Ron Zacapa 15 (vs. 23)

[Milicent]

This past weekend I finally came to the conclusion/acknowledged what I already knew that I prefer Ron Zacapa 15 over the more popular 23. I have found the 23 to be overpoweringly sweet and almost liquer-like on occasion. The rest of the time it was a great sweet rum.

However, I realized I prefer the 15 after making it through my second bottle. Early on the 15 and 23 were had one after the other for the sake of comparison. Eventually, I began reaching for the 15 first and then again and again. Its flavor profile hits my palate's sweet spot. These perceptions might change, but I know what I like right now and the 15 is it.

Anyone else have similar sentiments? I don't know a whole lot of people who have had a whole lot of the 15 as it is often thought of as the little (and lesser) brother. Input?

[angelsword]

I also prefer the 15 to the overly sweet 23.

[Capn Jimbo]

Can't speak for the rest of the room, but our end of the table (bout 6 tasters) all preferred the Botran Solera 1893 to the 23...

[bluewave6]

I also prefer the less sweet taste of the 15 yr to the 23 yr. And I also prefer the Botran Solera to the 15 yr and 23 yr.

[pcguy]

my liquor stores only carry the 23, and thats a rare find to begin with

[Lew Barrett]

This thread encouraged me to crack a bottle of 15 which I've had around for a month or so, and bought on a whim. First impressions only, but right away I expect I will like it better than the 23 long term. Distinct aroma of cream soda hits the nose immediately, and follows with strong vanilla tones that aren't washed out by too much sweetness. This could be my favorite Zacapa if additional tastings prove out first impressions.

[RobertBurr]

For those that really appreciate the Zacapa 15, don't overlook the Botran 12, a close relative of the Botran Solera 18 and cousin to the Zacapa rums. It's not expensive -- $17 last time I purchased -- and well worth it. Makes a great cocktail and sips well on the rocks.

[Milicent]

Great to hear your suggestion re the Botran 12 year, Robert. A friend is bringing me up a bottle from Austin. I'd heard of the family resemblance and wanted to give it a try.

My friend is also bringing me a handle of Santa Teresa Gran Reserva. I'm looking forward to trying both.

[primate77]

For those that really appreciate the Zacapa 15, don't overlook the Botran 12, a close relative of the Botran Solera 18 and cousin to the Zacapa rums. It's not expensive -- $17 last time I purchased -- and well worth it. Makes a great cocktail and sips well on the rocks.

There is a lonely bottle of Botran 12 on the shelf of my local store. I think it is the very same bottle that has been sitting there the past few months. There is only one. It looks like it wants a home. At my store, it runs a little steeper, I think $21, but might still be a decent price?

Can anyone tell me the taste of this rum, and what it compares to? You say Zacapa 15, is that a pretty close comparison? Sips well on the rocks... I'm interpreting that to mean it's a little "rough" to try to sip straight?

One the rocks - ok... as far as "one dimensional mixing" what single mixer would be advised to try this in.

It's like a homeless puppy at the pound, it's calling me every time I walk by it.
It's intriguing, as I don't see this bottle in many other liquor stores that I've gone into.

[Lew Barrett]

You can enjoy the Botran Solera 12 neat, no problem. I do. But then, I drink everything neat. If I use an ice cube, the stuff is rough! If you like RZ 15 and Zaya, I think you'll like the Botran. And, I think $21 sounds good too.