Aye!
My name is Leon, I am 25 years old, just finished my college education and I entered the world of Rum approx. 1-2 years ago. The question is: If you liked rum from the beginning which is the point marking you "getting serious" about it.
I'd say it happened on the night between 2012 and 2013. A good friend of mine (who had initially fueled my interest in rum) served me "something new". It was a glass of Diplomatico Reserva Exclusiva and at the time I was totally intoxicated. Before this event I mainly tried rum below 15€/20$ (prices are higher in Germany due to tax) and therefore Diplomatico was quite the eye opener. Shortly after this event I got a bottle for my own and began to research rum.
By now I widened my horizon significantly and have to agree with Capn Jimbo that Mount Gay XO is a treatment all on its own. Nevertheless I would still call me a beginner although my consistently rising enthusiasm helps to improve my tasting skills and knowledge.
I am eagerly looking forward to posting and discussing here at the rum project!
All the best!