Cartavio 12 ans solera is a traditional "ron" distilled from molasses, and aged using the solera technique (like sherry wines in Andalusia) so that it is actually a blend of rums that are between 5 years old for the youngest, and 15 years old for the oldest.
Nico's tasting notes
In brief: wood - roasting - sweet spices - roundness
On the nose, a small solvent announces a relatively concentrated rum. Toasted wood and its trusty nuts take center stage, backed by a hint of licorice molasses. Caramel and vanilla are also present, but the nose is quite assertive, not sweet.
With aeration, the rum gains in harmony, taking on the form of a woody maple syrup loaded with notes that are alternately sweet and roasted. Nuts are well caramelized and sprinkled with sweet spices. Molasses flows over toasted wood. The rum does not deviate from its style, which, it must be said, it masters rather well.
The palate is gourmand, as one might expect. It is gently woody and caressed by caramel and vanilla. The rum is round and balanced, very typical of the sweet Latino style, but with a measure that makes it simply delicious. The toasted wood eventually releases coconut aromas, the overall mood is less toasty than on the nose.
The finish is rather well maintained, with a caramelized, vanilla woodiness that always brings to mind a good caramel or maple syrup.
"This Peruvian has mastered his subject, and will delight lovers of charming, gourmet rones..."
