Ten to One Caribbean Dark Rum
Ten to One Caribbean Dark Rum is a sophisticated and complex spirit that redefines the dark rum category, offering a true expression of the Caribbean without artificial additives. Founded by Trinidadian native Marc Farrell, this exceptional rum is a masterful blend of aged rums from across the Caribbean, reflecting a pan-Caribbean story and a commitment to quality.
Key Characteristics:
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Pan-Caribbean Blend: A meticulously crafted blend featuring 8-year-old column still rums from Barbados, the Dominican Republic, and Trinidad, expertly combined with high-ester pot still rum from Jamaica.
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100% Natural & Additive-Free: A "true rum" with no added sugar, colorings, or flavorings, allowing the authentic characteristics of the aged rums to shine through naturally.
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Ex-Bourbon Cask Aged: All components are individually aged in American white oak ex-bourbon casks, contributing to its rich depth and complex flavor profile.
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Versatile Proof: Bottled at 80 Proof (40% ABV), making it a highly versatile spirit equally suited for sipping neat or elevating a wide array of cocktails.
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Distinctive Presentation: The dark glass bottle not only protects the rum from light damage but also pays homage to the Caribbean's rich cultural heritage, making it a standout choice.
Tasting Notes:
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Appearance: A beautiful honey-amber color with rich golden yellow hues, showcasing its natural aging.
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Nose: An inviting and complex aroma driven by cooked fruit (such as banana and yellow apple) and baking spices. Further notes include nut loaf, toffee, tobacco, cedar, and hints of citrus oils. The presence of esters (often associated with Jamaican rum) is quite apparent, adding a lively fruitiness.
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Palate: Smooth on entry with a full, textural mouthfeel, revealing rich notes of molasses and dark toffee. Prominent flavors of baking spices like cinnamon and nutmeg emerge. Further exploration uncovers nuances of baked apples, banana bread, worn leather, and toasted nuts, balanced by a moderate acidity. It presents a savory character that evolves on the palate.
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Finish: A medium-long, dry, and clean finish with lingering warmth. Notes of subtle vanilla, cocoa undertones, and toasted oak persist. A faint peppery spice and a touch of citrus peel can also be detected on the tail end, leading to a satisfying and elegant conclusion.
Awards & Recognition:
Ten to One Caribbean Dark Rum has quickly garnered significant critical acclaim and prestigious awards, underscoring its exceptional quality:
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Double Gold Medal & 97 Points — 2020 Proof Awards
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Gold Medal — 2021 The Rum Masters
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Silver Medal — 2023 Bartender Spirits Awards
- Recognized as "Best Rum, period!" by judges at the LA Spirits Awards.
Overall Impression:
Ten to One Caribbean Dark Rum is a superb expression that successfully elevates the category with its natural integrity and sophisticated blend. Its unique combination of rums from diverse Caribbean islands, coupled with its additive-free production, results in a rich, complex, and remarkably versatile spirit. It's an excellent choice for savoring neat or on the rocks, allowing its intricate layers of fruit, spice, and oak to unfold. Its robust yet balanced character also makes it an outstanding foundation for classic rum cocktails, where it adds profound depth and an authentic taste of the Caribbean's finest traditions.