Havana Club Añejo Especial Rum

Havana Club Añejo Especial Rum: A Deep Dive into a Cuban Classic

Havana Club Añejo Especial is a golden rum, bottled sunshine in a way, that embodies the spirit of Cuba. Aged to perfection by Maestros del Ron Cubano (Cuban Rum Masters), this expression offers a smooth and inviting flavour profile, perfect for sipping neat, on the rocks, or as the base for classic cocktails.

A Rich and Balanced Aroma

On the nose, the Havana Club Añejo Especial greets you with a delightful interplay of aromas. Vanilla, the star of the show, mingles with hints of caramel and honey, creating a warm and inviting first impression. As you delve deeper, a touch of zesty orange peel peeks through, adding a touch of brightness. Subtle notes of cinnamon and baking spice add complexity, while a hint of oak from the ageing barrels lends a touch of earthiness. The overall impression is one of richness and balance, a promise of a flavourful journey to come.

A Smooth and Delectable Taste

The first sip of Havana Club Añejo Especial delivers on the promise of the aroma. The rum washes over the palate with a wave of smooth sweetness, dominated by the comforting flavours of vanilla and honey. The influence of the oak barrels becomes more apparent here, adding a subtle dryness that complements the sweetness beautifully. Hints of cinnamon and nutmeg dance on the tongue, adding a touch of warmth and complexity. The citrus notes from the orange peel are more subtle on the taste, but linger pleasantly on the finish, providing a refreshing counterpoint to the richer flavours.

A Long and Lingering Finish

The finish of Havana Club Añejo Especial is long and satisfying. The sweetness recedes slowly, leaving behind a lingering warmth from the spices and a touch of oaky dryness. The citrus notes make a final appearance, ensuring a refreshing and clean aftertaste. This lingering presence invites you to savour each sip and contemplate the masterful blending that went into creating this rum.

Serving Suggestions

Havana Club Añejo Especial is a versatile rum that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Here are a few suggestions:

• Neat: Pour a shot of Havana Club Añejo Especial into a rocks glass or snifter and sip it neat. This allows you to fully appreciate the rum's complex flavour profile.
• On the Rocks: Fill a rocks glass with ice cubes and pour in Havana Club Añejo Especial. The ice will slowly melt, diluting the rum slightly and opening up its flavours further.
• Cuba Libre: This classic Cuban cocktail is the perfect way to showcase the versatility of Havana Club Añejo Especial. In a highball glass, combine 50ml of Havana Club Añejo Especial, 100ml of cola, a squeeze of fresh lime juice, and fill with ice. Garnish with a lime wedge.
• Daiquiri: For a refreshing twist, try a Daiquiri. Combine 50ml of Havana Club Añejo Especial, 25ml fresh lime juice, and 12.5ml simple syrup in a shaker filled with ice. Shake well and strain into a chilled coupe glass.
• Old Fashioned: Havana Club Añejo Especial can even hold its own in a sophisticated Old Fashioned. Combine 50ml of Havana Club Añejo Especial, a dash of Angostura bitters, and a sugar cube (or simple syrup to taste) in a rocks glass. Muddle the sugar cube with the bitters, then fill the glass with ice and stir gently. Garnish with an orange peel.

In Conclusion

Havana Club Añejo Especial is a superb golden rum that delivers exceptional value for money. Its smooth and inviting flavour profile, characterised by vanilla, caramel, and subtle hints of spice and citrus, makes it a pleasure to sip neat or on the rocks. Its versatility also shines through in classic cocktails, where it adds depth and character to the drink. Whether you're a seasoned rum aficionado or just starting to explore the world of rum, Havana Club Añejo Especial is a must-try.