Stock Jamaica Rum - 50%
Stock was a major Italian spirits company that emerged during the late 19th century as a response to the decreased production of French wine and spirits during the phylloxera epidemic. The amari and liqueurs they produced through at least the 1970s were highly regarded and drank great. Current production doesn't receive quite the same response.
I wasn't able to dig up much on this specific brand, but it served to fill out the rum portion of their portfolio. The label mentions no added sugars and also that the rum contains added alcohol. This was likely done to stretch the distillate, making the end product more affordable and profitable. Not too dissimilar to adding cheaper distillate to many blended whiskies in the US. It also reminds me of the Mike Veach anecdote about how during Prohibition one pint of Mt. Vernon Maryland Rye could be stretched with five pints of neutral grain spirit to make six pints of bootlegged whiskey thanks to its robust profile.
Notes: Very fruity - pineapple, citrus. You know you're drinking Jamaican rum on the nose. Reminiscent of a low ester, pot still Long Pond. There's a touch of cedar and medicinal roots there as well. Touch of added sweetness on the palate - not heavy with sugar (and it says none was added) - possible from the added neutral spirit? Almost plays like a dry leaning bottled daiquiri with the citrus and overripe banana and touch of sweetness. Structure plays soft for 100 proof. Finish dips oddly sweet and medicinal - slightly disjointed from a typical Jamaican profile. Guessing this might also be the interplay with the added neutral spirit.
Score: 5 (Acceptable) I always enjoy higher proof Jamaican profiles and found plenty of interesting and enjoyable moments here. However, the added neutral spirit (or something else I may be missing) created some odd moments.
Rating System
10 - Reevaluate The Budget
9 - Stash Two (If Able)
8 - Stash One (At The Right Price)
7 - Highly Recommend It To Strangers
6 - Solid - Above Average
5 - Acceptable For The Situation
4 - Not Vocally Complaining
3 - Anything Else To Drink?
2 - Nothing Nice To Say
1 - Drain Pour