It was a rather cold evening in Florida, ie less than 70 degrees. In search of a rum or two to taste I decided to pick out two well regarded Venezuelan rums: Pampero and Santa Teresa. But a word of warning - this was one of those nights where emotions, family problems and distractions intrude and nothing tastes good. I'm sure you've had a few of those. Still, I feel obligated to record our impressions, however faulty for the sake of record. Sue Sea and I promise to redo these soon, so check back
After much thought, and for now I have decided to place Aniversario Reserva Exslusiva in the Jamaican style section due to factors that will become apparent. Aniversario has a great presentation in a laced up leather pouch and squat traditional looking bottle with its faux wax seal. Don't touch the seal and you can pretend. The pouch is great for keeping your medicinal herbs or your marbles, lol. It has earned good reviews that suggest this is a great rum with which to introduce Compleat Idiots - new rum drinkers such as myself. Do we agree? The reviews:
Sue Sea:
Me:I have to be honest and admit I was not in the best of moods tonight, so please take my words skeptically for now. I am. My primary nosing impression was one of pungent spice - perhaps clove - and an oaky, leathery smell. On reflection and with care and nosing high, I obtained a fleeting citrus note, replaced by a hint of black cherry and raisins. The aroma was nicely reflected in the tastes of spice, smoke and raisins with a medium body. The finish was medium, peppery and warm bordering on hot with a spicy kick and definite afterglow. I find Aniversario spicy and lively all the way from aroma through its spicy hot finish. It is a rum with a kick that will warm you up on a cold winter's eve.
Sue Sea and I are on the same page with Aniversario. I suggest you nose with care, start high and light, as otherwise this rum can easily overpower. Nosed with care it's much more pleasant. The color is a nice dark amber no doubt courtesy of some extra caramel coloring. Nice legs, but I'd honestly prefer a more natural color. On the other hand the color does reflect its character. I found the aroma pungent and rich, and even with careful nosing I do pick up alcohol. There is a nice sweetness and with care I do pick up a hint of vanilla. The body is medium - the taste reflects the aroma, particularly the spiciness. I pick up some oak or leather. The late palate heads toward a definite astringency and the finish begins. Sue Sea's lively is right on as a spicy, peppery burn develops down the hatch, and leaving a lingering heat in your chest. This rum leaves a definite heavy aftertaste and coating residue in the throat, the kind that makes you want to pick up your water and rinse. A bit much.
In sum I find this rum presents as pungent and spicy, but lacks complexity and subtlety. I particularly dislike the cloying aftertaste.
Ratings (10 is best): Sue Sea - 4, Jimbo - 5
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Special Note: Keep in mind we were both in a mood unbecoming good tasting. As I write this review two days later I have been retasting this Pampero and found I enjoyed it more. Accordingly I will raise my score to 6. Unlike some others, I do not see this rum as a good introduction for a new rum drinker: it borders on being too rich, too hot and too challenging. It could accompany a heavy cigar.
Do stay tuned for a retaste with Sue Sea...