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The CARONI 1998 68,3% VELIER Dayanand 'Yunkoo' Balloon - Employees 4th Release is a remarkable expression of the historic Caroni distillery's craftsmanship, intricately distributed by Velier, known for its meticulous selection of rare and profound spirits. This limited edition rum, encapsulated in a 20cl bottle, reflects a blend of heritage, robust flavor, and an homage to one of Caroni's celebrated employees, Dayanand 'Yunkoo' Balloon, marking it as the fourth release in the exclusive Employees series.
The Caroni distillery, established in 1923 in Trinidad and Tobago, was renowned for producing heavy, rich rums from molasses with a unique production method using a column still. However, its closure in 2002 led to the rum becoming highly sought after by collectors and connoisseurs worldwide. The vintage for this particular bottle is 1998, a prime period for Caroni’s production, allowing the rum to showcase the distinct qualities that make the distillery’s output legendary.
This Caroni rum's aging process is another notable aspect. Aged in a tropical climate, the intense heat and humidity of Trinidad have accelerated the maturation process, creating a concentration of flavors that might take much longer to develop under cooler conditions. The tropical aging imparts a depth to the rum that is complex, bold, and incredibly rich, marked by an evocative flavor profile reflective of its origin.
Velier, the bottler of this exquisite rum, has been instrumental in preserving and celebrating the legacy of Caroni. Founded in 1947 in Genoa, Italy, Velier is lauded for its dedication to authenticity and quality. Known widely for Luca Gargano’s visionary leadership, Velier has developed a reputation for bottling some of the most compelling and historically significant rums in the world. Their approach involves selecting rums that offer unique stories and outstanding quality, often from distilleries that no longer exist, such as Caroni.
This release's high strength of 68,3% ABV is indicative of Velier’s penchant for presenting rums in their most authentic and unreduced form. This not only preserves the original flavors and character of the rum but also presents a purer reflection of its historical and geographical origin. It’s a characteristic that is both a challenge and a reward for those who choose to experience it, offering a taste profile that is as close as possible to its natural state within the barrels.
The presentation of this rum, belonging to the Employees series, specifically acknowledges the contribution of Dayanand 'Yunkoo' Balloon, a notable figure in the Caroni story. This touch adds a personal layer to each bottle, connecting the spirit’s admirers not only to the place and process of its creation but also to the people who played a part in its history. Each release in this series deepens the narrative woven around Caroni's enduring legacy and enhances the collector's experience by highlighting the individuality and character of the distillery’s team.
In conclusion, the CARONI 1998 68,3% Velier Dayanand 'Yunkoo' Balloon represents more than just a high-strength, tropically aged rum. It encapsulates a piece of Caribbean history, a tribute to craftsmanship, and the poignant story of a distillery’s vibrant community. For enthusiasts and collectors, owning this bottle is not only an acquisition of a rare and exceptional spirit but also a preservation of a rich narrative that continues to captivate and fascinate rum lovers around the globe.
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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