CARONI 1985 20 YEARS OLD 62% VELIER - HEAVY TRINIDAD RUM

The Caroni 1985 20 Years Old 62% Velier - Heavy Trinidad Rum is a formidable spirit that not only captures the essence of traditional Trinidad rum making but also showcases the unique distilling heritage of its native land, Trinidad and Tobago. Distilled in 1985 at the renowned Caroni Distillery, this rum underwent an impressive twenty years of tropical aging which profoundly influenced its character and profile. The rum's robust flavor and historical significance make it a coveted item among connoisseurs.

Caroni Distillery, which operated from 1923 to 2002, was situated on the island of Trinidad and was known for producing rums with a distinctly heavy style, attributed to its use of rich molasses and a column still method of distillation. The distillery's close proximity to the equator subjected the aging spirits to intense heat and humidity, thereby accelerating the maturation process and concentrating the flavors. This particular vintage, the Caroni 1985, stands as a testament to the venerable institution's prowess in crafting deep, complex rums.

The Caroni 1985 20 Years Old was bottled by Velier, an esteemed Italian bottler known for its meticulous selection of high-quality rums and spirits. Founded in 1947 by Casimir Chaix in Genoa, Velier is celebrated for its high-proof, limited edition releases that are highly sought after in the spirits community. Under the leadership of Luca Gargano, Velier has gained a reputation for preserving the legacy of traditional rum styles like those of Caroni, often releasing rums that offer a pure, unadulterated taste of their origin.

This expression, bottled at an intense 62% ABV, is presented in a 70cl bottle and was released in a limited quantity of 1314 bottles, making it a rare treasure. The high alcohol content magnifies the intrinsic flavors of the rum, marked by notes of burnt caramel, smoked oak, and a balanced molasses sweetness, overlayed with a complexity that can only be achieved through prolonged aging in a tropical climate.

The Caroni 1985 is not just a rum; it is a slice of Caribbean history, offering rum enthusiasts a glimpse into the bygone era of one of Trinidad's most revered distilleries. Each sip reveals layers of craftsmanship and tradition, underscored by the deep, intense notes that characterize Caroni's storied rums. This bottle is particularly valuable to collectors and aficionados for both its taste and its rarity, capturing a moment in time when traditional methods ruled supreme in the rum industry.

In conclusion, the Caroni 1985 20 Years Old 62% Velier is a significant artifact from Trinidad and Tobago's rich rum heritage. Its robust profile, combined with the historical esteem of both Caroni Distillery and Velier, make it not only a testament to the craft of rum production but also a meaningful connection to the past, ideal for those who cherish spirit history or are in pursuit of the most extraordinary and expressive rums the world has to offer.