Black Strap
ReferenceU.S. Virgin Islands, Caribbean
ABV40% standard for most expressions. Viscosity from molasses, not proof.
Sub-styles
Tasting Notes
Dark molasses, burnt sugar, bitter chocolate, coffee, licorice, tar, toffee, dried fruit, slight smoke. The molasses character should be assertive, not cloyingly sweet. Good blackstrap has bitterness and depth; bad ones are just caramel coloring and sugar. Compared to gold or aged rum: dramatically heavier and more assertive.
Brand Guide
Well
Cruzan Black Strap ($16-20)
Call
Goslings Black Seal ($22-28)
Premium
Plantation Original Dark, Coruba Dark ($30-40)
Top Shelf
Hamilton 86, Smith & Cross (darker profiles, $38+). Cruzan Black Strap is the category workhorse
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The Story
The darkest byproduct of Caribbean sugar mills, distilled into liquid bittersweet intensity.