Papa’s Pilar is an adventurous new rum inspired by life and times of Ernest Hemingway. “Papa” referring to Hemingway and “Pilar” – the name of his 1934 Wheeler Playmate Cruiser boat. From a marketing perspective this brand is off the charts in our opinion. Hemingway + Rum… how did someone not think of this sooner!? Everything from the unique bottles – which were built to resemble canteens used in WWII to the obvious nautical theme is masterfully branded. Recently our crew of professional booze-hounds was tapped by the Hemingway Rum Company to put their newly launched rums (blonde & dark) through the paces at our tasting table. Never one to turn down samplings of rum, like pirates, we commandeered a few bottles and let the pouring begin.
But before we get too far into our review, let’s explore what makes Papa’s Pilar (in this case the Blonde variety) so unique. What might surprise you is that the Hemingway Rum Company doesn’t distill their own rum. In fact, the (sugar cane molasses derived) base rums utilized to produce Papa’s Pilar are actually hand-selected from a variety of sources from ports throughout the Caribbean, Central America and the US. Chosen specifically for their age and distinct character, these rums (once imported to the US.), are then expertly married by a team of Master Blenders in a unique “solera” aging and blending process – using myriad of barrels including: American Oak Bourbon, Port Wine casks, and finishing in Spanish Sherry casks. This process is totally unique in the world of rum making and quite fitting for a brand that carries the Hemingway namesake.
Papa’s Pilar is the only rum supplier utilizing a solera that contains rums of various ages and sources of supply – each unique in their own right, this exclusive process creates a one of kind liquid that is singular in its creation and final product. –Jay Maltby, Lead Master Blender, Papa’s PilarDeveloped in conjunction with Ernest Hemingway’s estate, Papa’s Pilar has the full endorsement of the Hemingway family. In fact, the Hemingway family has pledged to donate 100 percent of their royalty profits from Papa’s Pilar to organizations that embody the likes of adventure, literacy, and conservation, causes dear to Hemingway and his heirs. Making the purchase of rum even more rewarding… which we didn’t think was possible.
– Papa’s Pilar Blonde Rum Review –
- Proof: 84 (42% ABV)
- Age: 3 to 7 years “solera blended”
- Appearance: Translucent yellow tint / blonde
- Nose: Vanilla, citrus, caramel and molasses
- Flavors: Vanilla, citrus, sherry and creamy molasses
- Taste: A- (Excellent)
- Finish: B+ (Very Good)
- Mix-ability: A+ (Amazing)
- Buzz Factor: B (Good)
- Buy Now: $29.99 USD (750ml.)
MIX IT UP… “Dark & Stromy”
Ingredients: 1.5 oz. Papa’s Pilar Blonde, 3 oz. Ginger Beer, Angostura Bitters, Lime Wheel Garnish. Directions: Build over crushed ice. Top with Angostura bitter. Garnish with lime wheel. And of course – enjoy! Buy Now: $29.99 ($USD) or go to: PapasPilar.comFollow BustedWallet on: Facebook & Twitter
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