Review #: 468
Description: Holmes Cay Belize 2005: Rochester Barrel Pickers
Spirit: Rum
Background: This single cask rum was distilled in Belize by Travellers Liquors in 2005 and spent all 15 years in a bourbon cask in the tropics before being bottled. Selected by Rochester Barrel Pickers, it is cask strength with no additives.
Distillery – Travellers Liquors
Bottler – Holmes Cay
Brand – Holmes Cay
Selection – Rochester Barrel Pickers
ABV – 61%
Age – 15 Years
Nose – Holy crap, so much coconut. Straight Almond Joy candy bar. I literally can’t get anything but chocolate, almond, and coconut. Maybe some slight fruit?
Taste – Chocolate, sweet coconut, cherry cordial, strong oak, rich and sweet but maintains a great balance
Finish – Toasted coconut, cocoa powder, torched cherry, tobacco, really nice oak structure
Score: 9
Would I buy a bottle? Absolutely. This retailed at $110 and well worth it.
Thoughts: I have never been hit with such a distinct coconut note and been so able to relate to a tasting experience as this with an almond joy. Frankly, the only knock on this is how close it is and that I just can’t get anything else out of it. But if you like the candy, you will love this rum. Great flavor, proof in check, and oak is well balanced. Absolutely lovely.