Dos Maderas 5+3

Dos Maderas (Spanish for two woods) is very unique rum.  It is distilled in the Caribbean nations of Guyana and Barbados for five years in Oak barrels.  At the end of this time it is shipped to Spain and kept in Dos Cortados Sherry casks for three more years.  This process gives this rum an added complexity that made this an interesting review for me.

Appearance/Presentation

This squat bottle has an old world feel to it.  The tapestry colored label gives all of the basic information in a flowing script.  Above the label is the raised ship emblem seen on both the neck and front label.  Sealed with a cork the liquid in the bottle has a golden cherry tinged look.  In the glass the rum takes on a copper hue.

Nose

The swirl brings the scent of oak, brown sugar, hints of vanilla and spices.  After letting the glass breathe for a moment I smell hints of pecan and smoky fruit.

Palate

The first sip is wonderfully smooth.  The hints of vanilla and brown sugar I smelled initially envelop the tongue manifesting in a fruity pecan flavor.  I pick up the slightest hint of sherry and smoke around the edges.  There is the tiniest of burns that quickly dissipates.  The aftertaste for me was caramelized pecans leading to a pleasant finish.

Review

Start to finish this is an extremely enjoyable rum.  I recommend drinking it neat or perhaps with an ice cube or two.  I do not smoke, but I believe the baseline smokiness of the rum would lend it to go well with cigars.  I would think twice before mixing it in a cocktail, but am curious how the taste would add or take away from certain drinks. 

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