RonZacapaXOSoleraGranReservaEspecial(700mL)(700mL)

<p>Rum from above the Clouds. </p><p>Ron Zacapa is named after a town in eastern <em>Guatemala. </em>Their plantation is located high on the volcanic plains of <em>Retalhuleu, 1148ft (350m) above sea level.</em> Most Rums use molasses as their base. In an effort to impart a sweeter and smoother flavor, Zapaca meanwhile uses only the concentrated first press of sugar cane, known as <em>virgin sugar </em><em>cane</em><em> honey. </em>When it’s time to start the fermentation, a strain of <em>yeast extracted from pineapples </em>is used, which produces unique aromatic compounds.</p><p>The Rum is then distilled at sea level in continuous column stills, before being moved higher into the mountains, where the maturation takes place. In the highlands of <em>Quetzaltenango, 7,544 ft (2,300 M)</em> above sea level, lies <em>The House Above the Clouds.</em> This stunning location – <em>one of the highest aging facilities in the World</em> – is where Zacapa slowly develops its complex flavor and character over time. Rums between<em> 6 and 25 years old</em> are used in the blend of <em>Ron Zacapa XO.</em> These Rums are then blended as they age in a sequence of barrels that previously stored robust <em>American Whiskeys</em>, delicate <em>Sherries</em>, fine <em>Pedro Ximénez</em> wines and are finished in <em>French oak cask</em> that previously aged <em>Cognac</em>. Talk about a fusion of flavors!</p><p><u>Smartass corner:</u><em>The lower atmospheric pressure helps intensify the infusion of flavors from the barrels.</em></p><p><u>Comment:</u>This is a huge, impressive, award-winning and showy Rum. Sip slowly and straight.</p>