HAMPDEN OWH 2012 8 YEARS OLD 60,4% VELIER - RED BILLED STREAMERTAIL SINGLE CASK #660 | STEFAN & EGON

Introducing an exceptional limited edition rum, the "Hampden OWH 2012 8 Years Old 60.4% Velier - Red Billed Streamertail Single Cask #660 | Stefan & Egon," this spirit stands as a pinnacle of craftsmanship and a testament to the rich heritage of Jamaican rum. Distilled by the renowned Hampden distillery, and meticulously selected and bottled by the prestigious bottler Velier, this rum offers a rare and intense experience for connoisseurs and enthusiasts alike.

Hampden Distillery is revered for its commitment to traditional distillation methods, and its rum is celebrated globally for its bold, robust, and complex flavors. Located in the Trelawny Parish, a region famous for its high-ester rums, Hampden employs time-honored techniques and natural, indigenous ingredients, making it a bastion of authentic Jamaican rum production. The distillery, with a history dating back to the 1750s, maintains its reputation through meticulous control over every step of the production process, from molasses selection to distillation and aging.

This particular expression, the Hampden OWH 2012, was distilled using single retort pot stills, a method known for producing very flavorful and aromatic spirits. The mark 'OWH' indicates a specific ester range, showcasing a lighter, albeit deeply flavorful profile compared to some of Hampden's higher-ester expressions. Distilled in 2012, this rum was aged for 8 years in cask #660 under the tropical climate of Jamaica, which accelerates the maturation process, giving the rum characteristics and a depth of flavor that would take much longer to develop under cooler conditions.

Velier, the illustrious bottler based in Italy, is known for its discerning cask selections and partnerships with top distilleries around the world. Led by the visionary Luca Gargano, whose influence in the rum world is monumental, Velier has a knack for identifying and nurturing truly unique spirits. Bottling this single cask as part of a collaboration named "Stefan & Egon," Velier continues its tradition of bringing exceptional, often rare spirits to the forefront of the global spirits community.

The "Red Billed Streamertail," referenced in the name, pays homage to the vibrant bird native to Jamaica, synonymous with the beauty and exuberance of the island — much like the rum itself. This single cask, numbered #660, yielded just 250 bottles, making it a highly exclusive offering.

At a robust 60.4% alcohol by volume, this rum encapsulates the full intensity of its flavors and aromas. It's a bold expression, likely dominated by notes of tropical fruit, spice, and perhaps hints of tobacco or leather, all nestled within a savory, umami-rich undertone typical of Hampden's unique rum profile.

Perfect for collectors and aficionados, the Hampden OWH 2012 8 Years Old presents not just a drinking experience, but a journey through the craft and history of Jamaican rum. Whether enjoyed neat, with a splash of water, or as a powerful base in sophisticated cocktails, this rum is a testament to the artform that is distilling and the exceptional results of climate and care converging in liquid form.

In summary, the Hampden OWH 2012 from Velier, bottled as a single cask release, offers an unparalleled insight into the heritage and continuing innovation of Jamaican rum. Each sip resonates with the passion and expertise infused at every step of its creation, making it a truly stand-out spirit that honors the legacy of both Hampden and Velier in the world of fine spirits.