Cruzan Diamond Estate 5 yrs vs Cruzan Single Barrel

[Tiare]

How is Cruzan Diamond Estate 5 yrs versus Cruzan Single Barrel?

[Edward Hamilton]

Estate Diamond is a little heavier and not as sweet as their Single Barrel. Personally, I prefer their Estate Diamond but if you're looking for a sweeter, lighter rum then you'll probably like the more expensive Single Barrel.

[Milicent]

I like them both but am coming around to putting the Estate Diamond on top. The Single Barrel has a slight taste that I can only describe with the word kerosene. Not that that is the best word to describe the taste I identify, but it is the only word that comes to mind. Despite that, I still enjoy the Single Barrel. The two are very different and I find myself reaching for the younger sibling more often than not. When price is taken into consideration, there is no competition. I'd go for the Estate Diamond.

[Count Silvio]

http://ministryofrum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=642

[Scottes]

I found the Estate Diamond to be a bit boring, but the Single Barrel seems to change tastes from time to time - which is expected, but it's not always a good thing.

[Lew Barrett]

We cracked a bottle of SB last night. It was procured at High Time on my recent trip, where they had it on sale for $20. I wish I'd gotten more than a bottle (but I was just sampling, as I'd never tried it before). I thought it was great. Our bottle started out with a woody taste right up front; and remember, I'm not a "tone" guy. This had a palpable and distinct taste of oak as if you'd licked a freshly cut board. Much, much more pleasant than it sounds
The rest of the experience was very pleasant as well. Smooth going down, and balanced with just a hint of sweetness. I was reluctant to try SB heretofore given Anglesword's review and his comment regarding harshness, a quality I dislike intensely. But happily, ours was smooth and nicely balanced.
I also like the packaging; cork, and dimpled bottle make for a simple but elegant presentation. I'll be back for more.

[Scottes]

Originally Posted by Lew Barrett

I thought it was great.
...
I was reluctant to try SB heretofore given Anglesword's review and his comment regarding harshness, a quality I dislike intensely. But happily, ours was smooth and nicely balanced.

I agree completely. SB is a very nice rum, and one that I often use as a "starter" when turning newbies onto rum.

[Lew Barrett]

Originally Posted by Scottes

I agree completely. SB is a very nice rum, and one that I often use as a "starter" when turning newbies onto rum.

See your starter thread I didn't mention SB as a starter, but it's going onto my list. I really liked it. Not just for starters, either. We sure got a good bottle!

[Hank Koestner]

I like them both, but I would choose the Estate just slightly over the Single.

[Lew Barrett]

What's the difference in taste, Hank?