Ron del Barrilito 2 Star Rum 750ml

Ron del Barrilito is the oldest Puerto Rican rum brand still in production, made since 1880 by the Fernández family at Hacienda Santa Ana in Bayamón. The property traces back to Fernando Fernández, a Spanish privateer from Cantabria who settled in Puerto Rico in 1787 and was granted thousands of acres of farmland along the island's northern coast, originally planted with sugarcane for sugar production rather than rum. Two Stars, introduced during the Prohibition era, was created as a younger, everyday expression alongside the brand's flagship Three Star.

The rum is handcrafted in small batches, aged for a minimum of three to five years in vintage white oak barrels previously used to age Oloroso sherry in Jerez, Spain. Before aging, a portion of the rum undergoes traditional maceration, in which it is infused with a blend of dried fruits and spices to help build the house style. No artificial flavoring, added sugar, or caramel coloring is used at any stage of production.

The rum shows a natural bronze color and a light to medium body, with aromas of plum, almond, apricot, and vanilla alongside subtle smoky, woody notes. On the palate, caramelized fruit and sugarcane lead into a long, delicate oak finish with hints of brown sugar and spice. Two Stars works well sipped neat or on the rocks, and holds up nicely in classic rum cocktails or a simple rum and cola.