Havana Club

I am just wanting to know if anyone could give a quick review of any of the havana clubs. Interested in knowing how this stuff tastes from you guys. Thanks

[Mark C]

There've been a few threads here and at CS about HC. General concensus seems to be that it's decent rum, but there are better rums more readily available in the US. Especially if hitimewine will ship to your state.

[Genetic Defect]

Originally Posted by Mark C

There've been a few threads here and at CS about HC. General concensus seems to be that it's decent rum, but there are better rums more readily available in the US. Especially if hitimewine will ship to your state.

although the better rum is not available here

[mosesbotbol]

Owned the 7 a while back and have tried several of the others. Honestly, it's nothing special at all.

Consider finding a bottle of pre-Revolution Bacardi if you want something unique of Rum from Cuba.

Originally Posted by mosesbotbol

Owned the 7 a while back and have tried several of the others. Honestly, it's nothing special at all.

Consider finding a bottle of pre-Revolution Bacardi if you want something unique of Rum from Cuba.

Thanks. Ive had other people say the same thing, nothing special.

[karmaz00]

well in my opinion, the HC white, would not be the rum to have rum and cokes...i would mix it to make a nice slushly drink of some kind (pina colota)

i find that rum too sweet, and alot sweeter then barccardi, or anyother for that matter

[Mark C]

Originally Posted by karmaz00

i find that rum too sweet, and alot sweeter then barccardi, or anyother for that matter

Have you tried Zacapa, Zaya, Diplomatico or Centenario? They're about as sweet as rum gets, how does the HC compare?

[MiamiE]

I have 2-3 bottles of each, way more than I ever will use, kind of wishing I hadnt bought so much. It is a decent rum. The white is great with those 'fruity' drinks as was mentioned.

[WildBlueSooner]

Originally Posted by MiamiE

I have 2-3 bottles of each, way more than I ever will use, kind of wishing I hadnt bought so much. It is a decent rum. The white is great with those 'fruity' drinks as was mentioned.

Geez...get a little trigger happy?

[M1903A1]

My main memory of the Havana Club dark rum was that it reminded me of Ron Zacapa 23 that was watered down. Given a choice, I'd go for ol' Ron any day.

[DrDubzz]

I have about 2/3 bottle of the 7, I want to try the Barrell Proof, but honestly, the 7-12 Flor De Canas are every bit as good, legal, and cheap

I used to get free bottles from the B&M I bought CC from. I have had several different ones up to the 15 year old. I thought it was good rum, though I'm no rum expert, and I enjoyed the novelty of having it. That being said I would not go out of my way to get it nor would I pay a premium for it.

So I would say if you can get it with minimal hassle and for a good price go for it you won't regret it. Just don't expect it to be something spectacular.

[mosesbotbol]

Havana Club now has a NC version sold in USA; owned by Bacardi.

Is Bacardi manufactured still in Cuba?

[RGD.]

You know what - they are all decent to good rums. Sure there is always something better - heck, if you can get your hands on it grab a bottle of Cuban Mathusalem 15 Year old Rum -

But there is also a lot worse to be had.

I have the Añejo 7 year, Blanco and Anejo Especial. Use to have the Anejo 3 Anos. I say go ahead a grab a bottle if you want - use the whites for mixing and the others for sipping. You won't be disappointed unless you expect to fall to your knees and give homage to the Rum gods for the best drink.

Since we are tossing out other brands - one of my favorites, in addition to most of those listed already - is Mathusalem of the non-Cuban variety.


Ron

[a2vr6]

If you like sipping rum, Ron Abuelo Anejo 7 year from panama is much better than the HC stuff. ImHO

[icehog3]

A couple of friends and I polished off a bottle of HC7 the weekend before last, along with bottles of Centenario and Zacapa. Personally, I would take either of the latter two over HC.

[Wolfgang]

Have a bottle of HC 7 as well as Anejo Reserve. Gonna crack open the & year and compare it to Zaya. I will report back later.

[Wolfgang]

I will start by saying I am by no means an expert in any way.



The HC is quite a bit lighter than the Zaya. But the Zaya has 5 years on it.

HC- has hints of caramel while I sniff it. 3 short sniffs and the 3rd one reveals the caramel scent.

Zaya- As most of us know it has an almost overwhelming smell of sweet vanilla.

First taste

HC- Up front "bite" followed by floral goodness.

Zaya- No bite or harshness at first. then the vanilla kicks in. Very sweet.

Last taste

HC- Still harsher than the Zaya. Floral flavors following up some hints of sweetness.

Zaya- Vainlla isnt as profound as before but maybe my buds are overwhelmed.

Final thoughts

While I can see both having their place the HC7 for mixing Mojitos or Rum and coke, I find the Zaya an easier sipping rum since it is overall smoother. Amazing what 5 years will do.
Winner! ZAYA by a hair

I will end by saying that this is what I personally taste and smell and you may have a different opinion/experience.

[Nelson]

Rum is a man's drink. If you can't take the kick, drink Bailys irish cream
man that sort of rhymes

Thanks for your review Wolfgang