We’ve long been fans of the upstart Papa’s Pilar rum brand, thanks to what is one of the industry’s most drinkable rums and a terrific, authentic Hemingway-backed story.

The brand has taken that drinkability both to hard-core rum aficionados and, more importantly, to bourbon and whisky drinkers.

The latter is likely the focus behind the newest expression, a new 2,000-case production of the Papa’s Pilar Bourbon Barrel Finished Dark Rum.

In recent years the brand, which made its initial launch five years ago with an aged “dark” and a lightly aged “blonde” expression, has diversified its range with a host of special-finish expressions, most notably last year’s spectacular Sherry finish.

And this is just as good.

This expression takes the signature blend (which itself blends rums aged in bourbon, port and sherry casks, and finishes it in bourbon barrels.

So what is the newest Pilar like?

The aroma is a delight, with notes of malted chocolate, key lime, cocoa powder and vanilla, with a flavor profile marked by sweet-edged notes of black pepper and spice.

On the finish, the bourbon begins to emerge, as the layers of this rum reveal themselves, with hints of toffee and caramel.

It’s just plain good, and another hit for the brand.

Rum Journal Review

92 Points