Rumbullion! XO 15 Years Old – 46.2%

In Cognac terms “XO” means extra old, i.e. at least 6 years old (and as of 2016 at least 10 years old), although often up to 20 years old. With this Caribbean rum you can rest assured it’s 15 years old blended with vanilla, orange peel and fine spices.

Colour: A burnt orangey rust colour.
Nose: Altogether more grown up than the younger Rumbullions. Fairly old, woody, a gentle sweet undertone of spices along with the vanillery, orange citrus hints; almost mulled wine like.
Palate: Thick and very gentle, even at 46.2%… it builds slowly with the spices giving your mouth a tickle. It’s creamy, caramelly and rich with a slight oak charcoal backnote.
Finish: Fairly long, with the caramelly spiced notes carrying through to the end. Thoughts: “Seductive with an intense depth; well balanced, full-bodied and packed with warmth.” – Taken from the official notes, and it about covers it perfectly! The cola cube effect of the Navy Strength is dialled back here nicely to allow the older notes out. Available: Master of Malt – £59.95

See my previous review of Rumbullion Navy Strength.

Thanks to Master of Malt for the sample!