The **Caroni 2000 64.3% Velier Basdeo 'Dicky' Ramsarran - Employees 4th Release** is a rare and exquisite rum that speaks volumes not only of its rich heritage but also of the passion and intricacy embedded in its production. Distilled in the now-closed **Caroni Distillery** in Trinidad and Tobago, this rum has been carefully bottled by **Velier**, a company renowned for their meticulous selection and presentation of spirits.
**The Spirit of Caroni Distillery**
Established in 1923, Caroni Distillery was known for producing rum from locally grown sugarcane, using molasses as the base. Their rums were historically adored for their rich, heavy, and distinctly flavorful profile, attributed to their traditional column still method. Although the distillery ceased operations in 2002, its rums continue to be venerated among enthusiasts and collectors, largely thanks to the careful aging and bottling by companies like Velier.
**Velier: Guardian of Legacy**
Velier, an Italian bottler headed by the legendary Luca Gargano, is known for its deep commitment to representing the authentic taste of the rums it acquires. Gargano’s approach to selecting rums involves not only tasting but also understanding and appreciating the history and process behind each spirit. This release, named after Basdeo 'Dicky' Ramsarran, one of the esteemed employees at Caroni, embodies Velier's philosophy of preserving and celebrating the distillery’s rich heritage.
**The Profound Character of the Caroni 2000 Release**
The **Caroni 2000 Basdeo 'Dicky' Ramsarran Edition** features rum distilled in 2000, during the final years of the distillery’s operations, embodying the essence and complexities developed over decades. Bottled in 2020, this rum has undergone tropical aging, a process that significantly influences the flavor profile due to the intense heat and humidity of the Caribbean. This aging environment accelerates the interaction between the rum and the oak barrels, leading to a more concentrated and deeply flavored end product. At a formidable 64.3% ABV, this rum promises an intensely rich and robust experience.
**Tasting Notes and Experience**
The high proof of this rum indicates a bold flavor profile that is both challenging and rewarding. On the nose, expect a complex bouquet of aromatics typical of Caroni's rums: heavy molasses, toffee, and hints of tobacco and leather, all enveloped in a smoky undertone. The palate would likely offer layers of flavors, from darker, caramelized notes to spicier accents, all leading to a long, lingering, and satisfying finish.
The smaller bottle size of 20cl makes this edition particularly appealing to collectors and enthusiasts seeking to experience or gift a piece of Trinidad’s rum history without committing to a full-sized bottle.
**Conclusion**
This Caroni 2000 64.3% by Velier is not just a spirit; it is an archive of flavor, tradition, and craftsmanship. It represents a time capsule from a beloved distillery whose products have become increasingly rare and revered. For the rum enthusiast, it offers a complex, engaging, and memorable sipping experience, marked by its historical significance and the meticulous care in its aging and bottling by Velier. The inclusion of Basdeo 'Dicky' Ramsarran's name serves as a fitting homage to the hard-working individuals behind Caroni's revered rums, making each sip a tribute to their dedication and skill.
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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