Virgin Gorda is a blend of 3 molasses rums, all in the English tradition, from 3 different islands: Barbados, Trinidad & Tobago and Jamaica.
These rums are aged for an average of 7 years in bourbon casks before being blended. No additives have been added (no caramel, no flavoring).
Trinidad provides freshness and vanilla notes. Jamaican rum adds body. Finally, Barbados rum provides woodiness (it's the oldest of the 3 rums in the blend, aged for 8 years).
Nico's tasting notes
Summary: exotic fruits - vanilla - toasted wood - red fruits - spices - sweet
The nose opens with a light solvent typical of traditional English rums. Slowly, it continues to open up to exotic fruits ripening under the nose. The profile is fresh and light, with a hint of herbs and vegetation in the form of a green banana, linking to the fruit character that continues to ripen as the rum airs.
After a good aeration, the exotic fruits come into their own. They land on a mellow carpet of almond, yeast and tea. Crushed red fruit adds vivacity and acidity. Vanilla brings balance, its roundness counterbalancing the slight acidity of the fruit. Orange zest wraps everything up with a gourmand touch.
On the palate, the thick, ripe banana immediately gives the rum a savory edge. Other exotic fruits come to the fore, contained by a woody/vanilla pairing. The palate sensation becomes spicier on the mid-palate, opening the way to sweet vanilla caramel.
The finish is sweet too, like cane sugar syrup. The fruit is light and the vanilla sticks to the lips for a long time.
Lyv
Excellent
customer
Interesting discovery
romain
Virgin Gorda is an example of the little rum we love for its simplicity. First of all, its uniqueness comes from its color. It's a golden color, whereas you might expect a more amber one. At least we can be sure that no caramel coloring has been added.
On the nose, the rum is simple and delicious. Woody, vanilla notes quickly make their appearance. Then come aromas of caramel and brioche.
The palate is quite identical to the nose. There's a slight milky aftertaste that's not at all unpleasant. Virgin Gorda is more of a sweet rum. The degree of alcohol (40%) is not noticeable. It's well integrated.
Excellent value for money for a 7-year-old rum with no additions. It may be criticized for its limited aromatic palette. Personally, I don't think you need 12 aromas to have a good rum. Virgin Gorda's simplicity is its strength.
Good persistence in the glass. More caramelized vanilla sugar and wood.
It will appeal to gourmets, to those who like Don Papa 7 ans (unless you like it for its chemical side). Personally, this rum made me want a tarte tatin to go with it for the next tasting.
This blend is a success
4/5