CARONI 1994 23 YEARS OLD 59,8% VELIER - LUNARDON MAGNUM | CASK R6126

The Caroni 1994 23 Years Old, presented at a formidable 59.8% ABV, is an exceptional vintage rum from the now-defunct Caroni Distillery, bottled by the renowned Italian bottler Velier. Restricted to a very limited release of only 109 magnum bottles, this rum is a collector's dream and a testament to the rich, complex heritage of Trinidadian rum. Known for its full-bodied, intensely flavorful profiles, Caroni rum has garnered a devoted following among connoisseurs.

The heritage of Caroni is deeply embedded in the history of Trinidad and Tobago. Established in 1923, the Caroni Distillery was initially part of a sugar factory that dates back to the 17th century. For decades, it was one of the Caribbean’s most prolific producers of molasses-based rum, using column stills to achieve a distinctive heavy style that has long been favored in the blending of British Navy rums. This particular batch was distilled in 1994, three years before the distillery ceased operations in 1997.

What makes this rum exceptionally rare is its aging process. The Caroni 1994 was aged for 23 years in a tropical climate, a factor that significantly accelerates the interaction between the rum and the oak of the barrels, compared to cooler climates. This intense, accelerated aging imbues the rum with profound complexity and depth, featuring rich notes of burnt caramel, spices, and perhaps a hint of tobacco and leather, typical of long-aged Caroni rums.

This specific cask, number R6126, was selected and bottled by Velier, a name synonymous with some of the world’s most sought-after rums. Founded in 1947 by Casimiro Chaix in Genoa, Italy, Velier is famed for its meticulous selection process and its commitment to offering unaltered rums at cask strength. Under the stewardship of Luca Gargano, whose visionary approach includes the championing of pure, unadulterated flavors and the promotion of traditional distillation methods, Velier has been instrumental in bringing legendary rums like those from Caroni back to the forefront of the rum world. The decision to bottle this Caroni rum as a magnum adds even more allure, promising a longer repository life and the joy of sharing a larger volume during special gatherings.

The presentation of Caroni 1994 23 Years Old from cask R6126 respects the full integrity of the original distillate, offering it at natural strength without any dilution, which ensures that all the intricate flavors and aromatic complexity developed over more than two decades are preserved. Every sip invites a deep dive into a tapestry of tastes that define premium Trinidadian rum, made even more profound by the rum's historical and geographical tapestry.

This release is not just a beverage but a piece of Caribbean history, a collectible artifact from a bygone era of rum production. The Velier Caroni 1994, therefore, isn’t just admired for its gastronomic qualities but also cherished as a cultural relic. True aficionados of rare spirits will appreciate both its scarcity and its distinctive, bold profile, making it an exquisite addition to any distinguished spirit collection. Collectors and enthusiasts understand that acquiring a bottle like this represents not just an investment in rum, but in the legacy left behind by one of the most storied distilleries in the West Indies.

For those who manage to acquire one of the 109 bottles of this extraordinary magnum, the experience of tasting Caroni 1994 is both a privilege and a journey back in time to the golden age of Trinidadian rum. It embodies the unyielding spirit of Caroni, offering a unique and unforgettable sensory experience, steeped in history and crafted with mastery.