Ron Abuelo Anejo is a well respected Panamanian rum, molasses based. The color is a light amber; it is a BTI best buy. This evening Sue Sea and I decided to taste both this rum and its 7 year big brother (see also our comparative tastings of Ron Barrilito Two Star and Three Star). I must say that I have learned not to judge rums by their color - truly a waste of time, as caramel is often added for just that purpose - but of course there's nothing like a gorgeous clear, dark amber. The reviews:
Sue Sea:
Me:Ron Abuelo Anejo has a beautiful light, fresh pleasant aroma - clear and clean, citrusy and pleasant. Nice. But this rum is really all about the taste: explosive! - peppery, smoky, a bit of maple syrup. Like lightly burnt pancakes. The finish is short and very mild in comparison, distant really.
One night when I was typing away I decided to pour a Ron Abuelo Anejo to keep me company. And had another, and yet another. It was easy to sip, perhaps too easy. I do love the explosive, peppery taste, you know you're drinking a real rum. But without a good finish you are caused to drink a bit faster and a bit more to enjoy it. Like that's a problem, lol...
Rating (10 is best): Sue Sea - 5, Capn Jimbo - 6.
Note: This is an early review, and must be so considered. Much, much later we had the opportunity to revisit all three Ron Abeulos' - the Anejo Especial, the 7 Anos Superior and the 12 Anos Gran Reserva and published our updated comparisons (here).