Blackwell Jamaican Black Gold Rum

If “Red Red Wine” just doesn’t do it for you and you “Still Haven’t Found What You’re Looking For,” Blackwell Jamaican Rum may be the answer.

What do Bob Marley, Bono, and Blackwell Jamaican Rum have in common? Chris Blackwell founded Island Records in 1959 in Jamaica. Island Records went on to become arguably THE most successful independent record company in history, introducing Reggae legend Bob Marley to the world and signing a young Irish band—U2—long before they were known to anyone, along with many, many others.

Once the record business was sold, Chris Blackwell returned to Jamaica where his family had been traders and Rum distillers for generations. In fact, his mother’s family owned famous Rum producers J. Wray and Nephew and Appleton Estate. So it seems natural that he founded his eponymous Blackwell Jamaican Rum in 2006 with the same sense of savvy independence he brought to his record company.

Blackwell has only one product, but we think that is kinda’ cool. Do one thing, and do it well, right? For this singular Rum expression, Chris worked with master Rum blender Joy Spence to create a classic Dark Rum that is sugar-cane based and ready to rock. They call their special blend “Black Gold” and based it on a traditional recipe.

The results are pretty impressive. Although Blackwell is a younger, cane-based Rum it has a great taste complexity like you would get form an older, blackstrap-based sipper. The flavor profile sits balanced between a heavy molasses-based rum, and light “white” Rum, and a spice Rum … all without any artificial additives or other yucky things. This could be exactly what you are looking for.

Tasting Note

Appearance / Color
Deep Amber

Nose / Aroma / Smell
Wet and sweet with a mild spice

Flavor / Taste / Palate
Toasted marshmallow with clove and nutmeg

Finish
Smooth with a hint of spice