My Blog "The Rum Howler"

[Arctic Wolf]

The Rum Howler

This thread will act as my Rum Blog. Here is where you can ask me questions, and over time hopefully get to know me better. I also will try let you know what I plan to review in the upcoming weeks.

Thank you all for visiting my little shelf in the cabinet. I shall try to keep things lively and informative.

[forrest]

oh yeah arctic is in the house!!

[Arctic Wolf]

Hey Forrest,

Thanks for the love. I should say now that I could not have made it into the cabinet except for the kind support that you and Rumdog007 have shown me. You two gave me the confidence to continue write my reviews in the forum. I wrote honestly and you guys responded with encouragement. I extend my heartfelt thanks.


There have been many other great supporters of what I have been writing but I am afraid that Ed's server could not process all the other thank yous I owe. So for everyone else who has encouraged me please do not feel slighted, I appreciate all of you.

thankyou.gif

[Rum Runner]

Welcome to the Cabinet Arctic. I enjoy your writings.

[TheRumelier]

Hope we can learn more here too from some of the best cheers.gif

[Tiare]

Hope we can learn more here too from some of the best cheers.gif

I just have second that!

Cheers!

T

[Arctic Wolf]

Its 10:00 Am on a nice Sunday Morning. Sundays are, for me, the best day of the week. I relax and spend time with my youngest son. Today we are going to take pictures of all the bottles I have in my collection. He is just about eight years old, and loves using my digital camera. We build little displays from the bottles and he pretends he is a famous photographer in a picture taking contest. I keep all his pictures in a special folder on my computer.

Later I am going to try to figure out how to add these pictures into my posts. I think it would be a nice touch to start showing the actual bottles I am reviewing. We'll see how it goes.

I also promised I would let everyone know about my review schedule. I have about ten rum spirits I plan to review in the next three months:

Havana Club Barrel Proof Rum
El Dorado 5 Yr Cask Aged Rum
Juan Santos 5, 9,12 & 21 Yr old Rums
Renegade Rum Jamaica 2000
Diplomatico 8 Anos Reserva
Lambs 151 Proof
Cockspur 12 Yr Old Rum

Stay tuned for the reviews.

[forrest]

Hey Forrest,
Thanks for the love.

Thank you Arctic!! It really is fun to see your reviews-- rum is supposed to be fun.
That was very kind of you to say, my appreciation, sir.

[Arctic Wolf]

The news of note today is that I have the picture thing figured out. Check out the pics I put in my reviews. I also fixed all of my links using the link maker menu thingy. Who says you cannot learn new things after forty....ish.

I also thought I should respond to Forrest's comment about how rum is supposed to be fun.

I think all leisure beverages should be fun. In fact life itself should be fun.

But I think I agree with the sentiment of he was conveying. I'll say it this way....

[Arctic Wolf]

Today I am going to try to figure out something which has been niggling at me since the doors to this cabinet opened. I know that cabinet members can respond to threads within the cabinet, but I am not so certain if the regular members of the Ministry of Rum can. I know that Ed has worked hard to get the permissions right, but I just want to test things out. If you are a member of the Ministry of Rum, but not a Connoisseurs Cabinet Member, then please tag this thread with a response. Just a hello or a simple Kilroy Was Here kind of thing.

Thanks.

[RC]

Alright, Rum Howler, represent!!

[Arctic Wolf]

Part of yesterday's objective was met. I found one member thread that required my moderation to be posted. Thanks for tagging the thread RC.

So it seems that for Members of the Ministry of Rum who are not CC members to reply to threads, I must moderate their replies and then allow or disallow them to be posted.

If anyone else tried to reply, but could not please send me a PM. or email.

[Patapouf]

Test, 1 , 2 test!

[Arctic Wolf]

I think I am getting the hang of this moderation thingy. I guess rum and moderation are meant to go together. (Ouch that was a bad pun!)

Thanks Patapouf

[Gecko]

Gecko is knocking at the door

[Arctic Wolf]

Thanks for knocking Gecko.

I guess I have learned what I wanted to. Thanks for helping out everyone. :)

[Arctic Wolf]

It seems I have run into technical difficulties. I will be postponing future reviews here at MoR pending the completion of my own Word Press Blog. I have been advised that it may be in my best interest to have a place off site where all of my reviews can be placed and where control and ownership of said reviews is completely under my control.

This should not be interpreted as a slight to the MoR as indeed it is Ed's advise to myself which has prompted the change in plan. Once the Word Press Blog is up and running I shall post links to that site rather than post the entire reviews here. I shall endeavor to have the changes made quickly, but alas my own business is in "Get Ready For Christmas" mode and I cannot guarantee a quick turn around.

If anyone has experience with Word Press I could sure use help in achieving this goal.

[Rum Lover]

I think Ed finally got the permissions right.

[Arctic Wolf]

It is not so much Ed getting the permissions right as it was me learning how to do things.

I am sometimes a little obtuse when I must learn new things. glass.gif

[Rum Runner]

If anyone has experience with Word Press I could sure use help in achieving this goal.


Chip, as you, I'm long behind the curve in blogging. I chose Word Press to start mine and found it relatively easy to set up and begin posting. There is a learning curve of course, but there is much support there also. I'm not sure how I can help you individually, but feel free to PM me if you need to.

Looking forward to your new site.

Cheers,
Jim

[Arctic Wolf]

Okay I have got a kind of sample setup going with four of my reviews.

I invite anyone to have a look see and let me know what they think.

The Rum Howler Blog (http://therumhowlerblog.wordpress.com/)

[Count Silvio]

It looks great Chip, love the theme and the setup.

[Arctic Wolf]

Let me know what you think of my disclaimer, and the way I am linking the reviews back to the site which first published them. Is it overkill, or does it strike the right balance. I want to respect the sites that first published my reviews but I do not want to create a hodgepodge of unnecessary links that confuse more than they help.

[Rum Runner]

Great start Chip. Your disclaimer more than covers the bases. Your link backs are fine...The more the merrier I say.

[Arctic Wolf]

I get a lot of messages about 'Pingbacks' from Word Press. What are they? Should I delete them? and/or should I allow them? :confused:

[Arctic Wolf]

I'm still working on the Wordpress Blog trying to get everything up to date. I added three more of my published reviews. I should be able to add the rest tomorrow as I have a day off.

I also added a little section on there about myself and why I think I just might be qualified to have a blog. Maybe someone give the new Page "About Me" a read and see if you think it strikes the right tone.

Just Click my signature and it should take you right there.

[Arctic Wolf]

I think the new Rum Howler Blog is complete. I eliminated all of the unnecessary posts that I was using to let persons know what was happening. I cleaned it up to a new introductory post and am ready to launch the site.

