The 2011 International Wine & Spirit Competition bestowed six awards upon Demerara Distillers Ltd. and El Dorado, including a win in the prestigious Trophy category. In a repeat of last year, DDL outshone not only fellow Rum Distillers but was named the premiere Distiller (all spirits) in the Americas and Caribbean while the flagship Special Reserve 15 Year Old took home to Guyana the IWSC Trophy for Rum. A “perfect sipper” with “perfect balance and [a] rich, mature finish,” the 15 may have reached that peak of perfection DDL strives for with all their offerings.
“El Dorado isn’t Rum in the Raw, though: It’s a smooth and sophisticated rum that’s well worth seeking out” (Drink Hacker).
The charcoal-filtered 3 Year Old (white), a must have for the casual rum drinker to the serious mixologist received a silver medal as did the 5 Year Old and Special Reserve 21 Year Old, with both those rums awarded best in class distinctions. While the 15 was once again the big winner, its younger siblings, the Finest Demerara 12 Year Old and 8 Year Old both received gold medals as well as best in class distinctions. The 12, with its “massive, complex nose” and “beautiful balance” highlighted this unique blend that has huge cross-spirit appeal with bourbon drinkers, especially those looking to make a unique twist on a Manhattan or Old-Fashioned. The 8 is no slacker with its mixing versatility, either. Featured at this year’s Tales of the Cocktail Fresh Market Event, the 8 was a big hit in the Big Easy, paired with fresh and local New Orleans citrus, peppers, berries and aromatic herbs.
Launched in 1992, the El Dorado lineup has garnered much international interest and accolades, and receives a cult-like following in the UK. As El Dorado expands its availability throughout North America, rum connoisseurs and novices have enthusiastically embraced the lineup from the fabled City of Gold. Komal Samaroo, Vice-Chairman of DDL, sees no sun setting on DDL and El Dorado. “I can’t even keep track of all the awards in El Dorado’s short history, but, fully aware of the quality of Guyanese rum, it is easy to understand why the rums have been embraced with such passion.” It is also easy to understand how overwhelming it would be to keep track of El Dorado’s accolades; following is an abridged list of El Dorado’s awards over the years.
