Hampden Estate Pagos is a Jamaican rum aged exclusively in first-fill ex-sherry casks using a solera-style process. Produced from a high-ester rum, it is matured in casks from Bodega Lustau that previously held Oloroso Pata de Gallina and Pedro Ximénez sherries for at least three years. Named for the Spanish term used for vineyards in the Jerez region, it is bottled at 52% ABV.
On the palate it suddenly becomes more woody and nutty than expected. Cherry brandy, pralines, nutmeg, black pepper and pencil shavings. Prunes, passion fruit honey, raisins and dried figs. Pale ale, baklava, guava juice and strawberry syrup.
A little less blown-out on the palate, but not much, the super-fruit finding a tamer edge that focuses more on citrus, which is surely driven by the sherry casks. Coffee bean folds in on the lengthy yet refreshing finish.