Flavor Diversity!

[T47]

I decided to pick up a second bottle of Rum, trying to pace myself a little as a beginner. I came home with a bottle of Pyrat Planters Gold XO. No real reason, maybe the bottle attracted me who knows? I must say coming from a Bourbon background I am intrigued by the unexpected difference in the flavor of the Pyrat from the only other bottle I have tried, Zacapa 23. I can see sampling Rum will be a much broader experience...at least for my taste buds. I think the difference in the two bottles is as wide as a Peated vs. un-Peated Scotch.
I have always struggled with tasting notes, but I think the word Balanced comes to mind with the Zacapa, I found it wonderfully smooth hints of maple syrup...brown sugar. The Pyrat had such a stong Orange flavor that I couldn't really pick up any other flavors. Not a bad pour, just surprised at how different. Going to have to do some more research before I choose my next bottle.
Great site with lots of great information. Going to take me a while to sift and sip through it!

[Lew Barrett]

Pyrat XO has one of the most distinct flavor profiles of any rum available. I think of it more as an orange flavored rum liquor than as rum proper. Not a bad thing, but not rum per se. The packaging is amongst the best in the business.

[rumdog007]

I am not a fan of Pyrat XO as a sipper. But, it really makes a couple of great drinks as a mixer. Even better for mixing (and, IMO, a better sipper) is the Pyrat Pistol. All of these rums cost half of what they were (in SoCal) a few years ago so mixing is quite afforable. And, good for you for venturing out into new territory!