Grander Panama Rum, Islay Peat Single Barrel

ABV: 62.4%

Country: Panama

Age: 11 years

Cask: ex-bourbon and ex-islay

Still: Multi-column still

Price: I paid £41 at auction

Distillery: Unknown

Grander as a brand isn’t one I am very familiar with so I was excited to pick up a bottle on a whim from auction to see what this Independent Bottler was producing. I very much jumped into the deep end of what Grander have produced with their Islay Peat Single Barrel release that takes things in a bold direction. Finished in smoky Islay Scotch casks, it promises a collision of tropical warmth and coastal campfire.

Nose

I immediately got hit in the face with a big whiff of smoke and an agricultural note that reminds me of mucking out hay stables. The peat definitely dominates the ‘rummy’ notes that I am sure are hiding underneath. The nose isn’t all smoke – with some sweeter vanilla and toffee notes.

Palate

There is some identity confusion here as this doesn’t particularly feel like a rum or a whisky; which makes for rather challenging tasting notes. Heavily charred wood with smoke, yet there is just enough sweetness to balance this out and stop it from being too much. Pretty dry mouthfeel with a slight oiliness to it. Lots of black pepper on the finish. This drinks surprisingly well for the ABV. Much like the nose I find myself questioning whether the smoke sings or smothers; and I think that answer will change based on my mood.

5/10 – The peat dominates the profile a little too much for me. This is one I need to be in the mood for.