Plantation 5 Year Old Barbados Rum

Seeing as the Plantation 20th Anniversary XO is one of my favourite rums, I thought I would try the much cheaper 5 year old, if for no other reason to compare and contrast. Wow, what a let down in comparison! That’s because this 5 year old is disgusting. It’s so inferior to the XO that I’m genuinely shocked that these two completely different rums are produced by the same distillery! On the palate this 5 year rum old has plenty of sweetness to it, but no real distinguishing flavour to speak of, so it just comes across as rather bland. Then you’ve got the fact that the alcohol burn is too harsh, making this very unpleasant to stomach. Then, on top of all that, if things weren’t already bad enough, in the finish this rum possesses a horrid taste. Full disclosure, I’m struggling how best to describe said taste, but think of spiced apple and you won’t be a million miles away from the truth. Oh, did I forget to mention that the finish is weird as well as being awful!

Brought this as a gift for partner and we both fell in love with this, with mixer or on the rocks cant go wrong!

I got a bottle from my kids.
Lovely smooth sip with developing flavours. Gentle and smooth.

Very happy with this.

At the £30 price range this is a sold rum, smooth with a delicate taste, after opening I bought a bottle of plantation xo which I am yet to try but if the 5 year is anything to go but It should be good.

Sweet and smoothe, another of my favourite Caribbean rums.

I found the Plantation 5 year rum a smooth and enjoyable drink. I made into a long drink, with Orange juice, Coke or Coconut Water with a splash of Lime.I also enjoyed with a large ice cube, yes I will be ordering again 🥃

On its own, or gently covered (equal measures) with a Diet Coke or Fever Tree Ginger Ale, Plantation 5 Year Old Barbados Grande Reserve is well worthy of note. It stands its ground when first approached, and once its warmth and smoothness has caressed your lucky throat and taste buds, it should be welcomed with open arms. I shall make sure there is always a bottle of this master-of-all-occasions in my drinks cave (and a spare to replace the last drop).

It's well worth the price tag and I would point anyone after a distinct flavour profile and quality tibble in its direction as a start off.

Nose is very caramel and coconut. A little banana. Definitely a sweet one.
Initially sweet but mellows to a more spicy, leathery taste. Could be a nice match with dessert as it's so sweet.
Finish is sweet and spicy.

One of the smoothest rums you’ll find. Very sweet, caramel with raisin.
Most enjoyable.