The Kraken Black Spiced Rum
The Kraken Black Spiced Rum is a bold, dark, and mysteriously spiced Caribbean rum that stands out with its distinct flavor profile and captivating lore. Named after the mythical sea beast of giant proportions, The Kraken is a Caribbean rum infused with a proprietary blend of 11 spices, presented in an iconic bottle designed to evoke Victorian-era rum bottles and the formidable tentacles of its namesake.
Key Characteristics:
- Caribbean Rum Base with 11 Spices: Crafted from a robust Caribbean rum, uniquely infused with a secret blend of 11 different spices, contributing to its complex and distinctive taste.
- Deep, Rich Color & High Proof: Boasting an exceptionally dark, almost inky black hue (achieved naturally with caramel color), and bottled at a robust 94 Proof (47% ABV) for amplified flavor and warmth.
- Distinctive Bottle & Mythical Branding: Instantly recognizable with its unique bottle design, distressed label, and Victorian-era aesthetic, heavily leaning into the legend of the Kraken sea monster.
Tasting Notes:
- Appearance: An incredibly dark, almost opaque black or very deep brown, strikingly resembling black ink.
- Nose: A rich and powerful aroma of sweet vanilla, robust coffee, and dark molasses. Prominent notes of cinnamon, ginger, and clove are apparent, often with hints of chocolate, licorice, and burnt caramel.
- Palate: Bold, smooth, and full-bodied. The palate explodes with flavors of dark treacle, rich vanilla, and strong baking spices. Notes of cinnamon, allspice, and clove are balanced by a distinct coffee or espresso bitterness, alongside chocolate, brown sugar, and a hint of licorice. It has a warming intensity from the proof, but the sweetness and spice prevent it from being overly harsh.
- Finish: Long, warming, and spicy. The finish lingers with notes of vanilla, black pepper, and a persistent, pleasant spice (cinnamon, ginger). Hints of burnt sugar, coffee, and a slight dry oakiness can also be detected, leaving a memorable, dark, and slightly sweet aftertaste.
Awards & Recognition:
The Kraken Black Spiced Rum has received various accolades, recognizing its distinctive qualities in the spiced rum category:
- Gold Medal — 2020 San Francisco World Spirits Competition (for Kraken Black Spiced Rum Black Roast)
- Gold Medal — 2019 Melbourne International Spirits Competition
- Silver Medal — 2023 The Spirits Business Rum Masters
- Silver Medal — 2020 International Wine & Spirit Competition
- Silver Medal — 2017 Miami Rum Renaissance Festival
- Consistently ranks among the top-selling spiced rums globally.
Overall Impression:
The Kraken Black Spiced Rum is a powerfully flavored and highly versatile spirit that has carved out a distinct niche in the rum market. Its deep, dark color, unique blend of 11 spices, and higher proof deliver a bold and memorable experience. It’s a fantastic choice for those who enjoy spiced rums with a strong character, perfect for elevating classic cocktails like a Cuba Libre (rum and cola) or a Dark ‘n’ Stormy. Its captivating branding and consistent quality make it a staple in many bars and a favorite among those who dare to delve into its mysterious depths.