Welcome to the new

Rum Howler Blog (http://therumhowlerblog.wordpress.com/).

[Arctic Wolf]

Just updated the blog and added a new section on the 'Extras' page area called 'First Impressions'.

The first write up is for Ron Matusalem Platino (http://therumhowlerblog.wordpress.com/2009/10/21/first-impressions-ron-matusalem-platino/).

[Arctic Wolf]

Two new posts in The Rum Howler Blog:

First a very good idea gone awry:

Legendario Chocolate Ice Creme (http://therumhowlerblog.wordpress.com/2009/10/22/a-new-cocktail/)

And a visit from The Rum Poet:

Waiting (http://therumhowlerblog.wordpress.com/2009/10/23/the-rum-poet/)

[Arctic Wolf]

The Rum Howler highlights the Renegade Rum Company in this weeks Howling Highlight.

Howling Highlight - Renegade Rum (http://therumhowlerblog.wordpress.com/2009/10/25/howling-highlights-renegade-rums/)

[Arctic Wolf]

Added my first real cocktail to the Rumhowler site today:

Sloe Comfortable Daquiri (http://therumhowlerblog.wordpress.com/2009/10/29/cocktail-sloe-comfortable-daquiri/)

I am trying to be creative since I want to keep everything original, but to be honest I'm pretty much of a rookie when it comes to cocktails.

I hope someone tries it and lets me know what they think.

[Arctic Wolf]

Added my latest howl:

Halloween Howl: Spotlight on Dark Rum (http://therumhowlerblog.wordpress.com/2009/10/30/halloween-howl-spotlight-on-black-rum/)

and another cocktail

The Sloe Lime Daiquiri (http://therumhowlerblog.wordpress.com/2009/10/30/cocktail-the-sloe-lime-daiquiri/)

[RC]

The Rum Howler site is looking great, Chip. Well done!!

[Arctic Wolf]

I tried something new last night and recorded my first impressions on my bog.

First Impression: Pampero Seleccion 1938 (http://therumhowlerblog.wordpress.com/extras/first-impressions/first-impression-pampero-seleccion-1938/)


PS: I now have a few whisky reviews up as well. Just browse the site menu.

[Arctic Wolf]

Wow, I have really expanded the Rum Howler. I included some whiskey reviews I had written but never published as well as a tequila review.

In the coming weeks I will have new rum reviews for the rest of the Juan Santos Range, a review for havana club barrel proof, Cockspur 12 year old, Highwood premium white rum(A very pleasant surprise) and the Renegade Panama Review.

for now check out my latest Howl:

Howl (http://therumhowlerblog.wordpress.com/2009/11/08/howling-highlight-rocky-mountain-food-and-wine-festival-2/)

If anyone out there likes tequila or whiskey gimmie some feed back on the reviews.

[Arctic Wolf]

Two new posts on the blog today. First, at the request of a friend I added five basic cocktails:

Cocktails (http://therumhowlerblog.wordpress.com/2009/11/10/introductory-cocktails/)

To be honest these are very basic and probably not of much interest unless you are brand new to rum cocktails.

The second post though will be of interest. My First Impression of Ron Barcelo Imperial:


First Impression: Ron Barcelo Imperial (http://therumhowlerblog.wordpress.com/2009/11/10/first-impression-ron-barcelo-imperial/)

[Arctic Wolf]

I know this is about rum, and I have kept it that way. But this is such a special whisky that just this once I am going to break the code and let you know about it.

Wiser's Red Letter Canadian Whiskey (http://therumhowlerblog.wordpress.com/2009/11/11/whiskey-review-wisers-red-letter-canadian-whiskey/)

[Arctic Wolf]

I finally finished the review of the Pampero Seleccion 1938.

You may read the full review here:

Review: Pampero Seleccion 1938 (Rum) (http://therumhowlerblog.wordpress.com/rum-reviews/dark-rums-m-r/rum-review-pampero-seleccion-1938/)

[Rum Runner]

I know this is about rum, and I have kept it that way. But this is such a special whisky that just this once I am going to break the code and let you know about it.

Wiser's Red Letter Canadian Whiskey (http://therumhowlerblog.wordpress.com/2009/11/11/whiskey-review-wisers-red-letter-canadian-whiskey/)

Thanks for sharing this one Chip. Sounds like a great dram.

cheers.gif

[Arctic Wolf]

Thanks as always Jim.

The Red Letter Whisky review has had tremendous response from unexpected sources, and even though I stated in the review I did not plan to share even a drop of this whisky, I believe that for you I would make an exception.

Of course you would have to make it to Alberta, as I wouldn't dare cross the border with this stuff for fear some unthinking customs official would make me dump it.

[Rum Runner]

I'll be knocking on your door on day Chip!

[Arctic Wolf]

Yes indeed as I shall one day knock on yours! We have, as you say a pact! Sealed in the South by Rum and in the North by Whisky. Wouldn't life be wonderful if all deals could be finalized this way?

[Arctic Wolf]

Last week I spent the whole week training new staff at my memorabilia store and as such had no strength to publish my usual Howling Highlight. This week I am still in recovery mode and again just couldn't get up the strength for any research. Hopefully I will have a nice highlight next week.

As well I do not have a new rum review this week, but I did have time to check out and review a bottle of Scotch and a bottle of Tequila last week. For the next little while the whiskey reviews will be more plentiful, but I assure you Rum is not forgotten and more reviews will be forthcoming in the weeks ahead.

I am starting to receive a variety of samples from unexpected sources, and I must admit I am having a blast with my new blog. I would like to thank everyone here for tuning in so often and providing such positive feed back.

[Arctic Wolf]

Today I thought I would share a new rum cake recipe on my blog. The Legendario Rum Cake. I made one today and it was so good I plan to make another next week. After I make it, I will drizzle it with rum once per week until Christmas Eve when it will be enjoyed as my family waits for Santa.

Here is my latest Howling Highlight: Lendendario Rum Cake (http://therumhowlerblog.wordpress.com/2009/12/05/howling-highlight-legendario-rum-cake/)

[Arctic Wolf]

Its time for Arctic Wolf to reach the big Five Zero. Not years of course although that will be soon enough. But instead I mean fifty reviews. Thirty Three rum reviews, Fifteen Whisky reviews, and Two Tequila reviews.

Here is a link to my article which previews my 50th Spirit Review. (http://therumhowlerblog.wordpress.com/2009/12/08/whisky-review-centennial-10year-old-canadian-rye-whisky/)

Soon I will be adding reviews for Barcello Imperial, Flor de Cana Centenario Gold, Juan Santos 21 Anos Antigua Reserva, Renegade Rum's Panama and Havana Club Barrel Proof. Stay Tuned.

[Count Silvio]

Woah, slow down there buddy! Good stuff, reminds I have to get back on the saddle and do some reviews, now that I can again.

