Blind Burro Rum: Unveiling the Prohibition-Era Spirit of the California Coast
Embark on a captivating journey into the depths of flavor and legend with Blind Burro Rum. This intriguing spirit pays homage to the clandestine rum-running days of the Prohibition era along California's Central Coast, where "animal curiosities" often disguised illicit libations. More than just a rum, Blind Burro embodies a blend of Caribbean heritage and Californian allure, delivering a smooth and versatile experience.
Blind Burro Rum is a creation of Black Market Spirits, a Santa Barbara-based company that prides itself on crafting unique spirits with compelling stories. While the brand is bottled in Santa Barbara's vibrant Funk Zone, the rum itself is distilled from molasses in Puerto Rico, notably at Club Caribe. The high-proof distillate is then shipped to California, where it is carefully diluted with pure water from Santa Barbara to its final bottling strength, typically 40% ABV (80 Proof).
The brand offers at least two expressions:
- Blind Burro White Rum: This is a light-bodied, unaged expression, known for its refreshing and subtle flavor, making it an excellent base for cocktails.
- Blind Burro Rum (General/Aged Blend): This is described as a rich and captivating spirit, a harmonious blend of aged rums, carefully selected for their distinct flavors and character. The emphasis is on a more complex and aromatic profile, suitable for sipping.
Key Characteristics (General to Brand):
- Prohibition-Era Inspiration: Evokes a sense of adventure and clandestine operations along the California coast.
- Puerto Rican Distillation: Crafted from molasses in Puerto Rico, ensuring a traditional Caribbean rum base.
- Santa Barbara Bottling: Cut and bottled in Santa Barbara, California, using local water.
- Versatile Proof (40% ABV / 80 Proof): Ideal for mixing in cocktails or enjoying on its own.
- Molasses-Based: A classic rum style.
- Produced by Black Market Spirits: A craft spirits company based in California.
Tasting Notes (Based on descriptions for both expressions):
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Blind Burro White Rum:
- Nose: Clean and subtle, possibly with light notes of vanilla, sugarcane, and tropical fruit.
- Palate: Light-bodied, refreshing, and crisp with delicate flavors of vanilla, subtle sugarcane sweetness, and a touch of citrus.
- Finish: Clean and balanced, allowing mixers to shine.
-
Blind Burro Rum (Aged Blend):
- Nose: Rich and inviting, with hints of caramel, vanilla, and toasted oak. May present delicate spiciness or fruit notes.
- Palate: Warm and engaging, revealing layers of caramel, vanilla, and toasted oak. Deeper notes might include cinnamon, nutmeg, and ripe fruits.
- Finish: Long and smooth, leaving a lingering sweetness.
Awards & Recognition:
Specific major international awards for "Blind Burro Rum" are not widely publicized. However, its unique backstory and craft production appeal to a growing market segment.
Overall Impression:
Blind Burro Rum offers an intriguing blend of geographical origins and historical narrative. Whether you choose the crisp and versatile White Rum for your favorite cocktails or the richer, more complex aged blend for sipping, Blind Burro promises a flavorful journey. It's a spirit for those who appreciate a good story behind their drink and seek a rum that balances Caribbean tradition with a distinctive Californian touch.
