Kirk and Sweeney Gran Reserva Superior Rum

Time to set sail.

Let’s be clear. Sonoma County in California is first and foremost wine country. August Sebastiani, the president of 3 Badge Beverages, is a fourth-generation member of one of its oldest wine families. Based in this fertile valley along the rugged Pacific coastline, the company, you guessed it – produces wine. Lately, they’ve broadened their portfolio to Spirits as well. Happy times.

Their commitment to craftsmanship and a deep connection to the family history transcend the make of the drink. The company offices are held in the same fire station Sebastiani’s grandfather helped build and where he volunteered. Their spirits division named Mixology includes the Rum brand Kirk and Sweeney, named after the wooden schooner best known for smuggling Rum from the Caribbean to the United States during Prohibition. With a load full of liquor, Kirk & Sweeney was seized off the coast of New York. Yikes. A good story doesn’t necessarily imply a good product, but in this case, it does. The adjective good doesn’t do it justice either. In fact, it’s one of the best artisan Rums on the market.

Of course, every fleet needs a flagship, so to say. Kirk and Sweeney Gran Reserva Superior Rum is the cream of the crop. Not just among the Kirk and Sweeney lineup but overall. The Rum is crafted in the Dominican Republic from raw sugar cane and aged for 23 years in American oak casks. A treasure from stem to stern, matey. Trust us or trust the awards, but this is as rich and complex Rum as you’re gonna get. Taste is subjective, of course, but if you like good Rum, it’s safe to say you’ll really appreciate this one. Even after you’re done with it.

What does that mean? Well, the unique bottle, even empty, belongs on a mantelpiece. But the cargo inside is even more alluring and desirable. After almost a quarter of a century spent in a barrel, the Spirit is fully matured and ready to be enjoyed. From nose to finish, you’ll be hard pressed to find a better Rum on the market. Time to set sail!

*Kirk and Sweeney has recently changed their labels, and as the original labels are being phased out, there is still a chance that you might receive a bottle different than what is pictured. But rest assured, the liquid remains the same, regardless of the label.