Several years ago, I had the privilege of tasting Flor de Cana’s V Generaciones, a single cask rum distilled in 1988 and matured for three decades amidst the tropical climate of Nicaragua. Fast forward to the present day, @the_rum_cartel has very kindly shared with us the oldest offering from Flor de Cana’s collection — the 35-year-old expression.

Unveiled in late-2025, this 35-year-old rum marked the celebration of Flor de Cana’s 135th anniversary, since its inception in 1890. The spirit itself was distilled in 1990 and subsequently rested in American white oak barrels, with the entire process under the watchful eye of Maestro Ronero Tomas Cano, a stalwart of the distillery for nearly forty years. This rum is encased in a rather unique crystal decanter, crafted to mirror the slopes of the San Cristobal volcano, the very site where the cane for Flor de Cana’s rum is cultivated. Given its extensive tropical maturation, it is unsurprising that only 350 bottles of 70cl were produced, accompanied by a small number of 10cl miniatures, all bottled at 45% abv.

Unexpectedly, the nose of the 35-year-old rum was remarkably uplifting, exuding a freshness and brightness that one would seldom attribute to a spirit of such age. It was reminiscent of fresh white oak shavings, a harmonious blend of sweetness and green undertones. As it opened, more familiar aromas emerged, those of baking spices, zesty citrus, and, intriguingly, a subtle savoury quality that might be best likened to salted peanuts.

On the palate, the freshness once more proved to be rather invigorating, alongside rich vanilla undertones, with little bursts of citrus in-between that gave it a rather distinct character. Although there were no signs of oakiness or excessive aging, the rum possessed quite a bit of dryness, which added a dimension of complexity and, indeed, a certain strength, complemented by additional notes of white pepper and a floral hibiscus sweetness at the end.

Once again, my deepest gratitude to @the_rum_cartel for bringing this special liquid from the very heart of Flor de Cana to us on this occasion.

Your occasional rum addict!

@weixiang_liu