Maui Gold and Dark Rums

[RobertBurr]

I've just received bottles of Maui Gold, Dark and White rums from Kimo Kealaloa of Haleakala Distillers (http://www.mauirum.biz) of Hawaii. I'll post some notes here as I spend some time with them.

Kimo recently won awards in tasting competitions for his dark and gold rums. These rums, as well as "Da Bomb" high octane rum, are available only in Hawaii as far as I know. Has anyone seen these rums in local retailers?

[tym2relax]

I would be curious what you think about these rums Robert. I found that they cannot ship to the mainland (for now) so it's not easy to buy.

Since I will be over there later in the year I contacted them to see if it's possible to visit the distillery. Kimo is surfing now, so I'll have to wait awhile for an answer...:cool:

[RumBarPhilly]

At Ybor City, I got to take these bottles home, the only bidder on Maui rums!! So I got the dark and Braddah Kimo's Da Bomb... I think what I love best about that rum (of course I havent tried em yet) is its labeling. It almost looks like they were running out of room when writing Braddah Kimo, as the type gets smaller and smaller haha!! Thats great!

Although I havent tried em yet, when I eventually do, I can let you know.

[primate77]

I don't know how long he's been making this rum, but you'd think with all the liquid restrictions on flights now has been somewhat of a damper on his "trade" off the islands?

You'd think every rum-loving Mainlander would tote off as many on a plane under his/her arm they could carry without restrictions.

[RobertBurr]

They can't ship "Da Bomb" overproof, so you'll have to enjoy it there.

[rumdog007]

RobBurr is correct, I just got a "3 Pack", too (Silver/Gold/Dark) 2 days ago delivered to SoCal. Nothing over 100 proof can go by air, so not Da Bomb. I've had them all before. I like the Gold the best, overall. The Dark is on par with the Goslings Black Seal with a tad of Meyer's Dark mixed in. The Silver is a good mixing rum, similar IMO to the Monticristo Blanco.

[RobertBurr]

the dark is lovely, rich and elegant. the gold is sweet, flavorful and interesting. The Platinum, I'll have to get back to you later,...

[The Rum Ambassador]

Damn, I just found a botle of the Maui gold in my collection. I think I picked one up at Ybor in 2006. Wasn'y it in the competiton Rob ?

[RobertBurr]

Damn, I just found a bottle of the Maui gold in my collection. I think I picked one up at Ybor in 2006. Wasn't it in the competition Rob ?

Yes, I believe it was at Ybor City in 2006. I recall these rums have evolved a bit. Silver became Platinum, the labels changed a bit.

These may well be the only authentic Hawaiian rums. Although I've heard other distillers say they use Hawaiian molasses and cane syrup, I have no way of knowing.

[primate77]

Is Hana Bay (if still in existence) a true hawaiian rum?

P.S. Nevermind - just answered my own question - found it on Wiki. Says it is a Virgin Island rum that is brought in bulk to California to a distiller. Bankruptcy issues...