HAMPDEN LFCH 2011 9 YEARS OLD 60,6% VELIER - BECARD SINGLE CASK #299 | EBS

The exquisite Hampden LFCH 2011 9 Years Old 60.6% Velier - Becard Single Cask #299 stands as a testament to the rich tradition and craftsmanship of Jamaican rum. This special release by the acclaimed independent bottler Velier is a powerhouse of flavor, distilled in 2011 and carefully aged for nine years, predominantly under the warm, tropical climate of Jamaica—a factor that significantly influences the maturation process, intensifying the rum’s complexities.

Hampden Distillery, the source of this particular rum, is heralded for its dedication to traditional rum-making methods. Located in the lush, picturesque terrain of Trelawny Parish, Jamaica, the distillery possesses a storied history that dates back to the 1750s. Known for producing rums with a high ester content, which imparts a rich and pungent flavor profile, Hampden uses natural fermentation and time-honored distillation methods to craft its distinctive spirits. This rum was distilled using a single retort pot still, which is crucial in developing its unique character.

The rum was aged in a single cask, number 299, which helped to concentrate its flavors and impart depth. It was bottled in 2020 by Velier, a company famous for its discerning cask selection and bottling of rare spirits without dilution or filtration. The LFCH mark on this bottle indicates a specific ester range that promises a robust flavor profile, including potential notes of tropical fruits, spices, and a long, intense finish. The high ester content also suggests a powerful aromatic presence that can transform any tasting experience into something truly exceptional.

Velier, based in Italy, is renowned for its uncompromising approach to sourcing and bottling the world’s most exceptional spirits. Under the guidance of Luca Gargano, whose influence has shifted the perception of rum worldwide, Velier offers connoisseurs access to unparalleled expressions of vintage rum. The company’s philosophy centers on presenting spirits as authentically as possible, mirroring the environment in which they were created. This is vividly demonstrated in each bottle, where the pure essence of the spirit is maintained, presenting a strength of 60.6% alcohol by volume in this case.

This Velier bottling is limited to just 240 bottles, making it a rare gem for collectors and enthusiasts alike. The molasses-based rum, presented in a 70 cl bottle, showcases the richness that can be achieved through skilled fermentative and distillative practices. Its robust strength and the tropical aging imbue the spirit with a complexity and depth that are hard to find in younger or more temperately aged rums.

Savoring the Hampden LFCH 2011 offers a dive into the deep heritage of Jamaican rum production, punctuated by the artistry of Velier’s curation. This release is not only a beverage but a piece of history, perfect for those who seek to explore the profound spectrum of flavors that quality rum can offer. Whether enjoyed neat, with a splash of water, or as the cornerstone of a luxurious cocktail, this rum delivers a sensory journey marked by authenticity and passion.

For lovers of spirit history, craftsmanship, and innovation, the Hampden LFCH 2011 9 Years Old by Velier is a captivating showcase of what happens when tropical maturation meets Italian passion for spirit excellence. This extraordinary single cask release elegantly bridges the worlds of traditional Jamaican rum production and modern spirit connoisseurship.