APPLETON 2002 20 YEARS OLD 63% VELIER - HEARTS COLLECTION - VSGB

Jamaican rum stands as a testament to a rich heritage and unique style deeply ingrained within the culture of this tropical paradise. Among the best-known distilleries producing Jamaican rum is Appleton Estate, celebrated for its commitment to authenticity and excellence in crafting what can only be described as the essence of the island in a bottle. The Appleton 2002 20 Years Old 63% from Velier - Hearts Collection - VSGB exemplifies this tradition in a truly spectacular fashion.

Distillery and Brand Overview

Appleton Estate, one of the oldest and most famous distilleries in Jamaica, has been producing rum since 1749. Nestled in the lush, fertile Nassau Valley in Jamaica, the distillery's location plays a pivotal role in defining the flavors of its rums. Appleton harnesses the natural mineral-rich water and locally sourced sugarcane to produce a distinctive molasses - the foundation of their spirit. Known for a plethora of flavored profiles ranging from floral and fruity to spicy and nutty, Appleton stands as a beacon of premium quality rum production.

The 2002 vintage rum, featured as part of the Hearts Collection, was meticulously distilled in double retort pot stills, a traditional method that Appleton has refined to perfection. This method allows for a greater degree of control over the distillation process, bringing out a complex array of flavors and aromas inherent in the sugarcane-derived molasses.

Velier - The Bottler

Velier, based in Italy, is renowned as a top-tier independent bottler of some of the finest rums in the world. Under the skilled oversight of Luca Gargano, Velier has been instrumental in highlighting the quality of well-aged, high-strength rums. Their approach involves selecting exceptional batches of rums, which are then aged under specific climatic conditions to reach their optimum expression. The collaboration between Appleton and Velier, particularly with the Hearts Collection, signifies a confluence of tradition from the Jamaican heritage and artistry from one of Europe's most revered rum bottlers.

The VSGB (Very Special Golden Barrel) marking on this expression indicates an exceptional quality that caters to connoisseurs looking for one-of-a-kind tasting experiences. Aged twenty years in the tropical climate of Jamaica, the aging process is accelerated in comparison to temperate climates. This results in the rum embodying an intensely concentrated flavor, which makes every sip a reflection of its lengthy and warm maturation environment.

Tasting Notes and Production Details

At a cask strength of 63%, this Appleton 2002 offers a robust, vibrant palate juxtaposed with a pleasing warmth that unfolds its complexity elegantly. The aroma is evocative of rich oak intertwined with subtle hints of toffee, vanilla, and a whisper of the toasty sweetness characteristic of well-matured rums. The palate marries spiced oak with notes of dried fruit, nutmeg, and a crescendo of caramel that balances out the strong alcohol content.

This special release is limited to just 1,100 bottles, making it a sought-after addition for collectors and enthusiasts alike. Presented in a 10 cl bottle, it provides the perfect opportunity to taste a snapshot of Jamaican rum heritage without committing to a full-sized bottle.

Conclusion

The Appleton 2002 20 Years Old 63% elaborated by Velier - Hearts Collection - VSGB is more than just a rum; it is a historical narrative of Jamaican rum craftsmanship. For aficionados, the unique characteristics of this bottling, from its powerful strength to its deep, engaging flavors, make it a remarkable representation of Jamaica's revered rum-making tradition, enhanced by Velier's expert aging and curation. Owning this bottle is akin to possessing a piece of rum history, promising an exquisite journey with every pour.