Causing A Stir...  

Fans of Venezuela’s Don Juan Nieto Melendez – the 'face' of Diplomático Rum – prepare yourself: there’s a new expression set for release.

It’s a little expensive, not as much as Ambassador of course, and its presented in the heavy decanter-style bottle, with a weighty stopper just like its predecessors. It’s in the same tasting style as the previous Single Vintage releases – instantly recognizable – sweetened (17.5g sugar/litre) of course but more controlled than the Reserva Exclusiva and Ambassador, and it presents itself differently to others I recall.

A 1cl sample is hardly enough to write a review about, but considering I’d been enjoying cask strength, nicely matured Agricole at the Paris RhumFest, the fact that the new Single Vintage still stood out in a positive way (whereas a lot of so-so molasses rums just disappeared into the background of ‘meh’) was the main point that struck me. I recall a nice sherry fruit vibe and a feeling of being impressed. Looking forward to taking another sip outside of a three-day long rum festival.

A press release follows for the brand details.

Press Release: April 11th, 2018 – Award-winning Diplomático Rum announces the release of their much awaited 2004 Single Vintage rum. This new Vintage will accompany the Ambassador as part of the brand’s Prestige Range, which are blends from Diplomático’s most exclusive reserves and produced in limited quantities.

Diplomático Single Vintage is crafted from a selection of special rum reserves selected by the Maestros Roneros (Master Blenders) for their distinctive character. Distilled in vintage copper pot stills in 2004, the rum is then aged for twelve years in American white oak casks that previously served to age bourbon and whisky. After the ageing process, the Maestros Roneros carefully blend the rum in order to obtain the structure, body, personality, flavours and aromas that they are looking for. Finally, the rum spends a year in Oloroso Sherry casks to provide the perfect finish.

Maestro Ronero Nelson Hernández is particularly excited about the 2004 Vintage release. “The 2004 is slightly more dry and oaky than that of previous years. This rum shows a rich aromatic profile with notes of vanilla, coffee and chocolate. On the palate, it is well balanced and incredibly flavoursome, with toasted wood and spicy notes, and given its complex flavour profile and lasting finish, it is recommended to be savoured neat,” said Hernández. “In a time where the ultra-premium rum category is entering the spotlight, and rum is finally being recognized as a quality sipping spirit, we are looking forward to seeing the 2004 Single Vintage reach its fullest potential.”

As the latest release in Diplomático’s Ultra-Premium lineup, the 2004 Single Vintage will come in new, enhanced packaging to reflect its quality and category. Less than 4,000 nine-litre cases of this limited-edition expression will be available globally. The product will be commercialized in Diplomático’s distribution markets starting in May through traditional channels and later this year in key travel retail outlets. The 2004 Single Vintage has a standard retail price of 100€ /$120.