[Arctic Wolf]

I always look forward to your reviews Count. Its good to know that you are back in the saddle again. Just beware! Those Kangaroos ride differently than the reindeer in Finland.

All the best good friend.

[Count Silvio]

We used the polar bear actually!

[Arctic Wolf]

My new Howl for Christmas:

Howling Highlight: Christmas Eggnog (http://therumhowlerblog.wordpress.com/2009/12/11/howling-highlight-christmas-eggnog/)

In two days I will share my 12 Spirits of Christmas.

[Arctic Wolf]

My latest review has been Published:

Havana Club Barrel Proof (http://therumhowlerblog.wordpress.com/rum-reviews/dark-rums-n-to-z/review-havana-barrel-proof-rum/)

[Arctic Wolf]

I made my list of 12 Spirits I wouldn't mind seeing under the tree for me this Christmas. Not just rum mind you, I chose whisky, tequila, Vodka, and Gin as well. The list is not supposed to be a list of the best spirits, but more a list of really good bottles that will keep my bar looking great.

Here is a link:

Howling Highlight: The 12 Spirits of Christmas (http://therumhowlerblog.wordpress.com/2009/12/14/howling-highlight-the-12-spirits-of-christmas/)

Let me know what I missed.

[Arctic Wolf]

My last Howling Highlight before Christmas is a rum ball recipe for Lamb's Blacksheep Rum.

Howling Highlights: Blacksheep Rum Balls (http://therumhowlerblog.wordpress.com/2009/12/21/howling-highlights-blacksheep-rum-balls/)

Enjoy Christmas Everyone!

[Arctic Wolf]

What's new for 2010!

First I am revamping the Cocktail section which isn't working.

Second I am lining up email interviews with various 'person's for note' in the spirits industry. I'm not sure how this will work out but the response from distillers, brand managers, and others has been generally positive towards this idea.

Finally, I will be revisiting a few bottles from my very first reviews. These original reviews while honest and forthright, are not in all cases well written. As well in a few cases, the blends may have changed slightly, and new review scores may be in order. I am torn between leaving the old reviews up and writing the new reviews as additional information, or just eliminating old reviews. I am leaning towards the former, perhaps adding the new review to the top of the page, so that the perspective of the first review versus the second can be judged by the readers. In some cases it may not be a blend that has changed, it may merely be a more or less responsive palate on my part.

I added the EL Padrino (http://therumhowlerblog.wordpress.com/2010/01/07/rum-cocktail-el-padrino/) Cocktail to my front page today along with a whisky review.

I will be slowly adding over time the cocktails which are buried in my reviews to the cocktail menus as well as hopefully adding new ones.

Happy new year everyone! glass.gif

[leisure master]

Hey Arctic - El Padrino looks like an interesting cocktail - thanks for contributing.

I couldn't help but stumble across the modern mai tai recipe on your site - I offer one suggestion for you to take or leave - maybe sub Amaretto for orgeat instead of grenadine if orgeat is not available. That way you still get some of the almond flavor you would get from the orgeat. I do love home made grenadine in many many cocktails, but I'm not a fan of the direction it takes a mai tai.

Apologies if you thought about that and prefer the grenadine, it's just that mai tais with grenadine are a pet peeve of mine...but I am also a firm believer that only one person need like a particular cocktail - the drinker!

[Arctic Wolf]

I couldn't help but stumble across the modern mai tai recipe on your site - I offer one suggestion for you to take or leave - maybe sub Amaretto for orgeat instead of grenadine if orgeat is not available. That way you still get some of the almond flavor you would get from the orgeat. I do love home made grenadine in many many cocktails, but I'm not a fan of the direction it takes a mai tai.

Apologies if you thought about that and prefer the grenadine, it's just that mai tais with grenadine are a pet peeve of mine...but I am also a firm believer that only one person need like a particular cocktail - the drinker!

Leisure Master, I like your style, and you never have to apologize for a suggestion, especially not for a good suggestion like the one above.

Its funny because I was planning on making the Mai Tai tonight, and snapping a pic for the blog. I shall make two, and may the best Mai Tai win. (I am pretty sure it will be the one with Amaretto.)

Keep the suggestions flowing, and maybe I'll start a section for Leisure Master Approved Cocktails! you rock.gif

[Arctic Wolf]

Hey Arctic - El Padrino looks like an interesting cocktail - thanks for contributing.


Thanks Leisure Master, be sure you let me know how you liked it after you tried one. And make sure you follow the link to forrest's site for his tips on mixing this to you particular palate. (Although I'm pretty sure you do not need such help, that was more for others who may be reading this) cheers.gif

[Arctic Wolf]

Last night I did a little clean up on the site, I have realized that many of my cocktails are buried in the reviews, and are not easy to find. So I am slowly, giving them their own page so they can be found in the menu system.

Last night I recovered, Afternoon Delight (http://therumhowlerblog.wordpress.com/cocktails/rum-cocktail-afternoon-delight/). I realized after I had named it, that the name was a double entendre if one remembers the 'Starland Vocal Band'. My intention with the name was more to suggest a delightful sunny afternoon cocktail. I think....

BTW: This was the original very first "forrest Approved Cocktail" that I created. (Forrest thinks that my idea of 'approved cocktails' is hilarious.)

[Arctic Wolf]

Today I did a posting on the Manhattan cocktail. While this is primarily a whisky cocktail, I did include the variation know as the Cuban Manhattan which substitutes dark rum for whisky in the version called the Perfect Manhattan.

Read about the Cuban Manhattan here (http://therumhowlerblog.wordpress.com/cocktails/whiskeycocktail-the-manhattan/).

[forrest]

This was the original very first "forrest Approved Cocktail" that I created. (Forrest thinks that my idea of 'approved cocktails' is hilarious.)
Hilarious as in awesome fun!
Please make me make drinks....laughing.giflove1.gifgzzg

[Arctic Wolf]

This weeks Howling Highlight is all about a club of local rummies who have managed to amass a collection of over 240 Rums from all over the world!

The Rum Chums (First Edmonton Chapter) (http://therumhowlerblog.wordpress.com/2010/01/11/howling-highlight-the-rum-chums-first-edmonton-chapter/)

Click on the link to learn a little about the club and see some fantastic pics of their collection.

[Ben]

What a nice way to share our passion. That's a mother of a collection. Nice selection of Renegade on shelf3

[Patapouf]

What's new for 2010!

First I am revamping the Cocktail section which isn't working.

Second I am lining up email interviews with various 'person's for note' in the spirits industry. I'm not sure how this will work out but the response from distillers, brand managers, and others has been generally positive towards this idea.

