CARONI 1996 20 YEARS OLD 70,28% VELIER - CASK R3711 LMDW TRILOGY

The CARONI 1996 20 YEARS OLD 70,28% VELIER is a monumental expression of rum, aged for 20 rigorous years in the tropical climate of Trinidad and Tobago, and presents an embodiment of the storied heritage and masterful craftsmanship that Caroni Distillery was famed for. Each bottle from this limited release exemplifies the intricate and complex character of a bygone era of rum production.

Distilled back in 1996, this rum has undergone an extensive aging process in the hot, humid conditions of the Caribbean. The tropical climate accelerates the interaction between the rum and the oak wood of the casks, imbuing the spirit with a profound depth of flavor and a rich array of aromas much more aggressively than in temperate climes. This intense interaction results in a loss of volume known as the "Angel's Share," but the remaining liquid becomes exceptionally concentrated in both flavor and texture. The Caroni 1996 has been matured for 20 years in cask number R3711, culminating in a rum that is not just a drink, but a luxurious experience.

Caroni Distillery, established in 1923, was situated in Trinidad and was renowned for producing rums of exceptional quality using traditional column stills until its closure in 2002. The distillery sourced its molasses, a rich, dark sugar by-product, locally. This base ingredient was crucial to the creation of Caroni’s distinctive and robust style of rum, characterized by its full-bodied profile and smoky notes. Today, bottlings from Caroni are highly coveted among collectors and connoisseurs, as each bottle captures a piece of Trinidad’s rum-making heritage that has ceased to exist.

The bottler, Velier, is revered in the spirits community for its dedication to releasing exceptional, high-strength, and often tropically aged spirits. Established in 1947 by Casimiro Chaix in Genoa, Italy, Velier has gained a remarkable reputation under the leadership of Luca Gargano, who took over in the late 70s. Gargano, a luminary in the world of spirits, has been pivotal in introducing connoisseurs to pure, unaltered rums, emphasizing the importance of aging and distillation methods. Velier's commitment to presenting spirits as they were meant to be experienced - with no additives or modifications - ensures that enthusiasts enjoy a pure, undiluted encounter with the spirit's true essence.

The specifics of this release are notable; the rum is bottled at an eye-watering 70.28% alcohol by volume, presenting an unapologetic and powerful profile. Each of the 200 bottles of this rum offers a snapshot of the historic distillery’s rigorous standards and the tropical aging environment. Usual bottling strength typically ranges much lower, which makes this particular bottle a rare treasure for both its intensity and its authenticity.

For the discerning collector, the Caroni 1996 20 Years Old from Velier represents not just a sip of rum, but a taste of history. Every aspect of this bottling - from its impressive strength, through the unique climate-affected aging process, to the very specific cask used - contributes to a narrative that is as deep and complex as the rum itself. Owning and tasting this rum isn’t just about enjoying a drink; it's about experiencing a piece of Trinidad's lost distilling art. Such an opportunity is incredibly rare and is treasured by those fortunate enough to experience it.

Equally worth highlighting is the collaboration with La Maison du Whisky (LMDW), a leading French spirits retailer known for its expertise and expansive selection spanning rare and sought-after spirits. This partnership for the "Trilogy" series further accentuates the exclusivity and allure of this release, promising a product of unmatched quality and rarity.

In summary, the CARONI 1996 20 Years Old 70,28% VELIER - CASK R3711 LMDW TRILOGY is not just a testament to the skilled rum-making legacy of Trinidad and Tobago but also a symbol of superior craftsmanship and passion. It marks a pivotal moment in the legacy of Caroni and Velier, offering an unparalleled rum experience that is intensely satisfying and incredibly exclusive.