Planteray Barbados 5 Year Rum

Planteray Barbados 5 Year Rum, originally known as Plantation Rum, hails from the West Indies Rum Distillery in Barbados, an island with a rum-making history stretching back to the 17th century. The Planteray brand, part of Maison Ferrand, is renowned for its signature double-aging process. This particular expression first matures in ex-bourbon casks in the tropical climate of Barbados for three to four years before journeying to France to spend another one to two years in French oak casks that previously held Ferrand Cognac. This method imparts a distinct smoothness and complexity, with notes of tropical fruit, vanilla, and caramel, making it a versatile spirit for both sipping and crafting exceptional cocktails. The West Indies Rum Distillery itself was established in 1893 and is a significant producer on the island. In early 2024, Plantation Rum transitioned to the name Planteray, a change reflecting the brand's connection to sugarcane and sunshine while addressing and moving away from the negative connotations associated with the word "plantation." The rum itself, however, remains the same celebrated spirit.

So, Planteray Barbados 5 Year, right? It’s got this lovely dance of baked orchard fruits, a bit of toasty marshmallow, and a hint of sweet spice from its time in bourbon and Cognac casks. A real gem for your home bar, this one shines in a Daiquiri or gives a tropical lift to more complex builds, making it a solid choice when selecting craft spirits and cocktail ingredients.

Expect initial wafts of sweet vanilla, brown sugar, and tropical fruits like ripe banana, giving way to subtle oak and coconut. The first sip is surprisingly sweet with molasses and caramel, balanced by toasted coconut and a hint of warming cinnamon. It finishes with a pleasant, medium-length warmth, leaving lingering notes of oak and tropical fruit.