Finally, I will be revisiting a few bottles from my very first reviews. These original reviews while honest and forthright, are not in all cases well written. As well in a few cases, the blends may have changed slightly, and new review scores may be in order. I am torn between leaving the old reviews up and writing the new reviews as additional information, or just eliminating old reviews. I am leaning towards the former, perhaps adding the new review to the top of the page, so that the perspective of the first review versus the second can be judged by the readers. In some cases it may not be a blend that has changed, it may merely be a more or less responsive palate on my part.

I added the EL Padrino (http://therumhowlerblog.wordpress.com/2010/01/07/rum-cocktail-el-padrino/) Cocktail to my front page today along with a whisky review.

I will be slowly adding over time the cocktails which are buried in my reviews to the cocktail menus as well as hopefully adding new ones.

Happy new year everyone! glass.gif

Hey Arctic!

I tried my variation of your El Padrino (like I mentionned to you on your blog). It turned out great, using:

2oz. St. James Royal Ambre
1oz. Amaretto (Disarono)
small squeeze of fresh lemon juice

I built it in the glass and dropped the lemon slice in.

Me and a friend had a few and no complaints were heard. I'll try the recipe again and I'll post pictures.

[Arctic Wolf]

Hey Arctic!

I tried my variation of your El Padrino (like I mentionned to you on your blog). It turned out great, using:

2oz. St. James Royal Ambre
1oz. Amaretto (Disarono)
small squeeze of fresh lemon juice

I built it in the glass and dropped the lemon slice in.

Me and a friend had a few and no complaints were heard. I'll try the recipe again and I'll post pictures.

Awesome!! glass.gif

Although this cocktail was suggested for well oaked aged rums like FDC 18, I too have had great success with many different rums (or rhums). (And Pics are Cool!!)

[Arctic Wolf]

I did the first of my "revised reviews" today. After revisiting the Flor de Cana Grand Reserve, over a series of tastings, I revised the review on my blog, and in the MOR database. I plan to do this for most of my original reviews. My theory is that my palate has grown and my skill at telling you what I taste has grown.

Here is a link to the newest posting on my blog. (This contains some nice information on Flor de Cana and their production methods.)

Flor de Cana Post (http://therumhowlerblog.wordpress.com/2010/01/17/review-revisted-for-de-cana-grand-reserve/)

A link to the new review in the MOR database is here:

Flor De Cana Grand Reserve (http://www.ministryofrum.com/rumdetailsmember.php?r=146&u=3568).

[Arctic Wolf]

I was invited to a Private tasting hosted by Appleton and Diplomatico.

Howling Highlight: Tasting Appleton and Diplomatico Rums (http://therumhowlerblog.wordpress.com/2010/01/22/howling-hilight-tasting-appleton-and-diplomatico-rums/)

Some News from the tasting. Appleton 30 is on its way to Canada.
Diplomatico Blanco the 12 year old white may coming as well.
And Hacienda Saruro, is definiately on its way. (This is a 70 proof rum liqueur that is absolutely Yum!)

[Arctic Wolf]

As mentioned in that last posting, I was at a tasting which featured the Appleton lineup about two weeks ago. Because I generally like the Appleton Rums, and because I was given a small bottle of the VX as a gift at the end of the Sampling; I have decided to do a series of reviews featuring the entire Appleton Lineup.

Starting in a couple of days with the Appleton VX, I will climb the Appleton Ladder all the way to the top rungs where I will stop at the 21 Year. The reviews will be spaced about two weeks apart, and I will even be going on a side journey and reviewing the Appleton Dark 151 Proof. Its going to be fun and hopefully you will all enjoy the reviews.

Stay tuned!

[Arctic Wolf]

Superbowl Sunday so i am getting my work done early. I stated my series of reviews on Appleton rums today. You can find the introductory write up on the Front Page of my blog here (http://therumhowlerblog.wordpress.com/2010/02/07/rum-review-appleton-estate-vx/).


Or go right to the review in the database here (http://www.ministryofrum.com/rumdetailsmember.php?r=189&u=3568).

As well i thought I would share my Superbowl Punch Recipe Here (http://therumhowlerblog.wordpress.com/2010/02/05/peachy-superbowl-spiced-rum-punch/).

Let me know what you think.

[Arctic Wolf]

I finished my first interview for my blog today, with James Robertson of Tullibadine Distillery. The interview, while not having anything to do with rum per se, is instead about the excitement of reopening a mothballed distillery, which if you think about it could pertain to any type of distilled spirit, this just happens to be a Scottish Whisky distillery.

Its my first interview ever, so it probably is a little rough around the edges.

Howling Highlight: Interview with James Robertson (http://therumhowlerblog.wordpress.com/2010/02/10/howling-highlight-interview-with-andrew-robertson/)


I would be pleased to receive feedback on the interview.

[Arctic Wolf]

A while back I published a review for the Juan Santos Gran Reserva – 12 Year Old Rum . With the review I published a cocktail I called Arctic Wolf’s Juan Santos Sloe and Sour. The creation of this particular cocktail was a progression of simple steps from a well known classic cocktail, The Whiskey Sour, to the Rum Sour, and then the final step to my cocktail. I chose the starting point as a classic whiskey cocktail because I recognized a whiskey like flavour and delivery in that particular rum. Of course once I had the cocktail created, I have tried it with various rums and have found it to be remarkable well suited to almost any dark rum.

So rather than have this cocktail relegated as an attachment in one of my rum reviews I thought I should add it to my main menu so as to make it easier to find.

So if you are interested here is the recipe along with the recipes for the cocktails that led to its creation:

Rum Cocktail: Rum Sloe and Sour (http://therumhowlerblog.wordpress.com/cocktails/rum-cocktail-rum-sloe-and-sour/)

[Arctic Wolf]

Happy Valentines Everyone!

I continued my review series on Appleton Rum Today with the new Appleton Reserve Review (http://www.ministryofrum.com/rumdetailsmember.php?r=712&u=3568) posted on my site.

I also made a new Valentines Cocktail I call Trouble in Pink (http://therumhowlerblog.wordpress.com/2010/02/14/cocktail-trouble-in-pink/)

Remember the aim is not to drink more...it is to drink better!

[Arctic Wolf]

The rum is coming in fast and furious as more and more of my friends are reading my blog and bringing me rums to try when we have our get togethers. I have great friends! Yesterday at a meeting of The First Edmonton Chapter of the Rum Chums, I was delighted to be allowed to take home two special bottles to sample and review over the next few weeks. Mount Gay 1703 (http://www.mountgayrum.com/), and Big Dlack Dick Dark Rum (http://www.bigblackdickrum.com/).

This along with the Newfoundlander Rum and the Kraken Black Spiced Rum (http://www.krakenrum.com/) my other group of Rum Chums dropped off on Friday means I will be hard at work with more reviews. I have also received confirmation that Dictador 12 and 20 will be coming to my province soon. I tried samples on Sunday Night and I was extremely impressed.

