Ron Zacapa Centenario 23 Rum Review

A versatile sweetened rum, Ron Zacapa Centenario Sistema Solera 23 is good straight or mixed into cocktails. Better choices exist, though, if you are concerned about the origin of your spirits: Customers are misled by Zacapa's packaging, which contains artificial coloring and sugar, into thinking the product has been aged longer than it is.

Tasting Notes for Ron Zacapa Centenario Sistema Solera 23

Color:

Ron Zacapa Centenario 23 presents a striking deep amber hue, a result of both its aging process in barrels and the addition of caramel coloring to ensure a consistent and appealing appearance.

Nose:

The rich influence of sherry casks, with their alluring scents of chocolate, hazelnut, and raisins, greets the nose right away. Underlying notes of oak and caramel add depth to the aromatic profile.

Palate:

On the palate, you'll experience a delightful combination of dark fruits, caramel, molasses, and a hint of slightly bitter coffee. A light sherried tang enhances the complexity, while lingering notes of oak and char provide a satisfying finish. Although the rum isn’t overly sweet, it offers a heavy, almost syrupy mouthfeel, partially due to added sugar post-distillation.

Finish:

The finish reveals flavors of cacao and gentle oak, leaving a lingering sensation that might evoke the need for a toothbrush, thanks to the heavy texture.

Our Review of Ron Zacapa Centenario 23

During the first Obama administration, Zacapa emerged as a standout in the rum industry, winning the hearts of bartenders and rum enthusiasts alike. Its accolades, boosted by a distribution deal with spirits giant Diageo, positioned Zacapa as a premier brand in the premium rum market. However, the rum landscape underwent significant changes in the 2010s, leading to heightened scrutiny of major distilleries.

As consumers began to delve deeper into the production practices of rum, it was revealed that many prominent brands, including Zacapa, often added sugar, artificial coloring, and other additives after distillation. While these practices are not illegal and are common among Latin American distilleries, many long-time rum aficionados felt misled. This shift in perception caused a growing preference for unadulterated rums, such as Foursquare and Appleton, which focus on pure, natural ingredients. Additionally, the misleading implication of the "23" age statement on the bottle—suggesting that all the rum inside is 23 years old—further eroded trust among consumers. Although Zacapa’s sales have remained strong, its reputation has faced challenges.

What Makes Zacapa Unique

What truly sets Ron Zacapa Centenario 23 apart is its distinctive production process. Unlike many rums made from molasses, Zacapa is distilled from sugar cane juice and uses a unique yeast strain isolated from pineapples. This rum is aged at high altitudes in a combination of ex-bourbon and sherry barrels, utilizing the solera method, which blends rums of various ages—ranging from six to 23 years—with a majority being younger.

Despite the inclusion of added sugar (independent reports indicate up to 20 grams per liter), Zacapa Centenario 23 maintains a balanced sweetness, avoiding an overly cloying profile. Its complex flavor makes it a delightful sipper, robust enough to be enjoyed neat or over ice, even at 80 proof. The rum's rich flavor profile allows it to serve as an excellent substitute in cocktails traditionally made with whiskey, such as a Manhattan or Old Fashioned, though it can also shine in lighter cocktails like a Daiquiri or Mojito—just be cautious with the added sugar.

Final Thoughts

For fans of sweeter rums like Diplomatico or Ron Abuelo, Ron Zacapa Centenario Sistema Solera 23 is certainly worth a try. However, it may not appeal to those who prefer their rum in its purest form. It’s unfortunate that we may never know what a completely unadulterated version of Zacapa would taste like, but the current offering remains a complex and flavorful choice in the rum category.