CARONI 1982 23 YEARS OLD 62% VELIER - HEAVY TRINIDAD RUM

The CARONI 1982 23 YEARS OLD 62% VELIER - HEAVY TRINIDAD RUM is a sublime testament to the legacy and craft of Trinidadian rum-making. Distilled at the iconic Caroni Distillery, this particular rum has captivated enthusiasts with its deep, complex character and historical significance.

Founded in 1923 in Trinidad & Tobago, Caroni Distillery was renowned for producing high-ester rums from molasses with their column stills, capturing the unique essence of the local sugarcane. This expression, distilled in 1982 and aged for 23 years in the tropical climate of Trinidad, exemplifies the distillery's mastery in rum creation. The tropical aging contributes significantly to the rum's concentrated flavors and accelerated maturation, owing to the intense heat and humidity of the Caribbean. This environment imparts a distinct robustness and depth to the spirit, which is often hard to replicate in cooler climates.

Bottled at a cask strength of 62%, this rum is not for the faint-hearted. Its robust ABV promises an intense flavor profile and a rich, full-bodied experience. The use of a column still during production also signifies a level of purity and a cleaner distillation process, which allows the true characteristics of the molasses base to shine through.

The Caroni 1982 23-year-old is bottled by Velier, an independent bottler based in Genoa, Italy, known for its meticulous selection of high-quality spirits. Velier is reputed for bottling unadulterated, non-chill-filtered rums and whiskies, providing aficionados with the most authentic and unmodified tastes of the distillery’s output. This release by Velier consists of only 1360 bottles, making it a rare and highly desirable collectors' item. Velier's commitment to craftsmanship and authenticity ensures that each bottle offers an unrivaled tasting experience that resonates with the distinctive character of its origin.

The rich tapestry of flavors in this bottle is a journey for the palate, featuring a bold symphony of caramel, tobacco, and dark chocolate, with hints of leather and tropical fruits. The heavy body of this rum, coupled with its lingering finish, showcases the superior quality of its production and careful aging. It also reflects the signature style of Caroni, often characterized by its potent and smoky flavor profile.

For collectors and enthusiasts, the Caroni 1982 23 Years Old holds not just an exquisite flavor profile but also a piece of history. Since the closure of Caroni Distillery in 2002, each bottle from this lost distillery increases in value and rarity, making it a prized possession for rum collectors worldwide. This particular expression is a celebration of Caroni's inimitable style and legacy, preserved and presented by Velier with great respect and expertise.

Overall, the Caroni 1982 23 Years Old by Velier represents a pinnacle of rum craftsmanship. From its historical significance, rare bottling, exquisite taste to the careful maturation process under tropical conditions, it encapsulates the spirit of Trinidadian rum-making in every drop. For those privileged enough to taste it, this rum provides not just a sensory delight but a vivid glimpse into the rich rum heritage of Trinidad and Tobago.