Caroni 17 Year Old - Trinidad Extra Strong Rum - Distilled in 1998 - Velier - 70cl - 55% Vol

Rum Caroni 15 years Velier Extra Strong 110% Proof (1998-2015)

Presentation of the Caroni Distillery (Trinidad) - The Port Ellen of Rum

Caroni is a Trinidadian distillery renowned for its inimitable style of "Heavy Rum." Founded in 1923, the distillery closed its doors in 2003 (by government decision). This rum comes from the 1998 vintage, making it one of the last casks produced before the distillery ceased operations, thus giving it historical value and great rarity.

The Bottler: Velier and the "Extra Strong" Series

This bottling was carried out by the Italian company Velier, under the direction of Luca Gargano, who played a key role in discovering and marketing Caroni's remaining stocks. The "Extra Strong 110% Proof" designation means it is bottled at 55% ABV. The bottle features a label design inspired by the 1940 originals, commemorating the golden age of Trinidadian rum.

Cuvée Details: Distilled in 1998, Aged 17 Years

This rum was distilled in February 1998 and spent fifteen years aging in the extreme conditions of Trinidad (until September 2015), then it was bottled in Scotland in November 2015. This long tropical aging resulted in an astonishing "Angel's Share" (loss due to evaporation) of 80% of the initial volume, a testament to the exceptional concentration of this rum.

Tasting Notes: "Heavy Rum" at its Peak

The Caroni 17 Year Old 1998, with its extended aging and high alcohol content, is a quintessence of the "Heavy Trinidad Rum" style:

• Colour: Very dark amber, mahogany.
• Nose: Deep and complex. Notes of tar, petroleum and solvent are present but integrated, giving way to aromas of very ripe and candied exotic fruits, dark chocolate, roasted coffee, tobacco and warm spices (cinnamon, clove).
• Palate: Powerful, intense, and incredibly rich. The alcohol is perfectly integrated despite its high percentage. The industrial flavors are enhanced by notes of molasses, dried fruit, precious wood, and a hint of salt.
• Finish: Exceptionally long, lingering on tar, leather, spices and bitter cocoa.

Bottle Condition and Rarity

This Caroni is a centerpiece for any collection:

• Rarity: From one of the last vintages of the distillery which closed in 2003.
• Format: 70 cl.
• Degree: 55% vol. (Full Proof).
• Overall condition: Perfect condition.
• Packaging: Bottle protected by a cellophane film, guaranteeing the impeccable condition of the label.

Tasting Tips

This rum is a tasting experience in itself. It should be enjoyed neat, at room temperature. It is essential to let it breathe for a long time in a tulip glass (at least 30 minutes, or even longer) so that it reveals its full complexity. Adding a few drops of water (very sparingly) may, for some palates, help to further open up its bouquet.