But while you are waiting for those reviews, I thought I would share another pink cocktail I designed. The Pink Rocket (http://therumhowlerblog.wordpress.com/2010/02/23/cocktail-the-pink-rocket/).

Enjoy!

[Arctic Wolf]

I completed my first write up on a distillery tour. The distillery is much more well know for its whisky and Vodka than its rum, but I thought the write up on the distillery and its production methods might be interesting.

Highwood Distillery Tour (http://therumhowlerblog.wordpress.com/extras/the-highwood-distillery-tour/)

[Arctic Wolf]

I have been absent from the forums for a few days. Sorry about that, but a large project has overwhelmed me lately. My blog is still being posted on regularly so you can keep up with the new reviews and whats on the go there. I will be more regular in the forum after March 12.

[Arctic Wolf]

Today I decided I would begin to condense my review cabinet. Instead of starting a new thread for each review, I am going to begin placing reviews from the same companies into the same thread. Thus today when I added my review for Momento Amber Rum (http://www.ministryofrum.com/forums/showthread.php?p=34870#post34870), I renamed, my old Highwood Imported Rum Thread, and placed the review there. Hopefully this makes the cabinet easier to negotiate.

[Arctic Wolf]

I made a full scale change to my Blog's visual layout, and fonts style today. Check it out and give me a thumbs up or a thumbs down!

[mac]

Congratulations the website has really come a long way and now has a very attractive look and presentation. Very professional, keep up the good reviews!!

[Rum Runner Imports]

Chip I like the blue shades and organization.

-on a negative point for me...I find the horizontal lines that run through your main title banner seem to give the illusion of movement and make me a little motion sick IMO.

The blog represents a tonne of work (and drinking) well done!

[Arctic Wolf]

Hi RRI

I made a slight change in the coding, which will be easier on the eyes.

Thanks Mac.

It is amazing how good it feels to get a little feedback!

you rock.gif

[Patapouf]

Great new layout Chip! I check your blog everyday for new reviews.

cheers.gif

[Arctic Wolf]

Hey Patapouf

Thanks!

I never did get your write up and pics for the Agricole version of the God Father. You should email me a pic and your recipe (maybe even a little write up) and I will add it to the blog giving you full credit!

[Rum Runner Imports]

Hi RRI

I made a slight change in the coding, which will be easier on the eyes.

Thanks Mac.

It is amazing how good it feels to get a little feedback!

you rock.gif

The change is easier on the peepers Chip...IMO
I thank you.

[Patapouf]

Hey Patapouf

Thanks!

I never did get your write up and pics for the Agricole version of the God Father. You should email me a pic and your recipe (maybe even a little write up) and I will add it to the blog giving you full credit!

Thanks for the reminder. I'll definitely do that... after my trip to the DR. :)

[Arctic Wolf]

Today I finished off my reviews series of the McClelland's Single Malt regional whiskies. It is simply amazing to me how many people are tuning in to the blog, and I guess I want to thank everyone here at the MOR, because here is where it all started. Sometime in the next two to three months I will reach two milestones. My 100th review, and my 50,000th page view.

thankyou.gif

I will be going to Miami in 10 days to help out at Rum Renaissance, and my plan is to bring back as many liquor samples as the law allows (9.09 Litres) duty free. Already I have rum samples lined up from the folks at Downslope Distillery and Tequila samples from PaQui Tequila. There are sure to be more. If anyone has any suggestions on packing up to 12 liquor bottles safely in a suitcase, I would love to here them. I am not allowed (according to ALCB regulations) to bring back opened bottles, or bottles in switched containers. Everything must come back in their original bottles with the original seals intact.

Mailing them back is a non starter as I must pay duty and shipping on all mailed goods. Duty runs $14.00 a bottle and shipping is $12.00/bottle. There is also a $5.00 handling fee the ALCB tacks on, as well as other minor taxes.

My thought is Bubble wrap and Duct Tape. Any other suggestions.

[RonJames]

Underwear chip. And Im not joking. When bringing back rum I routinely wrap underwear, socks, junky t-shirts, and all other clothing around the goods. This dampens the risk of breakage and it helps keep sticky fingers from misplacing my rum!

[Arctic Wolf]

And I told my wife I didn't need to pack the long johns!

[Arctic Wolf]

Things seem to happen in bunches and its weird how coincidence can play such games. I just finish my review of the Hispaniola Mamajuana and then I find myself traveling back to the Isle of Hispaniola (I am speaking vicariously rather than literally) as I just received a few more rum samples this week . Three Bottles of Bermudez, and one bottle of Brugal arrived last week. I have begun to taste my samples, and my first impressions are extremely positive.

Over the next three weeks I should be reviewing Ron Bermudez Anejo (5 Anos), Ron Bermudez Don Armando (10 Anos) and the Ron Bermudes Anniversario (I am told 15 Anos but the bottle comes with no age statement). These offerings are about to hit Alberta within the next two weeks.

Once the Bermudez reviews are done, then as quickly as is reasonable, I shall review the Brugal Anejo, which has already hit Alberta, (the importer tells me that they are repatriating Brugal to Western Canada in a big way). If sales as they hope they will be, the Brugal Extra Viejo may follow. I may be reviewing the the Carta Dorado and the Extra Viejo pending samples.

I will also be hitting the samples from Downslope Distillers, (their vanilla rum, their wine cask rum, and their gold rum) as soon as I get back from Miami on the 12th.

Jason, if you are reading this, I may be hollering for help!

(Of course this throws a monkey wrench into my plans to work through the El Dorado rums from my own collection, but I have decided that a policy of reviewing Industry samples as expeditiously as possible is probably more cost effective than reviewing my private collection.)

[Jason]

Sounds good. Happy to help out :)

[Arctic Wolf]

The results are in and here is a link to the International RumXP Awards at the recent Rum Renaissance Festival.

Rum Renaissance 2010 (http://therumhowlerblog.wordpress.com/2010/05/12/rum-renaissance-2010/)

[Arctic Wolf]

I keep promising to myself that the cocktail section of my blog will get an overhaul. I want the recipes to be well organized and easy to navigate. And I want more of them. Unfortunately my review schedule gets in the way. But in an effort to keep my promises I added another recipe to my menu today:

The Slow Rum Cocktail (http://therumhowlerblog.wordpress.com/2010/05/31/rum-cocktail-sloe-rum-cocktail/)

Enjoy!

[Arctic Wolf]

The overhaul of the cocktails is underway as I am beginning to create separate pages for each cocktail buried in my reviews.

