I’ve wondered for a while what actually separates Ron Abuelo 12 from Ron Abuelo XII Two Oaks, and whether “Añejo XII Años” even qualifies as a real age statement. You can see my review for that at the bottom.

Review

Smell

Tasting alongside both Ron Abuelo 7 Year and XII Two Oaks, it really is like a step ladder in terms of aroma. The 7 year does have notes of oak and vanilla, but also a slight citrusy, floral note. The 12 year is richer than the 7, with bolder oak and vanilla but less floral citrus notes. By XII, it is very oaky, very vanilla, and the citrus floral aroma is gone entirely.

Taste

Next to the 7, the 12 is bolder in vanilla, a little more sour, and has less young character. The 7 would still work fine in a mojito, while 12 is richer and less bright and definitely intended for sipping. XII is even more bold. It is a bit more sour and it’s significantly more dry and tannic than the 12.

Verdict 6/10

Overall, Ron Abuelo makes some of my favorite rums in the Central American category, though it’s significantly sweeter than some competitors, like Flor de Caña.

I would say that the 12 year is a bit worse as a mixer than the 7, but improved as a sipping rum from the greater oak and vanilla flavor, though all are quite sweet. I would put them about equal in score for that reason, just suited for different purposes. 6/10