BEENLEIGH 2006 & 2015 59% VELIER | 2 BOTTLES

Beenleigh, as Australia’s oldest operating distillery, holds a revered position in the world of spirits, known especially for its rich, flavorful rums. Steeped in history, the distillery, which began its operation in the 1880s, has continued to captivate spirits enthusiasts with its dedication to traditional rum-making techniques. The Beenleigh 2006 & 2015 59% by Velier is an extraordinary showcase of the brand's commitment to craft and heritage, containing two distinct vintages that each tell a tale of the distillery’s artful approach to rum production.

The personage behind this release, Velier, is itself a storied name in the spirits industry. Founded in 1947 in Genoa, Italy, Velier is renowned for its finely curated selections of rum and its collaborations with distilleries around the world. Led by Luca Gargano since the 1980s, Velier's approach is characterized by a passion for pure expressions of distillery character and a commitment to high-quality, unadulterated bottlings. This partnership between Beenleigh and Velier encapsulates a meeting of two giants in the spirits world, promising something truly special for connoisseurs.

This exclusive bottling includes two bottles - one from the 2006 distillation and another from the 2015. This divergence in years allows enthusiasts to explore the effect of aging and variation in natural conditions over nearly a decade. Both expressions are testament to the timeless allure of Beenleigh's meticulous craftsmanship and the tropical climate's heavy influence on the aging process. The use of both pot and column stills in the production method offers a layered complexity, yielding rums with nuanced flavors.

The base material for these rums is **molasses**, a classic foundation that imparts a rich, deep flavor profile typical of superior quality rums. Molasses-based rums are renowned for their robustness and depth, featuring a palette of intricate flavors ranging from sweet tospicy notes. Each bottle in this set contains rum that has been bottled at a robust 59% strength, a choice that ensures the bold character and the unadulterated essence of the rum are maintained.

The aging of these rums in a tropical climate is a critical aspect of their development. Tropical aging accelerates the interaction between the wood and the spirit, intensifying the infusion of flavors from the barrels and hastening the mellowing of the rum. This results in rum that is extraordinarily rich and full-bodied, with a complexity that might take longer to develop under cooler conditions.

Upon tasting, one might find notes of dried fruits, oaky vanilla, and hints of toffee, complemented by the underlying robust character of the molasses. The high alcohol content of 59% ensures that each sip delivers a warm, full-mouth feel, followed by a long, satisfying finish. These bottles are not just drinks; they are a journey through time and tradition, reflecting the harsh yet rewarding Australian climate and the centuries-old craft of rum-making.

For collectors and spirit lovers, the Beenleigh 2006 & 2015 59% by Velier presents an exceptional opportunity to experience the historical and flavorful depths of Australian rum. These bottles are not only a testament to the artisanal skills of Beenleigh’s distillers but also showcase Velier’s expertise in recognizing and preserving extraordinary spirits. The resulting rum is as much an art form as it is a beverage, ideally suited for those seeking to expand their understanding and appreciation of fine rums across the globe.

In summary, the Beenleigh 2006 & 2015 59% bottles by Velier are not just spirits; they are storied artifacts of rum craft, offering a unique vantage into the power of collaboration, the influence of climate on aging, and the timeless appeal of molasses-based rum. For anyone passionate about exploring nuanced, robust, and richly flavored rums, this set represents a pinnacle of pursuit, perfect for both seasoned aficionados and curious newcomers alike.