A review of Captain Morgan: The man and his limited edition rum

$17.99 / 750 ml

For those who know me, they know that I am a big fan of rum.  Now don’t get me wrong, I’m a fan of other spirits as well (check out past posts which mostly have been bourbon for the last year), but rum is tops.  I probably was a pirate in a past life, or something.  But for this review, I turn my attention to the real life pirate, Captain Henry Morgan.
Henry Morgan led a historic battle in 1671 off the coast of Panama.  Although he emerged the victor, he lost five ships including his flagship “The Satisfaction”.  In 2010, archaeologists discovered the remains of a 17th century fleet believed to be the ships of Morgan.  In 2012, the team needed more funding and who should have helped fund this little expedition?  None other than the Captain Morgan rum brand.  At the site, numerous items were found: swords, chests and wood barrels that may have once held sherry.  It was this idea that started the wheels turning and at the end of last Summer, Captain Morgan brand announced that they were releasing a limited edition spiced rum with a sherry oak finish to commemorate the findings.

Released at the end of last year, the limited edition bottle has a silvery-metallic label with the infamous pirate on the front.  On the backside is a brief recounting of the sacking of Panama City.  The liquid from inside is a deeper amber with red hue color than the traditional light amber/honey color of the original spiced rum.

Unwrapping the top and pouring some into my glass, I am greeted by a cherry-vanilla nose with some hints of oak.  Once I tasted it, I encountered notes of caramel and vanilla, a fruity cherry with a hint of spice as an undertone, and a nice subtle charred oak finish.  It took a minute for the spice to reveal itself and it helped balance the other flavors.   And the great thing is that it finishes smoothly, no burn.

I must admit that when I first saw it on the shelf, I was a bit reluctant because I have not been impressed with Captain Morgan’s unique offerings the last few years.  But I will say that this was quite a find.  It’s a drink that goes down well neat, on the rocks, or mixed.  And with a price point of less than $20, you can not go wrong.  I am going to grab a few more while they’re on the shelves for a couple of upcoming parties.