Overview
Brand: Hamilton, Ministry of Rum series
Origin: Diamond Distillery, Diamond, Guyana; Worthy Park, Lluidas Vale, Saint Catherine Parish, Jamaica
Still: Pot & Column Blend
Age: NAS
Finish: ex-Bourbon*
ABV: 57%
For the second-to-last entry in our Hamilton Week journey, we're taking a look at a tried-and-true cocktailing ingredient, specifically targeting the segment of tiki drinks that needs a higher proof, but not something as heavy as a 151º.
Hamilton 114 Navy Strength is a blend of Jamaican and Demerara rums, proofed to 57% ABV; this is traditionally referred to as "Navy Strength", although there is some debate over the accuracy of this percentage. 40% of the blend is Jamaican rum, and the remaining 60% is Demerara rum, indicating a blend of pot & column production. There is no age statement, but it's possible some of this blend was aged for some amount of time.
Appearance
Dark orange, medium-low viscosity
Nose
Molasses, rotten banana peels, prunes, brown sugar, dates
Palate
Molasses, rotten banana peels, caramelized pineapple, vanilla, brown sugar, prunes, hint of grape popsicle
Finish
Long, warm, spiced; molasses, vanilla, tobacco leaves, prunes, spice blend (cinnamon, nutmeg, black peppercorns)
Rating: 7/10
Summary
Hamilton's 114 proof Navy Strength blend is an enjoyable one; it hits a lot of the highlights of other "navy style" rums, while offering none of the overt sweetness that is sometimes present.
The nose and finish are very squarely placed in the camp of the Demerara component, with molasses, brown sugar, dark dry fruits, spices, and even some tobacco popping through. Common Jamaican rum flavors ike banana and pineapple appear on the palate, joined in a balanced array of flavors echoing the aromatic notes.
This is an excellent blend that will add an extra "oomph" to your next tiki- or simply rum-based– cocktail, at a great value.