ENGLISH HARBOUR (ANTIGUA DISTILLERY) 1981 40%

The English Harbour 1981 from Antigua Distillery is not just a bottle of rum; it's a piece of Caribbean history. Bottled at 40% ABV in a 70 cl format, this exquisite rum offers a deep dive into the rich tapestry of Antiguan culture and tradition. Aged in a tropical climate, which expedites the aging process due to higher temperatures and humidity, this rum showcases a complexity and depth that can only be achieved under such intense conditions.

**Antigua Distillery Limited** is the proud creator of the English Harbour rums. Located on the beautiful island of Antigua and Barbuda, the distillery has been producing rum since the early 1930s. However, its origins trace back even further, to a time when small-scale rum shops distilled their own, uniquely crafted spirits. Today, Antigua Distillery maintains a commitment to traditional methods while embracing modern techniques to craft its renowned rums. The distillery is famed for its use of the traditional **Savalle column still**, a style of still that is pivotal in defining the light, crisp characteristics of their rums.​

The English Harbour 1981 draws its distinctive character from a meticulous production process starting with high-quality molasses. It then undergoes fermentation and distillation in the esteemed Savalle column still that refines and concentrates the spirit, balancing its robust flavors. What follows is an aging process in oak barrels, under the relentless sun of the Caribbean, which imparts this rum with a rich, golden color and an array of subtle, yet complex flavors.

When it comes to tasting, the English Harbour 1981 reveals a palette of intricate flavors and aromas. On the nose, expect to find a gentle harmony of toffee, spiced oak, and hints of smoke - a bouquet that promises depth. The palate doesn't disappoint, delivering layers of caramel, vanilla, and dried fruits which seamlessly meld with tones of chocolate and a hint of tobacco. Finally, the finish is long and satisfying with a warm, spicy linger that encapsulates the tropical aging process.

This rum, being an official bottling from 1981, represents an exceptional vintage. For collectors and enthusiasts, the English Harbour 1981 is more than rum; it is a collector’s piece and a symbol of Antigua’s rich distilling heritage. Such a vintage is rare and becomes more valuable as time progresses, both in terms of flavor development and collectability.

The presentation of this rum is equally distinguished. The bottle encapsulates the essence of Antigua’s past, combining simple elegance with a sense of robust history. It’s a testament to the resilience and enduring spirit of Antigua Distillery’s dedication to rum making. As such, the English Harbour 1981 does not merely represent a beverage choice, but a treasurable experience that connects the sipper to the soul of Antigua.

In summary, the English Harbour 1981 is a standout expression from Antigua and Barbuda, reflecting the prowess of Antigua Distillery and their mastery of rum making. It represents the pinnacle of Caribbean rum craftsmanship: a superb blend of history, tradition, and tropical aging that results in a rum as radiant and vibrant as the island from which it originates. Whether sipped neat, with a splash of water, or as the cornerstone of a luxurious cocktail, the English Harbour 1981 invites connoisseurs and casual admirers alike to savor a distinguished member of the rum world. It’s a vivid reminder of why Antiguan rums are respected and celebrated across the globe.