Abuelo 2 Oaks is a rum aged 12 years in 2 different casks.
The first is an American ex-bourbon oak barrel (the same type used for the classic Abuelo 12).
The second is a new American white oak barrel specially worked by the cooper to age Abuelo. It is first grooved to increase the contact surface between the rum and the barrel. It is then toasted to release the aromas (notably vanilla), first at 180° for 1 hour, then at 220°.
Nico's tasting notes
On the nose, the influence of American oak predominates. It does so beautifully, with soft wood, vanilla, blond tobacco, toasted coconut and a certain sweetness that enriches these aromas.
Aeration gives the rum a slightly more conquering side, which then brings out the pepper and smoke. The tobacco is a little browner, and the cane molasses brandy shows a fine concentration, even if the roundness is still palpable.
On the palate, the rum is terribly tasty. Once again, it's the American oak that does most of the work, and we've really made the most of its qualities. With a light smoky attack, the aromas of vanilla, coconut, oily wood and tobacco are truly delicious.
The finish maintains this greediness with a certain sweet roundness.
"A rum that draws all its deliciousness from American oak, a fine example of the style that this wood can give..."
On video
This rum is part of the Rhums Doux discovery pack which we tasted live with Latin rum specialist Marc Goubert in a video on our Youtube channel.
MELODY
Tasty rum....excellent