LA BONNE INTENTION LBI 1998 9 YEARS OLD 55,6% VELIER

The release of the La Bonne Intention LBI 1998 proudly showcases a distinctive experience that blends history, rarity, and exceptional craftsmanship into one exquisite bottle. This blend has been aged gracefully for 9 years and presents a bold strength of 55.6%, delivering a potent and memorable taste profile. Only 274 bottles have been released, making this an exceptional collector’s item or a significant choice for those with a passion for unique spirits.

Originating from the esteemed Uitvlugt Distillery in Guyana, this rum reflects the aesthetics of the craftsmanship prevalent in the South American rum culture. Uitvlugt, meaning "escape" in Dutch, refers to the pivotal role this distillery historically played as one of the most influential producers in the area before it ceased operations in the late 20th century. Although it no longer operates, rums produced under its guise are highly valued for their classic and exceptional qualities.

The La Bonne Intention (LBI) is a nod to one of the sugar estates near the Uitvlugt Distillery, embedding the spirit with historical narrative and ties to its geographical roots. Crafted from molasses, using a four-column Savalle still, this production method is crucial in defining its unique character and profile. Savalle stills are known for their ability to produce a range of aromatic congeners, allowing for the creation of complex and flavorful spirits.

The tropical aging of this rum in Guyana’s humid climate has accelerated its maturation process, intensifying the interactions between the oak barrels and the rum. This results in a richer and denser flavor profile, distinct from the patterns typically observed in temperate climates, offering layers of depth with each sip.

Its bottler, Velier, is renowned not just for selecting top-tier spirits, but also for their stewardship and transparency in rum aging and bottling processes. Founded by Luca Gargano, Velier is synonymous with an uncompromising mission to showcase pure, unaltered spirits. Velier’s bottlings are often celebrated for their historical significance and closeness to traditional methods of distillation and aging.

Bottled at a robust 70 cl size, the rum not only gratifies the palate but also serves as a remarkable exhibit of the intersection between heritage and quality. Its assertive flavor, accentuated by the natural elements of Guyanese soil and climate, delivers a rich, earthy base accentuated with vivacious toasty and sweet notes, making every sip both expansive and satisfying.

Collectively, the La Bonne Intention LBI 1998 represents a noteworthy chapter in the anthology of Caribbean spirits, offering rum enthusiasts and collectors a rare glimpse into the venerated history of Guyanese rum through the lens of one of the world's most distinguished bottlers, Velier. As such, it holds appeal not only as a beverage of choice for discerning palates but also as a significant artifact representing the synergistic bond between land, spirit, and tradition.