This tasty, over-proof rum is both reasonably priced and sophisticated enough for straight-up sipping. No wonder it’s so popular.
While there’s still a fair bit left on the shelves, we feel it’s only fair to warn readers that the eminently hoard-able Mount Gay Eclipse Black Rum is starting to disappear in Toronto. Probably, in part, because of the price—$37.95—which is more than fair for this tasty, over-proof rum.
Most boozehounds at least think to pick up a bottle or two of rum for summer cocktails, but the category can still be a tough sell as a more sophisticated liquor for straight-up drinking. In fact, there are plenty of rums suitable for straight sipping, and Mount Gay Eclipse is a pretty good contender.
This, despite being over-proof, which usually conjures up images of fire-water that needs a good masking by way of its old pal, cola. Not this one, however, since Mount Gay eclipse has all the hallmarks of a good rum: ripe fruit aroma, a light body and a dry finish. It would also be spectacular in a rum Manhattan thanks to its potent alcohol content.
Rum Manhattan
2 ounces dark rum + 1 ounce sweet vermouth + 1 dash orange bitters + 2 twist of orange peel, for garnish
Directions:
Fill mixing glass about halfway with ice and add ingredients. Stir well, for at least 30 seconds. Strain into chilled glass and garnish.
Mount Gay Eclipse Black Rum, VINTAGES 271734, $37.95
