Review #233: Hamilton Beachbum Berry's Navy Grog Blend

Summary

I particularly like Hamilton's Navy Grog blend due to the seemingly higher percentage of Jamaican rum, giving the fruity funk a little more of a starring role compared to his other blends.

A burst of raw alcohol greets me when I first sniff the glass, but eventually yields to caramelized brown sugar, banana peel, pear, and molasses; a slightly creamy and fruity strawberry ice cream aroma comes through with some focusing. The palate is a fantastic balance of funky-fruity Jamaican rum and dark and brooding Demerara; unfortunately, any noticeable Trinidad notes may be relegated to the tobacco and cherry cordial flavors on the finish, with the Dominican component being almost lost altogether.

Once could serve this neat, on a big rock, or in any number of cocktails, and it would be enjoyable. There's a slight brashness on the trailing end of the finish, but overall this fits the bill perfectly for what you'd want in a blend fit for a proper Navy Grog.

Thanks for coming with me on this journey highlighting a prolific brand that has won the hearts of bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts the world over. Cheers!