Chairman's Reserve Original Rum 700ml

Chairman's Reserve Original Rum, first blended in 1999, is a remarkable expression of Saint Lucian rum, crafted under the guidance of Laurie Barnard, the then Chairman. It represents a harmonious marriage of aged rums distilled from both Coffey column stills and copper pot stills. These rums are aged separately by batch and type of still in ex-Bourbon barrels before being blended and rested in oak vats for an additional six months, with the average age of the blend being 5 years. This meticulous process yields a rum that is rich dark amber in color, exuding aromas of cooked banana, caramelized fruits, and spicy oak-derived vanilla. The palate is well-balanced, enveloping flavors of chocolate, golden raisin, tobacco, and clove, culminating in a long, creamy finish. This flagship rum is celebrated for its finesse, style, and character, making it ideal for both cocktails and sipping experiences​ (chairmansreserverum)​.

The rum has garnered acclaim for its complexity and versatility, recommended to be savored neat to fully appreciate its array of flavors, which include varnished wood, toffee apple, tobacco, festive fruitcake, barbequed banana stuffed with chocolate buttons, rum and raisin ice cream, coffee, and oaky woodsmoke. It also excels in elevating classic rum cocktails, such as the Daiquiri, to new heights​ (Harvey Nichols)​.

In addition, a review from 2018 highlights the rum's distinct characteristics, noting its bold and aggressive palate with ample hogo (a term referring to the earthy, funky flavors associated with pot-still rum), complemented by notes of burnt matches, cooked fruit, and coconut husk. The initial funk gives way to a surfeit of fruit flavors, including green banana, coconut, apricot, and some fleeting floral notes on the finish. Its sweetness and complexity make it enjoyable on its own, while its robustness allows it to shine in more intricate tiki drinks​ (Drinkhacker)​.