PAPA'S PILAR 'ERNEST' XO DOUBLE FINISHED RUM
SOUTH & CENTRAL AMERICA
You know those moments when something arrives that makes you want to clear your calendar and spend an evening exploring? That's exactly how I felt when this remarkable new release from Papa's Pilar landed on my desk. Here's why I'm excited: 7th generation master distiller Ron Call has taken hand-selected rums from South and Central America and orchestrated something genuinely novel in the world of ultra-premium spirits.
What Call has done here, in this transportive tribute to Papa Hemingway, is fascinating. Rather than rest on the considerable merits of his carefully chosen rums, he's pushed into new territory with an inspired double-finishing process. First comes time in heavily-toasted American white oak barrels, their staves air-dried for 36 months — a patient start that builds remarkable depth. But then comes the brilliant twist: consecutive finishes in Cognac and Armagnac casks. At 100 proof, the result is something I can't stop thinking about: delicate aromatics of roses and violets that open into deeper notes of hazelnuts and burnt citrus peel, followed by a palate that keeps revealing new layers – from earthy notes to green tea, from warm spices to dark chocolate and quince. The finish? It’s as if I can still taste it, and my last sip was hours ago.
The presentation is just as considered as the spirit itself. The crystal decanter, bearing Hemingway's signature and that evocative image of Papa at Finca Vigia in Havana, arrives in a teal box that opens to reveal its treasure like a well-crafted jewelry case.
Oh, and there’s one more detail that has to be conveyed: because we work directly with the distiller, you can be certain that what arrives at your door is exactly what left the distillery.
I can’t wait for you to taste this one for yourself and see.
*Offer NOT valid in-store. This offer is made pre-arrival, with wines estimated to be delivered to your preferred store in Spring 2025. All sale prices are the lowest available at Total Wine & More and ONLY valid through Concierge Sales. No further discounts or coupons may be applied. Offer only valid in FL. This offer will expire on Thursday, December 12, 2024.