First Impressions
Ron Abuelo's Two Oaks takes a 12-year-old rum matured in ex-bourbon barrels and finishes it in heavily-charred virgin American oak. The heavy charring of the finishing casks creates a distinctly smoky character that separates this from the standard Abuelo range.
Tasting Notes
The nose is immediately smoky. Charred oak leads, with vanilla, marshmallow, and dark caramel providing sweetness. Dried fruit and charred wood round things out. On the palate, the smoke is the star — charred oak depth creates a distinctive character, while vanilla cream and dark caramel add richness. Dried fruit sweetness and marshmallow softness balance the smokier notes.
The finish is long, with smoky oak and dark caramel persisting in a warm, charred close.
How to Drink It
Neat or in a smoky Old Fashioned variation. The charred oak character also makes it an interesting pairing with BBQ food.
The Bottom Line
Ron Abuelo Two Oaks earns a 7 — a distinctive, smoky rum from Panama's most respected producer. At £57, the 12-year age and double-oak treatment represent fair value. The smokiness genuinely sets it apart.
