HAMPDEN 2010 9 YEARS OLD 59% VELIER - THE NEW YORK EDITION CASK #327

Hampden 2010 9 Years Old 59% Velier - The New York Edition Cask #327 stands as a treasure among rum connoisseurs, offering a profound glimpse into the quintessence of high-ester Jamaican rums. This exceptional release from the esteemed Hampden Distillery, celebrated for its fearless embrace of intense flavors and traditional distillation methods, encapsulates both heritage and innovation.

Origin & Distillery

The Hampden Distillery, dating back to 1753, is lauded for preserving the storied art of Jamaican rum-making. Nestled in the lush, verdant hills of Trelawny Parish, Jamaica, this distillery remains one of the few in the world to exclusively utilize wild fermentation techniques and distillation in traditional pot stills. This meticulous process ensures a rum packed with complex, robust flavors that are highly sought after by enthusiasts.

Bottler - Velier

The rum was bottled by Velier, a reputable Italian bottling company known for its discerning selection of rums and spirits. Founded in 1947 by Casimir Chaix, Velier is famed for its collaboration with top-tier distilleries across the Caribbean to offer bottlings that are often regarded as some of the finest in the world. Their dedication to quality and authenticity is vividly reflected in this limited edition release, The New York Edition, emphasizing their prowess in showcasing unique and exquisite profiles of rum.

Rum Profile

Distilled in 2010 and bottled after 9 years, this rum demonstrates the profound impact of tropical aging, with a faster maturation rate due to the warm Jamaican climate. This accelerated maturation imbues the rum with an intensified depth and complexity of flavors. The rum was aged in an ex-bourbon cask, noted for adding subtle, sweet vanilla tones and a smooth finish to the fiery ester-rich profile that Hampden’s rums famously exhibit.

The high ABV of 59% gives this rum an assertive character that purists appreciate, providing a powerful yet pleasing heat that balances its rich and intricate flavor profile. The molasses base contributes deep, caramelized tones that are characteristic of traditional Jamaican rums.

Tasting Notes

On the nose, the Hampden 9 Years Old offers a bouquet of ripe tropical fruits intertwined with hints of vanilla and toasted oak, emanating from its ex-bourbon cask maturation. The palate is greeted with a bold symphony of flavors including banana, pineapple, and a touch of spice that leads to a long, satisfyingly warm finish. The vivid flavors are testament to the pot still production method, known for preserving the natural and vibrant flavor compounds of the molasses.

Collectibility and Rarity

Limited to just 267 bottles, each numbered, this edition is a collector’s gem. The exclusivity is underlined by its designation - The New York Edition - which was specially selected for its unique characteristics that epitomize the expertise of both Hampden and Velier. Collectors and enthusiasts of rare spirits will find great intrigue and value in acquiring a bottle from this limited run.

Conclusion

The Hampden 2010 9 Years Old 59% Velier - The New York Edition is more than just a rum; it is a statement of craft, tradition, and the untamed spirit of Jamaica’s rum-making heritage. For those keen to explore the deluxe range of high-ester rums or expand their collection with a rare and distinguished bottling, this rum presents a sublime opportunity.

Enjoy it neat or with a small splash of water to unravel its complex layers and full spectrum of flavors, quintessential for a tasting experience that is as rewarding as it is enlightening.