I got this today as it was on sale, $59 down from about $75. Cannot go wrong there! Thanks Dan Murphy!
Black Cherry is a flavour I don’t see much in Australia. You can get everything in cherry flavour in the USA, yet here… It’s quite uncommon.
If you’re the kind of bloke who likes his drinks dark, bold, and packing a bit of a punch, Kraken’s latest limited edition should definitely be on your radar. The Kraken Black Spiced Rum Black Cherry & Madagascan Vanilla isn’t just another flavoured rum; it’s a deep dive into something dangerously smooth. So dangerous that I drank the whole bottle straight on a work night.
Let’s start with the packaging. Kraken always nails the aesthetics with its signature bottle, tentacled beast front and centre. It’s got that gothic edge that makes it feel like something Captain Jack Sparrow would smuggle. The Black Cherry & Madagascan Vanilla version keeps that same dark energy, with hints of red and gold in the design that give it a luxurious twist.
Unscrew the lid and you’re hit with a surprisingly smooth, rich aroma. Think black forest cake with a shot of espresso. There’s a deep cherry scent, not too sweet, but warm and rich, followed by a wave of vanilla that’s more creamy than sugary. Underneath it all, the spice is still there, giving it that classic Kraken edge.
Neat or on the rocks, this rum is indulgent. The black cherry comes through first, juicy, dark, almost liqueur-like. Then the Madagascan vanilla kicks in, mellowing it out and adding a silky finish. But just when you think it’s all dessert, the traditional Kraken spice creeps in, cinnamon, clove, a bit of nutmeg, just enough to remind you this is still a beast of a rum.
It’s 40% ABV, so it’s no pushover. But the flavour profile makes it dangerously sippable.
Final Verdict
Kraken’s Black Cherry & Madagascan Vanilla isn’t for everyone, but if you’re into bold flavour, dark aesthetics, and something a bit different from the usual rum shelf suspects, it’s a winner.
It’s dessert meets danger, and it works.
Score: 8.5/10
A solid winter warmer with enough bite to keep things interesting. Grab it while it lasts,it’s a limited edition, and with flavour like this, it won’t be around for long.
