Admiral Rodney HMS Princessa 70CL

The Admiral Rodney rum range from St. Lucia Distillers takes its name and story from Admiral George Rodney, whose naval victory at the Battle of the Saints in 1782 secured British dominance in the Caribbean; each expression in the range is named after a ship from his fleet, and HMS Princessa continues that theme. As with the rest of the series, the rum is distilled on St. Lucia Distillers' historic Coffey still and matured in oak casks, producing a rum with real depth rather than the light, easy-drinking style often associated with white or lightly aged Caribbean rum. Expect a nose of dried fruit, brown sugar, and warm spice, with a base of vanilla and oak that signals proper cask time. The palate carries that sweetness through, joined by baking spice, a touch of dark chocolate, and a gentle tropical fruit note that keeps it from feeling too heavy. The finish is smooth, warming, and moderately long, with lingering oak and caramel. Best enjoyed neat or with a single large ice cube to let the aromatics open slowly, it also holds its own in a well-made rum cocktail for those who prefer their spirit mixed. For anyone interested in Caribbean rum with genuine heritage behind the label, HMS Princessa is a worthwhile addition to the collection.