The second-ever release of the Brugal family’s private reserve rum, Brugal Papa Andrés 2015 Alegría Edition is a spectacular collector’s rum. Blended from 36 old casks which have been hidden away in Brugal’s warehouses for safekeeping, Papa Andrés 2015 is the work of 5th generation master blender Jassil Villanueva Quintana.
In this Spirit Spotlight, we go back to the top shelf, but this time, for rum.
After visiting Brugal’s facility in Puerto Plata in June, and coming away impressed with their entire lineup, I was particularly intrigued to check out this exclusive release. Here are my notes:
Robust and complex nose with aromas of raisins and candied fruits, as well as caramel and brown sugar. Palate is well-rounded, which belies how complex it actually is, with sherry, dried fruits, molasses and oak, all with a viscous and velvety mouthfeel. The pleasant, warming finish sneaks up on you and leaves you with more sherry, oak and spice. This is one to savor down to the last drop. Don’t you dare mix it or water it down.
Papa Andrés 2015 is offered in a crystal decanter and set in inside a colorful, bright presentation box, all of which were designed by Javier Mariscal.
Just 1,000 bottles were released, priced at $1,500 with all profits going to the Brugal Foundation. So, you’re drinking the top shelf for charity, folks! Alas, only 97 bottles are available for sale in the U.S. Happy hunting.
