AH Riise Black Barrel Navy Spiced Rum is a rum infused with a secret blend of carefully selected spices. It is then aged for a long period in charred oak barrels which give it this very dark color and give it marked aromas of vanilla.
Nico's tasting notes
On the nose, this rum has a distinctly dark profile, like a strong espresso, but with a generous spoonful of sugar. So far, the "spiced" aspect isn't particularly pronounced, compared to other rums from the brand. The cinnamon adds a slightly powdery note, and the overall impression is quite powerful. There are hints of ripe tropical fruit and a touch of wood. The spices are still somewhat restrained at this stage. There's a touch of pepper, but the intensity soon gives way to sweetness. Vanilla prevails, along with the characteristic cola note typical of AH Riise. Then, caramel and banana toffee emphasize the smooth character.
Aeration allows other aromas to emerge. The caramelized aspect is still present, but it's not alone. Then, in no particular order, come dried apricots, marzipan, candied fruit, and prunes in brandy. Cinnamon acts as a unifying thread; it's quite balanced and a rather sophisticated spiced whisky. The spices become increasingly prominent, always led by the cinnamon. Dried orange peel adds a touch of variety, while the cola and pepper notes remain.
The attack on the palate is very round, but quickly balanced by cocoa and molasses. A few fruit sweets follow in quick succession before the clove takes hold of the taste buds and takes over. Now it's time for the spices: cinnamon, nutmeg, the classic spices of mulled wine at the Christmas market, followed by a little herbal caramel tea to warm up.
The finish doesn't spoil the wintry ambience, with a blend of orange, vanilla, coffee and caramel, quite warm and persistent.
