The Rum Triangle Vol. 3

The Rum Triangle isn’t just geography—it’s a flavor map. These three rums each tell a story from a different corner of the sugarcane belt, where heritage distilling meets tropical climate and time-honored technique.

From the lush island of Negros in the Philippines, Don Papa Small Batch Rum is aged in American oak ex-Bourbon barrels and distilled from sugarcane grown on volcanic soil. Expect bright vanilla, honey, and candied fruit notes with a splash of citrus on the finish. It’s a sweet and sunny introduction to the box.

Ten To One Oloroso Sherry Cask Finish offers a rich blend of Caribbean rums finished in Oloroso Sherry casks. The result is a layered sip of dried fruit, vanilla, almond, and a subtle nuttiness—elegant, deep, and expressive.

And finally, the Dominican Republic's Brugal 1888 Doblemente Añejo is a masterclass in double aging. First matured in ex-Bourbon casks, then finished in Spanish sherry oak, it brings dry fruit, nutmeg, and smoky wood to the table.

Three countries. Three rums. One legendary triangle of taste.

SMARTASS CORNER:

1. The "Rum Triangle" isn't an official term, but it lovingly refers to the powerhouse producers in the Caribbean and surrounding regions where sugarcane thrives.

2. Don Papa Rum is named after Papa Isio, a Filipino revolutionary and folk hero. The brand's home, Negros Island, is also known as "Sugarlandia."

3. Oloroso sherry casks, typically used in aging fine Scotch, add nutty, rich flavors when used for rum finishing.

4. Brugal has been producing rum in the Dominican Republic since 1888, and their double aging process gives the 1888 its name.

5. Rum is made from sugarcane juice or molasses, with the base ingredient often defining the rum's flavor profile.

6. Spanish-style rums like these tend to be lighter and sweeter, while English- or French-style rums often lean funkier or grassier.

7. The "angel's share" is the portion of rum lost to evaporation during aging, and it can be up to 10% per year in tropical climates.

8. Ten To One blends rums from several Caribbean countries to create layered, modern expressions that celebrate the region's diversity.