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The Caroni 1991, aged 19 years and bottled at a powerful full proof 61.7% ABV, is not just a rum—it's a piece of liquid history from Trinidad and Tobago. This particular vintage, bottled by the renowned Italian bottler Velier, captures the essence and the raw spirit of what some rum enthusiasts consider the "Islay of rum" due to its intensely flavorful and robust profile.
Established in 1923 in Trinidad and Tobago, Caroni Distillery was known for producing heavy, robust rums using traditional column stills. What makes Caroni especially noteworthy is not just its rums, but its historical context. Once a key producer for the British Navy, its influence shaped the tastes of rum lovers worldwide until its closure in 2002. This closure has led to the veneration of Caroni's stocks, which have been slowly released, causing collectors and enthusiasts to covet each release for its unique characteristics and finite nature.
The Caroni 1991 is distinctly marked by having been aged under tropical conditions for 19 years. Tropical aging promotes an accelerated interaction between the wood and the spirit, offering a deeper and more intense maturation. This process results in a complex array of flavors that include deep molasses, powerful oak, and a multitude of spices, underpinned by the unmistakable tar-like quality that Caroni is famous for.
This particular bottle was distilled in 1991 and experienced the entirety of its aging in the warm, humid climate of Trinidad before being bottled by Velier in 2010. With only 1098 bottles produced for real, (though 1518 bottles are labeled due to a numbering error), this release is a rare treasure that highlights the artisanal, almost accidental alchemy of Caroni's distillation and aging process.
Luca Gargano, the proprietor of Velier, has been instrumental in ushering some of the world's most profound rum experiences to connoisseurs. Known for his discerning eye and profound passion for authentic rum production, his collaboration with Caroni involves selecting some of the most illustrious barrels from the distillery’s stocks. His commitment to presenting rums at cask strength without any additives or dilutions preserves the full integrity of the rum’s character. This philosophy shines prominently through each bottle of Caroni he presents, without dilution, without compromise.
Given the finite stock of Caroni rum following its distillery's closure, each bottle released under the Caroni name—particularly older batches like the 1991 vintage—is increasingly deemed collectible. The rarity of this rum, combined with the high proof and exclusive bottling process by Velier, makes it a valuable addition to any discerning spirit collector's inventory.
The profile of Caroni 1991 is heavy with molasses and rich with layers of burnt caramel, leather, and tobacco—all enveloped in a distinctive smoky undertone akin to a finely aged Scotch. This intense complexity is further heightened by the rum's full proof strength, unleashing bold flavors that sit persistently on the palate. With each sip, one uncovers new subtleties and nuances, from a hint of dried fruit to a whisper of vanilla, testament to its prolonged and dynamic maturation process.
The Caroni 1991 19 Years Old by Velier embodies the history, art, and passion of traditional Trinidadian rum making. Its rich, intense flavors and deep, enticing aromas encapsulate not just the spirit of a bygone era in Caribbean distilling but also the spirit of innovation and excellence that Velier brings to rum enthusiasts around the world. A must-have for collectors and enthusiasts alike, this bottle not only serves as a remarkable beverage but also as a piece of Caribbean legacy continued through Velier's meticulous curation.
Please note: Due to the various ages of bottles and their seals, condition of liquid is at the buyer's discretion and no claim can be lodged against failure/leakage in transit. Please ensure that you undertake close up viewing/inspection prior to placing any bid. If you have questions beyond the offered description and images, please click 'Ask a question' to make a specific enquiry or to receive more in-depth condition report. Lots will be sold as seen and described.
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