Post #298720 by GentleHangman on Thu, Apr 12, 2007 2:56 PM

Scottes: Gosh! I'm not an expert, but here goes:

Appleton Estates 21
Smoothness: Quite smooth to my palate definitely a sipping rum yet still lets you know it's there, but doesn't feel like a 'burn' to me.
Complexity: Quite complex but possessing a delicate nature as well. And while I'm not expert enough to identify the different flavors, no single one seems overpowering - it is vary harmonious.

Smokey barrel taste: It's not as oak-heavy as the Saint James Hors D'Age but is still there in the background which to me adds a certain 'character'.

I normally use Appleton Estates VX paired with the Saint James Hors D'Age to make My Mai Tais but I also have made a Mai Tai or two using just the Appleton Estate 21 - my reasoning being if a 17-year-old Wray and Nephew was used for TV's original . . . the 21 year old should produce the same results or even better. Not so! The VX and Hors D'Age tasted much better. I guess that Martinique blend of very old rums has that something 'extra' needed for the best Mai Tai combination. However, I've yet to try one made with the 21 and Hors D'Age cause I might fall down and not be able to get up!