Appleton Estate 12 Year Rare Casks
The Verdict
This is what people mean when they talk about “Jamaican funk.” Appleton’s 12 Year brings everything you want in an aged rum: complexity, balance, and a distinctive character that shines through in cocktails while being perfectly sippable neat.
Tasting Notes
Nose: Brown sugar, orange peel, tropical fruit, and a hint of coffee. There’s a pleasant funkiness underneath—not aggressive, just interesting.
Palate: Rich and full-bodied. Caramel and vanilla upfront, followed by baking spices, ripe banana, and that signature Jamaican ester character. The 12 years of aging show through with oak complexity without overwhelming the rum’s natural character.
Finish: Long and warming. Spice lingers pleasantly, with dried fruit and a touch of molasses.
In Cocktails
This is where the Appleton 12 truly excels. Use it in a Mai Tai and you’ll understand why Trader Vic originally spec’d aged Jamaican rum. It’s got enough backbone to stand up to citrus and orgeat without getting lost. In a Jungle Bird, it adds depth that transforms the drink. Even in something as simple as a rum Old Fashioned, it shines.
Value Proposition
At around $45, this is one of the best values in aged rum. It outperforms bottles twice its price and belongs in every serious home bar. If you’re building a tiki collection, this should be one of your first purchases.