HAMPDEN 2017 5 YEARS OLD 64,6% HABITATION VELIER - SINGLE CASK #155 PM SPIRITS

In the sphere of exceptional spirits, rum holds a special place with its vibrant variety and rich history, and among those, the Hampden 2017 5 Years Old 64.6% Habitation Velier stands out as a striking representation of both Jamaican flair and exquisite European bottling craftsmanship. Bottled by the esteemed Velier, this single cask release underscores the best aspects of both producer and bottler, offering aficionados an unfiltered glimpse into the world of high-ester rums.

Hampden Estate, the distillery responsible for this remarkable rum, has been an integral part of Jamaica's rum heritage for over 250 years. Located in the lush, tropical parish of Trelawny, their methods have remained largely unchanged since the 18th century, a testament to the tradition and care put into every batch. Hampden is renowned internationally for its heavy, flavorful, and distinctly high-ester rums, a signature that is zealously preserved and showcased across their range.

Released in 2023, the Hampden 2017 5 Years Old, aged exclusively in the tropical climate of Jamaica, presents a remarkable acceleration of the aging process due to the intense heat and humidity typical of the region. This environmental impact is crucial, imbuing the rum with a depth and complexity rarely achieved in such a short aging period. The molasses-based rum is distilled in traditional pot stills, which are known for their ability to enhance the rich and aromatic qualities of the distillate.

The bottle contains a potent 64.6% ABV spirit, a feature that intensifies its flavors and aromas. It is critical to note that such a high alcohol level also promotes a fuller body and richer texture, making every sip a robust and engaging experience. This particular batch was limited to just 250 bottles, making it a rare gem for collectors and enthusiasts alike.

The rum was matured in an ex-bourbon cask, number 155, which contributes subtle whispers of vanilla, smoke, and toast to the naturally fruity and funky profile typical of Hampden's distillate. The interaction between the American oak and the volatile Jamaican rum creates a lively and invigorating blend of flavors, from tropical fruits and spices to deeper, earthier undertones.

Bottled by Velier, a company founded in 1947 in Genoa, Italy, by Casimir Chaix, the spirit benefits from the bottler's philosophy of minimal intervention and respect for raw materials and their origins. Velier has gained a formidable reputation in the spirits world under the guidance of Luca Gargano, who since the 1980s has driven the company with a passionate commitment to authenticity and quality. His approach, often described as visionary, includes bottling unadulterated, unfiltered expressions that best convey the character of the raw spirits and their craftsmanship.

Packaged in a 75 cl bottle, the Hampden 2017 5 Years Old serves as a bold statement within the Habitation Velier lineup, a collection exclusively constituted of high-proof, pot still rums that celebrate the terroir and traditional distillation methods of their origins. This particular expression, intense and raw, presents the enthusiast with an unparallel experience that showcases the spirited fusion of Jamaican vigor and Italian finesse.

In conclusion, the Hampden 2017 5 Years Old 64.6% Habitation Velier is not just a bottle of rum but a narrative of heritage, art, and passionate craftsmanship. Its limited availability, inherent strength, and distinctive profile make it a coveted item for those who cherish not only the fine sensory pleasures but also the stories and traditions encapsulated within each drop. For the collector or the connoisseur, acquiring this rum is seizing a piece of history—rich, undiluted, and exuberantly alive.