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Review #: 545
Description: Raising Glasses Manora 2014 Thailand Blend
Spirit: Rum
Background:
My first taste of Thai rum! I’ve actually learned a little about Thai culture as I have recently started training Muay Thai, so I’m definitely excited to try this. This is a blend of 2 different casks by Raising Glasses. “Manora” is from a Thai play about a half human/half bird that was captured and a prince fell in love with her. Manora is often played by a male actor and this rum celebrates the acceptance of LGBTQ especially with having a “male” and “female” cask blended together. They were distilled from molasses in a column still and aged 5 years in Thailand and 4 in the UK. 5% of profits from the sale of this bottle goes to Thailand’s Love Foundation to aid LGBTQ equality. Good on RG for these charitable contributions from their products.
Full disclosure, this sample was provided to me by a friend with connections to Raising Glasses (not employed by them though). The samples were provided to get my honest feedback. My thoughts are my own.
Distillery – Undisclosed
Bottler – Raising Glasses
Brand – Raising Glasses
Selection – N/A
ABV – 55%
Age – 9 Years
Nose – Raw coconut, some earthy sweetness, morning dew, ripe apple, vanilla pound cake
Taste – Vanilla pound cake, slightly bland caramel, raw red apple
Finish – Apple starts to sour, some grassy notes, touch of charred oak
Score: 5
Would I buy a bottle? $35 isn’t a bad price (for a half bottle) but first impressions didn’t super wow me.
Thoughts: Definitely an interesting blend and fun to try something from a whole different part of the world compared to anything else I’ve had. The apple and pound cake notes were extremely distinct which I always enjoy not having to work so hard to pull out a note. The finish just left me wanting a little bit more. I do love the story behind it and absolutely support their cause.