Discover the Bold Flavors of Zacapa Gran Reserva Edicion Negra Rum
What about this Zacapa Gran Reserva Edicion Negra rum? You already know the story: Zacapa has now become an icon of rum, a “mainstream” drink.
It is made in the hills of Guatemala and is one of the smoothest and softest rums on the market.
It is an agricultural rum, which means that it is produced from sugar cane juice, the so-called miel virgen, and then aged in barrels used to produce sherry and Bourbon with the solera method.
So, the different vintages can age in different barrels and be mixed to get the right balance and amount of spice.
Tasting notes
However, thanks to aging in heavily smoked barrels, this “black edition” has a more pronounced smoky flavor, distinguishing it from the classic “Zacapa 23 normal” pleasure.
It has a tropical bouquet and is very rich with dried fruit, as if it were raining. There are also endless notes of caramel, tobacco, coffee, licorice, custard, spices, and vanilla. But most of all, it is the smoke in the background that gives it clarity and a unique smell.
It definitely doesn’t have a natural and slim step; in fact, it’s a bit heavy, with hints of peat from Scotch and grit from Bourbon, but it’s a very nice addition to the Zacapa world.
Especially for those who don’t like the caramel style of the classic Zacapa.
It’s a rum that lets you glimpse paradise and then leaves you on the threshold, but if you serve it with chocolate, coffee desserts, orange chocolate, or tangerine peel covered in dark chocolate, it’s a pleasure.
The verdict
Promoted, it has personality and style, making it a courageous product. But with a caveat: it’s a rum that displaces; it needs to be framed for a moment. If you love the usual Zacapa, it might not be what you are looking for, but if you want a breath of “roasted” air, it is a drink to try.
The cocktail to make
A super-deluxe Dark and Stormy you will never forget.
Food Pairings
- Dark chocolate: This rum and chocolate duo is a match made in heaven! The smoky notes of the rum perfectly complement the richness of dark chocolate. Go ahead and indulge in a chocolate truffle or a lava cake to really bring out the flavors.
- Coffee desserts: Coffee and rum are a match made in caffeinated heaven! Pair this rum with a coffee-flavored dessert like tiramisu or a coffee panna cotta to highlight the coffee notes in the rum.
- Citrus desserts: The tropical bouquet of the rum is perfectly complemented by the zesty flavors of citrus. Try pairing it with a tangy orange chocolate or some tangerine peel covered in dark chocolate for a truly delightful experience.
- Sharp, aged cheese: The bold flavors of this rum are a perfect match for a sharp and tangy cheese like cheddar or Parmesan. Take a bite of cheese and a sip of rum for a flavor explosion!
- Grilled meats: The smoky flavors in this rum make it a perfect match for bold and flavorful grilled meats. Try it with marinated chicken or beef to really bring out the flavors of the rum.
- Spicy dishes: The spice in this rum can stand up to spicy dishes like jerk chicken or beef stir-fry. So, go ahead and turn up the heat with these fiery pairings