocolate, nutmeg, and toasted nuts. The finish is prolonged and sweet, accented with caramel, oak, and a spice note. This rum is versatile, ideal for drinking neat or in refined cocktails.

Ron del Barrilito Four Stars (Limited Release), 43% ABV, 750 ml

This rum, aged for a maximum of 20 years and available in limited editions, delivers a profoundly rich and complex taste profile. It is characterized by strong flavors of dark chocolate, dried fruits, and spices.

The aroma is dominated by caramel, vanilla, and dark fruits, complemented by hints of spice and oak. The taste is smooth and harmonious, with notes of toffee, vanilla, dark chocolate, and dried dark fruits, while the influence of oak provides a deeper dimension with spicy and toasted nutty undertones. It concludes with a long and sweet finish, carrying persistent flavors of vanilla, oak, and a hint of spice.

Ron del Barrilito Five Stars, 43% ABV, 750 ml

Ron del Barrilito Five Stars, aged up to 35 years, is the distillery’s most exquisite offering. It delivers an incredibly rich and multifaceted tasting experience, featuring layers of nutty, caramel, and slightly tobacco-infused flavors.

This rum is among the top-rated in Puerto Rico, known for its intense aromatics and strong Sherry influence. The nose is filled with an array of dried fig, prune, and raisin scents, underpinned by touches of vanilla, cinnamon, and well-aged oak. On the palate, it is both rich and intricate, presenting an array of dark chocolate, molasses, and dried fruit flavors, with additional notes of clove, cinnamon, and a discreet smoky quality. The finish is profoundly long-lasting and saturated with the essence of dried fruits and spices. It is ideally served neat or over ice.

Additionally, a cask strength variant is available, aged about two years and bottled at 69% ABV.

Ron del Barrilito rums are renowned for their artisanal craftsmanship, distinct aging methods, and rich heritage. Their meticulous production and blending practices ensure a unique and prized flavor profile that makes these rums a treasure in the premium spirits marketplace.

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