Caroni 1996 Velier

Description

Caroni 1996 Velier 21 Year Old 100 Imperial Proof: A Rare Trinidad Treasure

The Caroni 1996 Velier 21 Year Old 100 Imperial Proof is a rare and highly sought-after rum that epitomizes the legendary status of the Caroni distillery. Distilled in 1996 and aged for 21 years in Trinidad, Caroni 21 rum showcases the rich and complex flavors that have made Caroni a revered name among rum enthusiasts. Bottled in 2017 by Velier at a robust 57.18% ABV, this edition is a true testament to the craftsmanship and heritage of Trinidadian rum.

Caroni 21 Year: The Legacy of Caroni Distillery

The Caroni distillery was established in 1918, although some records suggest distilling operations may have begun earlier in the 20th century. Originally part of the Tate & Lyle firm from 1936, Caroni played a crucial role in the British Navy rations, contributing its famous high-ester “Heavy” rums to the signature blend. However, with the decline of the Trinidadian sugar industry, the distillery faced challenges, eventually becoming fully nationalized in 1975. Despite being self-sufficient in molasses, Caroni struggled financially and was closed permanently in 2003.

Velier’s Acquisition of Caroni Stock

In 2005, Italian distributor Velier, led by CEO Luca Gargano, acquired a significant share of the remaining Caroni stock after discovering the boarded-up distillery during a visit to Trinidad. This acquisition marked the beginning of Caroni’s rise to legendary status in the rum world. The 1996 Velier 21 Year Old 100 Imperial Proof is a prime example of the exceptional quality that Caroni rums have come to represent.

Tasting Notes

Aroma

The Caroni 21 Year greets the nose with a complex bouquet of tar, rubber, and tropical fruits, including dried oranges and black cherries. These robust aromas are complemented by notes of vanilla, leather, and tobacco, creating a rich and intriguing scent profile.

Palate

On the palate, Caroni 21 delivers an oily texture that coats the mouth, revealing layers of tar, vanilla, oak, dried fruit, leather, and spice. The full-bodied nature of the rum ensures a satisfying and complex taste experience, with a harmonious balance of sweet and savory elements.

Finish

The finish is long and lingering, with a pleasing sweetness that mingles with wood, licorice, tar, and menthol. Additional notes of oak, leather, rubber, tobacco, and roasted flavors contribute to a powerful and satisfying conclusion that leaves a lasting impression.

Unique Characteristics of Caroni 1996 Velier 21 Year Old

What Makes This Rum Special?

The Caroni 1996 Velier 21 Year Old is unique for several reasons. Distilled from local Trinidad molasses and aged for 21 years in the tropical climate of Trinidad and Tobago, Caroni 21 rum underwent an 86% loss to the angels’ share, resulting in an intensely concentrated flavor profile. The limited release of only 500 bottles, coupled with its 100 Imperial Proof strength, makes it a rare and highly coveted addition to any rum collection.

FAQs About Caroni 21 100 Imperial Proof

What does the Caroni 1996 Trinidad Rum smell like?

The aroma is a complex mix of tar, rubber, tropical fruits (such as dried oranges and black cherries), vanilla, leather, and tobacco, creating a rich and intriguing scent.

What flavors can I expect from this rum?

Expect an oily texture with flavors of tar, vanilla, oak, dried fruit, leather, and spice. The rum is rich and full-bodied, offering a well-balanced and complex taste experience.

How long does the finish last?

The finish is long and lingering, with notes of sweetness, wood, licorice, tar, menthol, oak, leather, rubber, tobacco, and roasted flavors.

Can you tell me more about the Caroni distillery?

Caroni distillery was established in 1918 in Trinidad. It was known for producing heavy rums with high ester content, crucial to the British Navy rations. The distillery closed in 2003, but Velier acquired much of its remaining stock in 2005, leading to the release of these exceptional rums.

How many bottles of Caroni 1996 Trinidad Rum were released?

This limited edition rum was released with only 500 bottles, making it an extremely rare and sought-after rum.

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