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Note: this was one of our first, really crappy reviews. Although it turned out to be surprisingly accurate anyway, please be sure to see the updated review, following this post.
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No doubt you've heard of these two rums from Puerto Rico: Ron del Barrilito Two Star and the perhaps more aged Three Star. Quite well respected at the Shillery, Two Star is actually preferred by Preacher Ed for a daily sipper. On this particular evening Sue Sea and I decided to taste these two primarily to see what a few more years would do (see also the Ron Abuelo and Ron Abuelo 7 reviews). The envelope please:
Sue Sea:
Me:For a brief moment I thought Jim had given me an agricole because I immediately picked up some mild caney and grassy aromas. On reflection I got a hint of butterscotch as well. The taste was quite an unexpected change, with a real punch of pepper with a little ginger and clove. The finish was consistent with the taste: lingering - peppery with a glowing hot ginger. Good stuff.
Sue Sea and I are in complete accord on this one. And so are the good Preacher Ed and I regarding preferring Two Star as a pleasant daily drinker. I did pick up the grassy/caney aroma in the taste as well, so it's fair to say I found a bit more balance and coordinated transition than Sue Sea who could not relate the aroma to the taste and finish. If I were you, I'd trust Sue Sea on this one. OTOH, Ed loves this rum, one of the few of which he dares to speak out.
Rating (10 is best): Sue Sea - 4, Capn Jimbo - 6.