Rum Journal: The New “Platinum Blonde” from Papa’s Pilar

Another limited edition, another hit.

The Hemingway Rum Company’s Papa’s Pilar Rum has debuted another limited-edition expression: Platinum Blonde.

It’s remarkable to think about how far the company has come since it first launched in 2013 with its blonde and dark expressions, from opening its distillery in Key West last year to its superb sherry-finish limited release last summer.

And now Pilar is at it again with the 2,000-case release of Platinum Blonde.

While this is the same core blend of five rums from the Caribbean, Central America and the United States, it’s a totally different expression.

The company used different quantities of each of the rums (which range from two-to-seven year bottlings), varied the cooperage, the temperature, among other changes.

Crucially, this is a higher-proof rum, bottled at 46 degrees instead of the company’s traditional 42.

So what’s it like?

It’s got an aroma of key lime, toffee, tropical fruit and a hint of vanilla.

The flavor profile is marked by vanilla, mango, stone fruit and a whisper of black pepper.

Thanks to the higher proof, the finish is bold but ultra smooth.

This is meant to be a Cuban-style rum, lighter in body, drier and a bit bolder than the Pilar you’re used to – and it succeeds.

It’s a truly different rum, sophisticated but playful, grown-up but without any compromise on the drinkability that makes Oilar’s rums so good year after year.

In short, it’s a standout, a terrific sipper and perhaps even better in a cocktail like a daiquiri.

Rum Journal Review: 93 Points

— CJ