On November 6, 2010 Jackie O’s released its first rum barrel aged beer, Oil of Aphrodite. The rum barrel that we received, imparted such a distinct and decadent character, I knew that we had to give that same barrel another fill. We have done this in the past with bourbon barrels and found that the bourbon character is very subtle and the oak flavors tend to be more pronounced. We crossed our fingers and filled the rum barrel with Dark Apparition, hoping to further harvest the amazing wealth of rum character that barrel had initially offered.

I checked on it after it’s initial 3-month aging period, and was delighted to discover the same incredible flavors from the first fill. Most noticeable was the candied orange character, although not as strong, it was still an integral part of the beer. 30 Madagascar vanilla beans were added to the barrel. The beer and beans aged in the barrel for an additional 2 months before being bottled. Vanilla Bean Rum Barrel Dark Apparition is a beautiful beer that embodies many bold flavors and aromas without being over the top. Enjoy with friends and loved ones.