Review by: The Auditor

Review #1440; Rum #739

Here we have a special release from Holmes Cay, an American independent bottler based out of New York. This rum was distilled from molasses on a French Savalle copper column still at Diamond Distillery. The rum was put into ex-bourbon casks for 2 years in Guyana at origin before ageing a further 16 years in Europe, and then its final 3 years in New York state. It was then bottled with no additives at barrel proof.

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Distillery: Diamond

Bottler: Holmes Cay

Region: Guyana

Still: Column

ABV: 51%

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Nose: Orange Peel, Caramel, Toasted Nuts, Espresso, Dark Chocolate, Black Tea

Palate: Medium oily mouthfeel, Black Tea, Orange Peel, Mango, Dark Chocolate, Espresso, Nutmeg, Toasted Coconut, Clove

Finish: Long Finish, Black Tea, Orange Peel, Mango, Ginger, Dark Chocolate, Espresso, Nutmeg, Toasted Coconut, Clove

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An excellent bottling here from Holmes Cay. The black tea notes balance well with the fruit. Its not a crazy set of out there notes. It’ just well composed, balanced, and drinks very well. It leans towards that oily savory side for me. The spices round it all out and the oak is well integrated. This is one that makes you sit back and think with it. Overall a real winner for me.

Final Score: 91

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Scoring Legend:

• 95-100: As good as it gets. Jaw-dropping, eye-widening, unforgettable whisky.
• 90-94: Sublime, a personal favorite in its category.
• 85-89: Excellent, a standout dram.
• 80-84: Quite good. Quality stuff.
• 75-79: Decent whisky worth tasting.
• 70-74: Meh. It’s definitely drinkable, but it can do better.
• 60-69: Not so good. I might not turn down a glass if I needed a drink.
• 50-59: Save it for mixing.