This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Don Q rum. All opinions are 100% mine.
Just before the holiday we shared a delicious Spiced Rum drink we created in partnership with Don Q Spiced Rum, and today we’re back with more! This time we’re spending a little time on Don Q’s Gran Añejo- a super premium rum that’s JUST RIGHT for sipping neat or on the rocks.
(And don’t worry- there’s a recipe in here for you cocktail drinkers as always!)
First, let’s go over a refresher of why I love Destilería Serrallés- the Puerto Rico distillery where Don Q rums are made- and the line of Don Q products:
- Don Q’s commitment to environmental responsibility is TOP NOTCH. Unlike other distilleries, Don Q has implemented a water reclamation program which allows them to recycle their wastewater instead of DUMPING IT IN THE OCEAN. I didn’t know it, but this is common practice in the spirits world- crazy, right? On top of that, they’re taking it even further by partnering with The Surfrider Foundation to spread environmental awareness.
- From a product standpoint, Don Q is the only rum company that uses aged rum in each product- INCLUDING flavored rums. Also in that ingredient list: natural flavorings only, with no additives or artificial sugars/coloring. This makes for some pretty award winning rums, as you might imagine- look at this pretty little award sticker right on the bottle of Gran Añejo!
Don Q Gran Añejo itself is SO special- AND in demand. No lie, I had to go to three separate places to find it because each store was sold out! (I think the secret is spreading.) Not a surprise considering this rum is smooth and delicious, featuring a subtle aroma with hints of vanilla and dark caramel.
The rum is first aged in American white oak barrels for 9-12 years, and then moved to Spanish sherry casks for up to FIFTY YEARS. That’s a long time for a superior taste of 80 proof yumminess. WORTH IT.
If you’re enjoying with a meal, this rum pairs well with grilled meats like prime rib or lamb. It’s still a versatile spirit however- so feel free to substitute it for whiskey in an Old Fashioned cocktail! Don Q provided the perfect recipe for you to follow:
OLD FASHIONED
2 oz Don Q Gran Añejo rum
1 splash Club soda
1 Sugar cube or 1/2 tsp Sugar
3 dashes Angostura bitters
1 Orange peel for garnish
1 Maraschino cherry for garnish
Place the sugar cube or 1/2 tsp sugar in an old fashioned glass. Add 3 dashes of Angostura bitters and splash of club soda. Muddle the mixture, then add ice. Pour Don Q Gran Añejo and stir until well chilled. Garnish with orange peel and maraschino cherry.
(I’ll be mixing these up this week on our Instagram stories, so don’t forget to follow us!)
PS- If you’re in your local store and can’t find the pretty bottle with the diamond shaped stopper, it might be because it comes in this nice black box on the shelf.
Now, tell me: how are YOU going to enjoy this rum? Are you a sipper? Shaking up an Old Fashioned with me to celebrate the New Year?
