Plantation XO 20th Anniversary rum is a premium rum that has been aged for a significant amount of time to develop its complex flavors and smooth character. The “20th Anniversary” in its name refers to the celebration of the brand's two decades of existence, but it doesn't necessarily indicate the exact age of the rum itself.
To understand the age of Plantation XO rum, it's important to delve into the aging process that it undergoes. The rum is initially aged in the Caribbean, where it is distilled using a combination of pot stills and column stills. This blend of distillation methods gives the rum a rich and varied flavor profile. After distillation, the rum is aged in ex-bourbon casks for a period of 12 to 20 years.
The use of ex-bourbon casks adds depth and complexity to the rum, as it absorbs the flavors and aromas previously held by the bourbon. This initial aging process in the Caribbean contributes significantly to the overall character of Plantation XO rum.
However, the aging process doesn't stop there. After the initial aging in the Caribbean, the rum is transported to France for a second maturation period. In France, it is further aged for 12 to 18 months in small French oak casks. This additional aging in French oak barrels imparts unique flavors and characteristics to the rum, adding another layer of complexity.
It is worth noting that the exact age of Plantation XO rum may vary from batch to batch, as it is a blend of rums with different ages. The age statement on the bottle typically indicates the minimum age of the rum in the blend, but it can also include rums that are older than the stated age.
The aging process of Plantation XO rum is essential in creating its refined and sophisticated profile. The combination of pot-stilled and column-stilled rums, along with the use of ex-bourbon and French oak casks, results in a well-rounded and balanced flavor profile. The aging process allows the rum to develop complex notes of caramel, vanilla, tropical fruits, and spices, making it a truly enjoyable sipping rum.
While the exact age of Plantation XO rum may vary, it is a blend of rums aged for a minimum of 12 to 20 years in ex-bourbon casks in the Caribbean. It is then further aged for an additional 12 to 18 months in small French oak casks in France. The combination of these aging processes results in a rum with a rich and complex flavor profile that is worthy of its 20th-anniversary celebration.