5 | Spirits | Less than $10, 375 ml

"The no-nonsense bouquet opens up with marshmallow, light toffee and light honey. Early taste is sweet and molasses-centric, then at midpalate there’s a spiced honey flavor that gently guides you to the creamy, cake frosting finish. I liked this affable spiced rum when I first reviewed it 12 years ago and I still like it." 85-89 pts.

"The bouquet is appealing, ripe, fruity and berry-like. The palate entry is pomegranate-like, extremely sour, acidic and tart; the midpalate is less aggressive and riper. Finishes tart, amazingly clean and ripe. A wonderful cocktail ingredient." 90-95 pts.

"Bright golden amber color. Aromas of baked bananas, praline, and polished wood follow through on a soft entry to a dryish light-to-medium body with pepper, metal ore, and lacquer notes. Finishes with a lightly spiky pepper and earth fade." Bronze Medal.

"A lovely, sophisticated bourbon bouquet comprising fruity, cornmeal aromas which are followed by a red fruit scent, all underpinned by an oaky vanilla quality. Entry is reserved, gently sweet and toffee-like; the midpalate features succulent tastes of light caramel, honeywheat bread, caramel corn and toasted almond. Concludes fruity and corny. The best value American whiskey in the marketplace." Best Buy. 85-89 pts.

"Creamy powdered sugar and talc aromas. Supple and delicate on the palate with a lightly glycerous texture and dusty minerality with hints of sweet anise and citrus. Finishes soft and clean."