El Dorado 12 years

The El Dorado 12 Years is a true classic among rum enthusiasts and is considered one of the finest expressions from Guyana. Produced by Demerara Distillers Limited, this rum is the result of masterful craftsmanship and unique distillation techniques. Distilled in the distillery's iconic wooden pot stills and aged for a minimum of 12 years in ex-bourbon casks, this rum offers a rich, layered flavor profile perfectly balancing sweetness, spice, and oak. El Dorado 12 is delightful neat, over ice, or as a luxurious base in cocktails.

Tasting note

Nose

Enticing aromas of dark sugar, vanilla, honey, and caramelized banana, complemented by hints of dark chocolate, nutmeg, and a touch of orange zest.

Palate

Full-bodied and velvety, with rich notes of toffee, butterscotch, and dried fruits like raisins and figs. Spicy accents of cinnamon, clove, and a hint of pepper add depth, while the oak imparts a subtle smokiness.

Finish

Long and warming, with lingering notes of sweet caramel, spices, and a gentle hint of roasted nuts and oak. An elegant finish that invites another sip.

El Dorado and the Unique World of Demerara Rum

El Dorado is one of the most iconic rum brands in the world, produced by Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL), based in Guyana. The name "El Dorado" refers to the mythical city of gold, and this rum lives up to its name with its rich history, exceptional quality, and deep, complex flavors.

What sets El Dorado apart is its unique production process. Guyana has a long-standing history of rum-making, and El Dorado builds on this tradition with a remarkable heritage. DDL owns several historic stills, some of which date back to the 18th century. These stills play a crucial role in creating the distinctive character of El Dorado rums.

The iconic stills of Demerara Distillers Limited

DDL uses some of the oldest and most unique stills in the world, each contributing its own specific role in crafting the signature flavors of El Dorado rum. Notable stills include:

Wooden Coffey Still

This is one of the last remaining wooden Coffey stills in the world. Originally used on the Enmore plantation, it produces a soft, complex rum with light notes of spice and fruit.

Double Wooden Pot Still

Hailing from the Port Mourant plantation, this is one of the last surviving double wooden pot stills. It creates a heavy, rich rum with notes of dark chocolate, spices, and a touch of wood.

Single Wooden Pot Still

This still comes from the Versailles plantation and is a single wooden pot still. The rum produced here has a distinctive character with flavors of fruit, spice, and a hint of smoke.

Savalle Still

This four-column Savalle still, originally from the Uitvlugt plantation, produces lighter, fruitier rums that are key components in many El Dorado blends.