ZACAPA - Solera - Gran Reserva - 40 %
The Zacapa house, born in the highlands of Guatemala, has established itself as one of the world’s leading references for tasting rum thanks to a unique know-how combining noble raw materials and aging at altitude. Made from virgin cane honey rather than molasses, Zacapa benefits from a natural aromatic richness that immediately sets it apart. The aging takes place in the cellars of Quetzaltenango, perched at more than two thousand three hundred meters altitude, where the coolness slows evaporation and allows a slow and harmonious development of aromas. The Solera technique, inspired by the world of great fortified wines, allows the blending of rums of various ages, offering rare complexity while maintaining great softness in texture. Gran Reserva embodies the soul of this method, bringing together the best of several maturation stages in bourbon, sherry, and sweet wine casks. This cuvée illustrates the elegance, roundness, and balance that have made Zacapa internationally renowned.
Zacapa Solera Gran Reserva 40% is made from virgin cane honey, slowly fermented to preserve its fruity and smooth character. The gentle distillation aims to preserve the natural creaminess of the distillate, which is then patiently aged according to the solera system. The different types of casks used act as layers of flavors: bourbon barrels bring vanilla and coconut, those that contained sherry offer dried fruits and oxidative sweetness, while wine casks provide depth and a coppery hue. The final blend aims for perfect harmony between richness, sweetness, and structure, without heaviness. The reduction to forty percent reveals the full aromatic palette with great accessibility, making this rum enjoyable for both a seasoned enthusiast and a first-time discovery. Gran Reserva is designed as a tasting rum, elegant, controlled, intended to combine indulgence and refinement.
On tasting, Zacapa Gran Reserva shows a deep mahogany color with ruby highlights, announcing great aromatic concentration. The nose unfolds notes of vanilla, brown caramel, fig, date, and dried fruits, enriched by nuances of milk chocolate, mild spices, and polished wood. On the palate, the attack is ample and silky, with controlled sweetness blending honey, candied plum, light cocoa, and a touch of roasted hazelnut. The texture is round, almost creamy, but supported by a discreet freshness that avoids any heaviness. The finish is persistent, enveloping, marked by accents of caramel, raisins, mocha, and a spicy hint that prolongs the pleasure. Served neat or on a large ice cube, it ideally accompanies a chocolate dessert, a dried fruit tart, a mild cigar, or sweet and savory cuisine around duck or caramelized pork.
