CARONI 1985 20 YEARS OLD 75,5% VELIER - FULL PROOF

The **Caroni 1985 20 Years Old 75.5% Velier - Full Proof** represents an extraordinary treasure from the now-defunct Caroni Distillery, a jewel in the world of rum collectors and enthusiasts alike. This specific release, distilled in 1985 and aged for 20 years, showcases a perfect portrait of Caroni's heavily esteemed and unique style before its closure in 2002.

**Origin and Production**

Caroni Distillery was located on the islands of Trinidad and Tobago—a twin island country where sugarcane was once a major industry. The distillery was renowned for producing rum with a distinctive heavy style, attributed to the use of molasses and a column still for distillation. This method particularly favored the development of deep, rich flavors through a slower and more controlled process of fermentation and distillation.

This rum, as indicated, was distilled from molasses, a traditional base for Caribbean rums, which contributes to its robust and flavorful profile. The Caroni 1985 was left to age in the tropical climate of Trinidad, which accelerates the aging process due to the intense heat and humidity. This environment results in a greater interaction between the wooden casks and the rum, thereby imbuing the rum with an intense depth and complexity of flavors much more quickly than in cooler climates.

**Bottling and Release**

Bottled by Velier, an Italian independent bottler known for its uncompromising dedication to quality and its prowess in selecting exceptional spirits, this specific bottling of the Caroni 1985 highlights why Velier has such a revered status among spirit connoisseurs. Under the guidance of Luca Gargano, Velier has been instrumental in promoting what many refer to as “full proof” spirits. The term implies that the rum is bottled at the same strength it was in the barrel, without any dilution, capturing the pure essence and intensity of the original distilled product. Indeed, the formidable 75.5% ABV strength of this release confirms that it was bottled at full cask strength, offering an unadulterated glimpse into the vintage character of Caroni’s production.

**Tasting Notes and Characteristics**

A sip of Caroni 1985 20 Years Old from Velier is a comprehensive tour through a spectrum of intricate flavors and aromatic complexity. Anticipate the potent nose filled with layers of burnt caramel, tobacco, and oak, trailed by the rich warmth of molasses and smoky nuances—a signature of Caroni's storied rums. The palate doesn’t step back, presenting an ensemble of leather, dried fruit, and spices, each sip unfurling further into a long, satisfying savory finish.

**Rarity and Collectability**

The rarity of this spirit is marked further by its limitation to just 125 bottles, making it a coveted addition for collectors and aficionados of rare rums. Few spirits can claim the cult status achieved by Caroni’s aged rums, and each bottle from Velier is a piece of Caribbean distilling history that offers not only an exquisite taste experience but also holds potential as a valuable investment piece.

**Final Thoughts**

The Caroni 1985 20 Years Old 75.5% Velier - Full Proof is more than just a rum; it's a capsule of history, a collectible artifact of a bygone era and a distillery that once was a cornerstone of Trinidad’s rum production. For those lucky enough to acquire and taste it, this rum offers a profound experience, rich with the legacy of Caroni and the masterful curation by Velier. This intensely flavorful, full-proof rum is a testament to the timeless allure of Caroni’s spirit-making artistry and Velier’s dedication to preserving and celebrating it.