Today I published four Cosmopolitan style recipes including the Cosmo recipe I came up with for Appleton Estate VX Rum. Here is a link to that posting:

Cosmopolitan Desires (http://therumhowlerblog.wordpress.com/2010/06/03/cosmopolitan-desires/)

[Edward Hamilton]

The work never ends. And you're just getting started. Good luck my friend.

[Arctic Wolf]

I think I have a temporary solution to the Cocktail Crisis on my blog. I reworked the entire menu system. Now I have reviews listed on one side of the blog and cocktails on the other. Persons who were logging on to my site the last two days might have noticed that the menus were wonky while i was making the change over.

As a reward to myself I made and drank two premium cocktails last night. I decided to write about them today:

Two Premium Cocktails (http://therumhowlerblog.wordpress.com/2010/06/06/two-premium-cocktails/)

[Arctic Wolf]

The work continues, and I have as I indicated in my last post figured out how to make my cocktail recipes more accessible, probably by the end of the summer I will have most of my 'buried' cocktails and recipes into the menu system.

Two more were added today:

Two Cocktails for Sharing (http://therumhowlerblog.wordpress.com/2010/06/13/two-cocktails-for-sharing/)

(Its almost time to start adding the cocktail recipes and links into THE MOR database)

[Arctic Wolf]

I thought it was time to place the rest of my Appleton Cocktails into my recipe section on the blog today.

Here is the Link:

Let’s do some Appleton Cocktails (http://therumhowlerblog.wordpress.com/2010/06/20/lets-do-some-appleton-cocktails/)

[Arctic Wolf]

I just got word from my contacts with Dictador Rum, that their products have arrived in Alberta. I had the pleasure of sampling these great rums twice. Once at a private tasting with my Rum Club, and then again at Miami (Rum Renaissance). I was extremely impressed with the rum on both occaisions. I believe the rums will be in short supply so my advice to anyone in Alberta is to grab some as soon as you see it.

[Ben]

That's interesting Chip I never heard of this rum.

The selection in Alberta seems to get better by the day, and it was already the best selection in Canada.

Viva privatization!

[Arctic Wolf]

Our Selection in Alberta rivals most of the US at this point. Privatization has certainly given us a wide variety of spirits to choose from. I do wish that the prices would reflect our lower tax structure on premium beverages though.


As for Dictador here is a link to their website where you can learn a little bit about the company that is behind the distribution of the rum: LINK (http://www.rumdictador.com/)

It is The 12 year and the 20 year are coming to Alberta, and as I said I tasted them both in two very different settings. I will be reviewing both version on my website when my samples arrive, but I can say in all honesty that these rums absolutely rocked everyone in my rum club.

[Arctic Wolf]

Dictador should be in stores soon. The importer (PB Beverages informed me today that the delay was due to Canadian Labeling requirements. As I said before, if you see some consider buying some.

[Arctic Wolf]

Sometime tonight my blog will reach 100,000 page views. I am very grateful for the support the MOR has given me. I am certain that without the support of this great forum and its fantastic membership, I would never have reached this goal.

Thank You everybody!!
cheers.gif

[Calgaryx]

Congrats on your milestone. Do you know from the distributor who is going to carry it in Calgary?

[Arctic Wolf]

Congrats on your milestone. Do you know from the distributor who is going to carry it in Calgary?

It is the same distributor who carries the Diplomatico line up. So I suspect, where you can find Diplomatico, you will find Dictador, Speaking of Diplomatico, Both the Hacienda Saruro (A great dessert rum) and the Blanco will be available soon.

The Dictador has been hung up due to labeling issues. Apparently the regular label did not conform to our guidelines and the entire shipment had to be relabeled. (I think this is a rather common problem.)

[Edward Hamilton]

Sometime tonight my blog will reach 100,000 page views. I am very grateful for the support the MOR has given me. I am certain that without the support of this great forum and its fantastic membership, I would never have reached this goal.

Thank You everybody!!
cheers.gif
You're welcome for the support. I work hard to support everyone who expresses original ideas and shares my commitment to write content which is their own educated opinion or writes information which they have confirmed through first hand experience or a reliable third party. Anyone can reprint press releases and claim them as their own original content.

[Arctic Wolf]

I was greeted with a pleasant surprise today as a couple of reps from Beam Global popped by my store today with a sample bottle of Cruzan Blackstrap Rum. It should be in stores sometime in November. (And available across Canada)

I will keep everyone informed.

[Jamie76]

I was greeted with a pleasant surprise today as a couple of reps from Beam Global popped by my store today with a sample bottle of Cruzan Blackstrap Rum. It should be in stores sometime in November. (And available across Canada)

I will keep everyone informed.

It's a rum you either love or hate. I love it (mixed with coke). Hope you enjoy.

[Arctic Wolf]

On rereading my comment, I want to make it clear I do not have a liquor store. My store is a Sports Memorabilia business, that the Beam Global reps (and others) like to visit when they drop samples.

I opened the cap of the Blackstrap, and it seems to be in the style of Goslings, a heavily flavoured black rum. Might have to find some Ginger Beer and make a few Cruzan Mules. (and I'll try it with coke of course)

[Arctic Wolf]

I have studying the US regulations as they pertain to what can and cannot be labelled as rum. My findings were a little surprising to me as I discovered that rum companies have a wide latitude with respect to additives and coloring agents, which need not be disclosed.

Anyway here is a link to my write-up.

What is Rum? (http://therumhowlerblog.wordpress.com/2010/09/12/what-is-rum/)

If you have too much time on your hands you may find it a good read.

[Jason]

I was greeted with a pleasant surprise today as a couple of reps from Beam Global popped by my store today with a sample bottle of Cruzan Blackstrap Rum. It should be in stores sometime in November. (And available across Canada)

I will keep everyone informed.

+1

Nice. Now I don't have to hoard the dwindling contents of my bottle!

I was inclined to compare this to Gosling's Black Seal at first as well, but the Black Strap doesn't have any of the "spice" that Black Seal does. While Black Seal tastes like Jagermeister to me the Black Strap only tastes of molasses.

[Arctic Wolf]

I was able to taste the complete Line up of Legendario Rums on Monday. It looks like my favourite, the 9 Year Anejo will hit Alberta in about two months. The 5 Yr White, and the 5 year gold are being considered as well.

Check out my blog for a brief preview:

An Evening with Legendario (http://therumhowlerblog.wordpress.com/2010/09/23/an-evening-with-legendario/)

[Arctic Wolf]

I was at a Lucas Bols Event in Edmonton recently and scored a sample bottle of Bols Blue. Now its not rum... but it mixes nice in some good rum cocktails. So I thought what the heck, and decided to give the bottle a review on my blog.

And Now for Something Different: Bols Blue (http://therumhowlerblog.wordpress.com/2010/10/10/and-now-for-something-different-bols-blue/)

Its only my second liqueur review so take what I say with a hefty granule of salt!

