Review #1478; Rum #777

This rum a very limited release from Appleton Estate meant to recreate the famous Wray and Nephew 17 year used to make the very first Mai Tais. This rum was distilled from molasses and aged for 17 years in Jamaica at origin before being bottled with no additives. I will note this is a 100% pot still Appleton product which is always exciting. This rum came from 10 ex-bourbon casks which resulted in 1500 bottles total.

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Distillery: Appleton Estate

Bottler:  Appleton

Region: Jamaica

Still: Pot

ABV: 49%

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Nose: Tropical Fruits, Guava, Mango, Touch of Leather, Orange Peel, Star Anise

Palate: Medium mouthfeel, Star Anise, Mango, Guava, Leather, Black Pepper, Vanilla, tiny hint of plastic

Finish: Medium length finish, Mango, Guava, Black Pepper, Star Anise, Vanilla, hint of plastic

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First, to get it out of the way, it’s a great tasting rum. Its rich a fruity, quite bright given the age, and delightful to sip on at its proof. Its certainly a bit more interesting than the standard Appleton line, but falls behind most the Hearts releases I have tried.  I have no clue how it does in a Mai Tai but it certainly isn’t worth the crazy price they were asking for it.

Final Score: 88

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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.