Hamilton 151 was made as an alternative for other 151 overproofs and became a staple tiki ingredient like Lemon Hart 151 for drinks such as the Zombie. Unfortunately it’s mostly available in the states, therefore I could only get hold of a sample here in the UK.
Hamilton 151 is a blend of rums from Diamond Distillery, Guyana, chosen by Ed Hamilton of Ministry Of Rum. The blend is unknown therefore I don’t know what stills have been used but I reckon there is juice from least one heritage still in here. Molasses based, aged up to 5 years and bottled at a modest 75.5% ABV without any sweeteners.
On the nose is fairly delicate given the strength. Notes of brown sugar, caramel and coffee jump out. Nutmeg, cloves, prunes, raisins and licorice. Pencil shavings, strawberries in syrup, walnuts and a pinch of salt. All the good stuff I’d expect from a Demerara rum.
On the palate is where it shows its intensity… I did make a face with the first sip. Intense molasses, caramel and dark chocolate. Has like an old cardboard/dusty furniture aroma to it as well. Grapefruit zest, some marzipan, saline solution, Coca-Cola, plums, cacao nibs, pink pepper and a nice herbal note like angelica root. The finish is very long with a nice sweet smokiness, tobacco, caramel and dark chocolate.
Conclusion: Absolutely delicious and full bodied. Wouldn’t have this everyday given the ABV, but I would love to at least have the opportunity to use this in a few drinks including a Zombie. A bottle is around the £30 mark in the US of I’m not mistaken, so good value for money if you can get it.
Hamilton Overproof 151 score:
Flavour/taste: 54/70
Value for money: 15/15
Transparency/purity: 13/15
Overall: 82/100
Cheers!
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