[Arctic Wolf]

It's been a year of blogging for me and I did a fun post today to celebrate, my version of the rum and Whisky awards. This will be a four part posting, and today I concentrated on White rum and Flavoured/Spiced rum:

The Rum Howler Awards – Part 1 (http://therumhowlerblog.wordpress.com/2010/10/19/the-rum-howler-awards-part-1/)

Hopefully my choices are sound, and hopefully the choices stir up some discussion.

[Arctic Wolf]

Today I announced the winners of my Regional Rum awards.
Best Central American Rum
Best South American Rum
Best Caribbean Island Rum
Best Non Caribbean Rum

You can see who won here:

The Rum Howler Awards – Part 2 (http://therumhowlerblog.wordpress.com/2010/10/20/the-rum-howler-awards-part-2/)

[Arctic Wolf]

Yep, I finished my little award show by holding a blind tasting session with three friends and checking out what they thought were the best of the best:

Rum Howler Award for Best Rum (aged 5 years or less):
Rum Howler Award for Best Rum: (aged 10 years or less):
Rum Howler Award for The Rum of the Year:


Check out who won:


The Rum Howler Awards for Rum Excellence! (http://therumhowlerblog.wordpress.com/2010/10/22/the-rum-howler-awards-the-rum-wrap-up/)

[Arctic Wolf]

A bunch of new Rums coming to Alberta, that I uncovered at the Rocky Mountain Food and Wine show:

Kilo Kai Spiced Rum
Mount Gay Eclipse (Silver & Regular in the new bottles)
Mount Gay 1703
Castillo Spiced Rum
Cruzan 9 Spiced
St Nicholas Abbey Plantation
Hacienda Saruro (Diplomatico)

It seems we in Alberta continue to be blessed with a great selection.

[mac]

I did try the Cruzan 9 Spiced last with with a diet coke and found it quite enjoyable. Not a huge fan of spiced rums but the Cruzan seemed very mature smooth and tasty !!!!

[Arctic Wolf]

I did try the Cruzan 9 Spiced last with with a diet coke and found it quite enjoyable. Not a huge fan of spiced rums but the Cruzan seemed very mature smooth and tasty !!!!

I have heard nothing but good things with respect to the Cruzan 9. Hopefully I will see the bottles in the store soon.

[Patapouf]

Are you joking!?! I'll send you something from NB if you send me a bottle of St. Nicholas Abbey!! Actually... before... Do you know how much it'll be retailing for?

[Arctic Wolf]

Are you joking!?! I'll send you something from NB if you send me a bottle of St. Nicholas Abbey!! Actually... before... Do you know how much it'll be retailing for?

I was told a price of about $160.00.

[Calgaryx]

I would think that they will not sell much at that price. 10 year old rum for 160 seems a bit steep. Unless you feel that the bottle is worth 80 dollars:)
I personally think there will be many other choices for much less that a person would love. At 160 it would have to be much superior than ED21 at 80-90 or Appleton 21 at 120. It would be also close in price to the 25 year English Harbour 1981 which is 188.

Looking online I would think that this would be in the 100 dollar range in Alberta.

[Patapouf]

I was told a price of about $160.00.

Like CalgaryX said, I think it seems a bit overpriced imho. But, if they can sell it at that price, good for them...

[Jason]

Well I'll likely buy a bottle, as I'm sure Arctic and CalgaryX will. But the question well be if we buy a second bottle...

[Arctic Wolf]

To be honest I am far more excited by the Hacienda Saruro, than the the Nicholas Abbey. I remember at the tasting I was invited to last winter by Diplomatico and Appleton. The Hacienda was the smash hit of the evening, being more popular than both Appleton 21 and Diplomatico Exclusiva Reserva.

[Patapouf]

Well I'll likely buy a bottle, as I'm sure Arctic and CalgaryX will. But the question well be if we buy a second bottle...

It's a fantastic rum, but I can think a few others I would pick in that price range. I have a bottle waiting for a special occasion, but I got it much cheaper... at the source of course!

I'm sure you won't be disappointed. And yes, to some the bottle could be worth 80$. I believe it's my favorite in my collection.

[Arctic Wolf]

I have been imbibing in some of my private stocks of 28 Year Old Mosstowie and 29 year old Bunnahabhain Scotch Whisky this month. It just seemed fitting to get a better handle on what a variety well aged spirits from around the world tasted like side by side with the Appleton 30, as I finally am getting around to tasting the Appleton 30 for myself instead of just reading about it.

The review should be ready in about a week. Maybe a little sooner. Its actually been a good month for premium spirits. My Canadian Club 30 Year Old Whisky review is almost done as well as this spirit was also tasted side by side with the Appleton 30, as was the new Opthimus from Oliver and Oliver. (Unfortunately I did not taste enough of the Opthimus for a review but I will say this rum has rocketed up my charts to my must find a whole bottle for my collection list.)

[Ruminsky Van Drunkenberg]

Without spoiling your review or any notes you have, what was your take on the Appleton 30...worth the price, brilliant, not bad, failed somehow...?

[Arctic Wolf]

I was on a bit of a writing spree last night and finished the Appleton 30 review early. Since I am going to be really busy with my store for the next two weeks, I thought the best way to answer your questions Ruminsky would be to just publish the review. I'll get the links set up in the CC shortly but here it is:

The Emperor Rum: Appleton 30 (http://therumhowlerblog.wordpress.com/2010/12/17/the-emperor-rum-appleton-30/)

[Arctic Wolf]

I do not normally talk about whisky here but today I reviewed a truly iconic Canadian Whisky. I also included a few notes as to how this whisky compares to Appleton 30 Year old Rum with respect to the oak profile.

Review: Canadian Club 30 Year Old Whisky (http://therumhowlerblog.wordpress.com/2011/01/13/review-canadian-club-30-year-old-whisky/)

[Arctic Wolf]

Although this is meant to be all about rum I do occasionally mention some exceptional whiskies especially as a few persons here have asked me for some Tasting Notes on the new Alberta Premium 30 Year Old Whisky.

Review: Alberta Premium 30 Year Old Limited Edition Rye Whisky (http://therumhowlerblog.wordpress.com/2011/06/12/review-alberta-premium-30-year-old-limited-edition-rye-whisky/)

As I said, Exceptional!

[Arctic Wolf]

I had some some fun today:

Top Ten Rums (you should avoid)! (http://therumhowlerblog.wordpress.com/2011/07/09/top-ten-rums-you-should-avoid/)

[Jamie76]

I'm assuming you meant "ten rums to avoid" and not top ten, as most of those wouldn't be considered "top ten" to most people. Interesting that you picked Rhum Clement XO and Appleton Estate 30 Year. I love both of these rums and are generally considered in high regard. Barcardi Razz and Arctic Grape? I wouldn't consider those. Captain Morgan Private Stock is fair. Again, I wouldn't call it a "top ten" but as an introduction to drinking rum neat or on the rocks, this isn't a bad introductory rum.

