Local rum, not just for coke anymore: Waterpocket Distillery Blanco Rum

Encountered frequently are those who think rum exists only to spice up your cola, but with so many sub-par offerings and shady marketing it's hard to blame them. Finding the really good stuff takes know-how and luck; and we here in the City of Salt, are very lucky. indeed There has long been a saying: "there's a rum for everyone, they just don't know it yet"; and after sifting through many offerings both local and not, we made a discovery. Waterpocket Distillery's Blanco Rum may just be that rum. The fine people at Waterpocket have created a reputation for doing things the hard way, often to beautiful results; and this time is no different. Made with USA Turbinado sugar and molasses, fermented and distilled in house, then bottled at 50% abv. This rum brings a lot to the table with bright, complex flavors and aromas, and is perfectly suited to be the star of the show.

This show begins as soon as it hits the glass, with strong notes of tropical fruit, spice and a very interesting hint of green apple. Upon tasting, the fruit notes come full circle with a nice spiciness. The alcohol burn is minimal for a spirit of 100 proof, but it is just present enough to let you know it means business. This fades into grassy notes, followed by an earthy, sweet finish. This is a rum perfectly suited to classic cocktails and tiki drinks, and should be a staple in any local's home bar. Even in a side by side tasting with a much higher dollar 50% abv agricole style rhum, it was astounding just how comparable they were, with the Blanco having a much less pronounced burn and smoother finish. We find this rum really shines in a classic Daiquiri, we feel that Mr. Hemingway would approve.

Spirit Guides Cocktail: Capitol Reef Daiquiri 

- 2 oz Waterpocket Distillery Blanco Rum 

- 1/2 oz Lillet Blanc

- 1/2 oz Lime Juice

- 1/2 oz grapefruit juice

- 1/4 oz simple syrup

- Dash of bitters

Combine ingredients in a shaker, shake until frosty. Strain into a chilled coupe, enjoy.

Summary:

Nose:

- Sugarcane

- Spice

- Tropical Fruit

- Green Apple

Palate:

- Tropical fruit, hints of banana

- Spice

- Vegetal, grassy 

Finish:

- Earthy sweetness

- Dry, but not astringent.  

Availability: General Distribution

Price: $26.99, on sale through July at $20.99

Verdict: This is a rum you need on your shelf. Perfect for those summertime cocktails!

As always, keep the spirit.

-Steve E

Spirit Guides Resident Rum Guy & Keeper of Tiki