Kirk and Sweeney Gran Reserva

I loved the older versions that were labelled with years. The 23 year was one of my favorites. Not sure what changed but now they have chosen to move to the terms of Reserva and Gran Reserva. Very light caramel aroma. Caramel taste at the front end. I get a slight warming sensation quite a bit after.

Sampled at the Laka Lono Rum Club tasting on 8/9/22. Much hotter than the Reserva. Muted aroma. Big vanilla flavor. Much more woodiness. mild finish. Meh.

Very mild aroma with a stronger finish. Good just on ice, and better with each sip.

I became a K & S devotee when I first had the smooth and delicious 23 yo a3 years ago. This is like comparing a reasonably dependable Kia to a classic Rolls Royce. 👎
Anyone have a suggestion for a good replacement?

Just that, it's ok. There are others for the same price that are much better. I'd buy it again only if those weren't available.

Picked a bottle up over Christmas, had not tried this brand before and was attracted by the bottle. Looks good on the shelf but performance just not there for me, I'd prefer a Diplomatico over this, but its worth a try, definitely not an awful rum. Can't remember exactly what I paid for it but its up in the $45-55 range.

I’ve had several of the Kirk and Sweeney rums but this was really lacking. Nice honey color. The nose has notes of brown sugar, some spice, and vanilla. The taste mimics the nose. The finish has quite a bit of bite and isn’t smooth like its other siblings. I expected much more from a gran reserva.

It's OK, but not as good as the 18 or 23yo. Good burn to start. Not as mellow as other versions of Kirk and Sweeney. Disappointing considering the cost.

It appears K&S has changed from their 12 / 18 / 23 year names to Reserva, Gran Reserva, and Gran Reserva Superior. I rate this between the original 12 and 18 year releases from previous years. It is good, but not as great as the 18 year which I really enjoyed.

Got this in South Carolina. It is good, but definitely has some flaws that make it my least favorite of the Kirk and Sweeney selections. It lacks some depth and does have a mild chemical taste. Just okay for me…
Oddly, the bottle I got said Gran Reserva Superior. Does anyone know if this is a different iteration than the regular Gran Reserva?