[Arctic Wolf]

I never considered that play on words the way you did Jamie. The posting is basically meant to be the ten rums I would suggest a person avoid purchasing. Some are not terrible rums, they are just (IMO) vastly overpriced such as Appleton 30 and Rhum Clement XO. Others are just (IMO) concoctions which never should have been conceived, (Arctic Grape and SX Samba).

Like all of these sorts of lists this one is meant to be fun, and I hope it stirs up debate (which it already has) on my website.

[Arctic Wolf]

I put three soldiers to their final resting place last night. I had been nursing them for about a year and they just didn't have much of anything left.

The first soldier was Appleton Master Blenders Legacy, I sipped some on ice and then added a splash of cola when I got to the last ounce. Love this one, for me it is by far the best Appleton.

Next I put down the Last of my Cubaney 25 Year Solero. I named this one "Rum of the Year' on my blog last fall and the last dram did not disappoint. (Pavol if you are reading this you must help out a friend in need and find a way to get me another bottle of Cubaney, this stuff is awesome.)

The last Soldier was a bottle of Cruzab Double barrel, from the older batch with the old style bottle. I mixed the last two ounces into a Mandeville and lamented that all three bottles were gone. But at least they went to a good place.

(Tonight I think I will sip on some Havanna Club Barrel proof!)

[forrest]

I put three soldiers to their final resting place last night. I had been nursing them for about a year and they just didn't have much of anything left.

i love cleaning out the cabinet, but mine is now to empty.....

MBL is a Gem, for sure. . .

[Jamie76]

i love cleaning out the cabinet, but mine is now to empty.....

MBL is a Gem, for sure. . .

How can your cabinet be empty? You work for Hi Times...

[forrest]

How can your cabinet be empty? You work for Hi Times...

Poverty crosses all boundaries... i have drank so much--- lets leave it at that! in the last few months that i am amazed at the 'tasty' factor in my drinks... every time i taste them (in simpler terms, it is a miracle that i can make some of this . . . taste "acceptable".. I guess it is a testament to my skill as a mixologist, but i would not mix most of the things i have 'recently' unless i 'had' to....

[Arctic Wolf]

St. Nicklaus Abbey (My Father's Day Present this Year) with just a smidgen of ice. After I waited about 15 minute the rum had a most spectacular nose. full of rich baking spices, tobacco and dried fruit. I am not saying the Abbey was disappointing, but only a fraction of that nose translated to the palate. (Still tasted wonderful.)

I also cracked one of my bottles of Bruichladdich Redder Still. Every bit as good as the St. Nick, maybe even more so. Sometimes a really nice Scotch is a good way to finish an evening.

In about a year I will probably put those soldiers down too.!

Hope everyone had a nice Labour day!

[Ruminsky Van Drunkenberg]

St. Nicklaus Abbey (My Father's Day Present this Year) with just a smidgen of ice. After I waited about 15 minute the rum had a most spectacular nose. full of rich baking spices, tobacco and dried fruit. I am not saying the Abbey was disappointing, but only a fraction of that nose translated to the palate. (Still tasted wonderful.)



Isn't that St. Nicholas Abbey, or were you punning on Jack Nicklaus? Also - was it the 8, 10 or 12 yr old?

[Arctic Wolf]

I guess was punning a little seeing as how it was a present and all, (although truthfully I just misspelled it).

The St Nicholas Abbey I was gifted was the 10 Year Old , I was unaware that the 12 was in Alberta but I see on the Liquor Connect site that the 12 is listed as well. What did you think of the Abbey Lance?

[Ruminsky Van Drunkenberg]

I guess was punning a little seeing as how it was a present and all, (although truthfully I just misspelled it).

The St Nicholas Abbey I was gifted was the 10 Year Old , I was unaware that the 12 was in Alberta but I see on the Liquor Connect site that the 12 is listed as well. What did you think of the Abbey Lance?

The eight wasn't as good, the 12 was soft and lekker as anything, but I really do believe that the 10 is the standard. Unfortunately, all are pricey, starting at $120 for the 8 yr in Calgary. Just posted the reviews last week, if you don't mind the crass plug.

[Arctic Wolf]

Just posted the reviews last week, if you don't mind the crass plug.

Why do you think I asked?

I am finding the St. Nic to be great when compared against rums of similar age, not so great when I compare against the Ultra High End rums with which it competes in its price bracket. (For the $145 my wife paid she could have got me an ED 21 and a Zacapa 23 and still had money left over to buy the snacks for the next tasting.)

[Ruminsky Van Drunkenberg]

Why do you think I asked?

I am finding the St. Nic to be great when compared against rums of similar age, not so great when I compare against the Ultra High End rums with which it competes in its price bracket. (For the $145 my wife paid she could have got me an ED 21 and a Zacapa 23 and still had money left over to buy the snacks for the next tasting.)

My sentiments exactly: you really gotta want the thing, and you can get twice the age for the same price. But if you think that's bad, wait until they come out with the 15 yr old in 2013 and the 20 yr old in 2018...can you just imagine the prices? Ouch.

[Arctic Wolf]

A new internet magazine is launching called 'flave'. I have been asked to write a column each month so I decided to start a campaign to get me installed on the first cover. You can read about it here:


Put the Rumhowler on the Cover! (http://therumhowlerblog.wordpress.com/2011/10/22/put-the-rum-howler-on-the-cover/)

It's all in fun!

[chrism76]

Wow! Congratulations Arctic Wolf!

[fritzeg]

Hey Wolf. I'm new to this site and your blog, but it's nice to know someone else from Edm that is passionate about rum. I have 2 questions. In 5 weeks we're heading to The DR (Punta Cana) and was wondering if you have some suggestions (I like it dark on the rocks) and some ideas about where to buy it and what it should cost? Also, I am in the lucky situation of having a good friend who just bought a wine and whiskey store. He asked for suggestions and I told him he should also have a section for rum. Any thoughts on what you would like to see in the store if I can get him to import it? I'm thinking I may have to go with him on a buying trip to the Caribbean to check out what we can bring here (LOL).

[Arctic Wolf]

Hi fritzeg

I have never been to the DR so I have no suggestions for shopping locations although if you post your question in the Rum questions/discussions forum as I am sure lots of people will jump in with good places to buy rum.

As for what rum to buy, I am partial to the rums of Oliver and Oliver who have a blending and aging facility in DR. They make good rum.

As for your Friend with the wine and whisky store. Just have him browse the reviews on my website for ideas.