Cruzan Dark Rum Aged 2 Years: The Rich, Smooth Soul of St. Croix, Perfect for Sipping and Mixing
Uncover the exquisite depth and balanced character of Cruzan Dark Rum Aged 2 Years, a staple spirit from the legendary Cruzan Distillery on St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands. With a heritage spanning over 250 years, Cruzan is celebrated for its commitment to crafting authentic, high-quality rums. This Aged Dark Rum is a carefully blended selection of rums that have been matured for a minimum of two to four years in heavily charred American oak casks that previously held bourbon. This patient aging process imparts its inviting deep mahogany hue, a rich aromatic profile, and a full-bodied, smooth taste with no harsh "burn or bite." It's the kind of refined dark rum that put St. Croix on the map, offering exceptional versatility for both savoring neat and enriching your favorite cocktails.
Key Characteristics:
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Aged 2-4 Years: A blend of rums aged for a minimum of two years in charred American oak (ex-bourbon) barrels, developing significant depth and complexity.
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Charred Oak Cask Maturation: The use of charred barrels contributes to its deep color, rich flavor, and notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak.
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St. Croix Origin: Proudly produced by the historic Cruzan Distillery on St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands, a cornerstone of Caribbean rum production.
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Molasses-Based Rum: Crafted from high-quality molasses, providing a traditional and robust rum base.
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Rich Color & Texture: Possesses a deep mahogany hue and a smooth, medium-bodied mouthfeel.
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Versatile Spirit (80 Proof / 40% ABV): Exceptionally smooth for sipping on the rocks or neat, and robust enough to be the perfect base for dark rum cocktails like an Old Fashioned, Rum & Cola, or a classic Daiquiri.
Tasting Notes:
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Appearance: Deep, inviting mahogany.
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Nose: Deep, rich tones emboldened by age with prominent oak notes, hints of caramel, molasses, and vanilla. A subtle spice or tobacco note may also be present.
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Palate: Well-rounded with a buttery mouthfeel and pleasant wood tones. Flavors of rich toffee, brown sugar, and vanilla are complemented by hints of dark chocolate and a touch of spice (like cinnamon or nutmeg), creating a harmonious and well-balanced profile.
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Finish: Smooth, satisfying, and enduring, leaving lingering traces of oak, subtle sweetness, and a gentle warmth.
Awards & Recognition:
Cruzan Dark Rum Aged 2 Years has consistently been recognized for its quality and value:
- Gold Medal, San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2011
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Gold Medal & Best Buy, Tasting International Review of Spirits 2015 (92 points)
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Silver Medal, Los Angeles International Spirits Competition 2015
- Highly recommended by various spirits publications and reviewers for its value and versatility.
Overall Impression:
Cruzan Dark Rum Aged 2 Years is a superb example of a well-crafted aged rum that delivers on all fronts. Its meticulous maturation process in charred oak barrels results in a spirit of remarkable depth, smoothness, and flavor. With its rich history from St. Croix and a consistent track record of winning prestigious awards, Cruzan Dark Rum is a reliable and beloved staple for any rum enthusiast. Whether you're enjoying its nuanced character on the rocks, pairing it with cola, or using it to elevate your favorite rum cocktails, this spirit offers a deliciously authentic taste of the Caribbean.