CARONI 1996 66,1% VELIER ROOPNARINE 'ROOP' TOOLSIE - EMPLOYEES 5TH RELEASE | VSGB 10 CL

In the realm of rare and distinguished rums, the Caroni 1996 66.1% Velier Roopnarine 'Roop' Toolsie - Employees 5th Release, labeled VSGB in a 10 cl bottle, stands as a testament to the lost art of Trinidadian rum production. This exceptional spirit commemorates both the historic Caroni Distillery and the intense, varied profiles for which Caroni rums are renowned.

Distillery Overview

Caroni Distillery, originally established in 1918 in Trinidad and Tobago, was known for producing heavy, flavorful rums through their column stills. Utilizing molasses as its foundation, the distillery’s rums are lauded for their characteristically bold and smoky flavors, a direct result of their unique production methods which included aging in the tropical climate of the Caribbean. This environment accelerates the aging process, intensifying the flavors and colors of the rum due to higher rates of evaporation and interaction with the wooden casks. Unfortunately, the distillery ceased operations in 2003, making every Caroni release increasingly valuable and sought-after by collectors and connoisseurs.

Velier – The Bottler’s Story

As the bottler of this exquisite rum, Velier SpA, headquartered in Genoa, Italy, is renowned for its meticulous selection of high-quality, often rare spirits. Founded in 1947 and led by Luca Gargano since 1983, Velier is celebrated for its contribution to the rum enthusiasts’ world through high-proof, non-filtered releases that aim to express the pure essence of the distillery's original character. Gargano's passion for preserving and showcasing traditional rum-making processes has placed Velier at the forefront of the spirits industry, specializing in noteworthy and historic releases like this Caroni 1996 vintage.

Bottling Details and Production

This particular release, distilled in 1996 and bottled in 2021, is part of Velier’s tribute to the former employees of Caroni, in this instance honoring Roopnarine 'Roop' Toolsie. This 25-year-old rum, confined under the VSGB (Velier Special Good Bottle) label in a 10 cl (centiliter) bottle, captured in its essence, not just the spirit of the rum, but also the spirit of significant figureheads behind its production. Bottled at an impressive strength of 66.1%, the rum's robust profile is a direct consequence of both its proof and the intense tropical aging process it underwent in Trinidad’s humid, searing climate.

Sensory Profile

Expect a bold, intricate mosaic of aromas and flavors from this rum. Typically, Caroni’s expressions feature deep notes of tar, leather, tobacco, dried fruits, and spices, enriched by the oaky nuances imparted through decades of maturation in charred barrels. The high alcohol content should be approached with respect, promising a powerful, enveloping sensatory experience.

Exclusivity and Collectibility

With only 1,038 bottles released, this Caroni 1996 vintage is not just a consumable but a collector's piece. Each bottle encapsulates a fragment of Trinidad's distilling history, especially given Caroni’s closure. Collectors and enthusiasts often pursue these limited editions for their rarity and historical significance, in addition to their unique taste profiles.

Conclusion

The Caroni 1996 66.1% Velier Roopnarine 'Roop' Toolsie - Employees 5th Release is more than just a rum; it is a piece of Caribbean heritage brought forth into the present by Velier’s passionate dedication to rum curation. This release not only serves as a homage to the skilled individuals behind Caroni's storied past but also stands as a beacon of the craft and adventure imbued in every bottle of Caroni produced. For the rum aficionado, this embodiment of history, craft, and tradition is a precious addition to any collection, offering both a link to the past and a profound tasting experience.