Admiral Rodney HMS Princessa is produced by Saint Lucia Distillers and aged 5 to 9 years in ex-bourbon and port casks. Distilled on a Coffey still, it is bottled at 40% ABV in a 750ml format. This expression is named after the HMS Princessa, a captured Spanish vessel that fought in the Battle of the Saints. It is priced at around $67.99.
The wood punch remains heavy here, but it’s beautifully integrated with the brown sugar, dried fruit, and more spice on the finish. It also mixes well, but give the rum a bit of air time if you’re sipping straight.
The Admiral Rodney HMS Princessa seems to be better than the sum of its parts. I found myself returning to the rum, sometimes sipping it straight and sometimes mixing Old Fashioned Cocktails. I think that some will be put off by the leathery flavours, but I also think that over time those persons will change their mind if they give the rum a second chance.
Aside from the short finish I really enjoy Admiral Rodney HMS Princessa. It may be a little “simple” for some palates but I find it a good solid sipper with no off notes.
