The Duchess 1998 Caroni Trinidad 21-year-old rum is a highly sought-after bottle distilled in February 1998 at the Caroni distillery in Trinidad and bottled in March 2019. This limited edition release consists of only 245 bottles, each filled with a bold 64.1% ABV rum, showcasing the distillery's renowned heavy style. Crafted from molasses using a pot still, this expression has aged for 21 years, possibly spending some time maturing in Europe. The bottle features a new label from the "flowers" series by artist Hans Dillesse, adding an artistic touch to its presentation.
Established in 1918, the Caroni distillery was located in the heart of Trinidad's Caroni plains. Known for its distinctive heavy rum, Caroni operated its own sugar plant and originally used a cast-iron pot still, later replaced by a single column still. The distillery gained fame over the years but closed in 2004. Italian raconteur Luca Gargano discovered the derelict site a year later, unearthing a treasure trove of Caroni barrels, some of which were eventually bottled and released.
Upon pouring, The Duchess 1998 Caroni 21-year-old reveals a beautiful mahogany color, indicative of its age and maturity. The nose is intricate, offering a captivating blend of hydrocarbons, burnt caramel, leather, menthol, and exotic cooked fruits like banana, orange, and peppery mango. On the palate, it delivers intense flavors of licorice, rubber, burnt caramel, smokiness, and butter, accompanied by woody bitterness, roasted coffee, and subtle vanilla. The well-integrated alcohol content provides a smooth yet powerful tasting experience.
While it's priced at around €199, this bold and intense rum appeals to enthusiasts who appreciate robust Caroni expressions. Some might find the smoky and woody notes a bit intense, but others will revel in the depth and complexity it offers. Overall, this expression is recommended for those who enjoy full-bodied, masculine rums. Reviewers have noted a preference for more fruity notes in rum but still found the tasting experience enjoyable, giving it a rating of 86/100.
This rum is a rare 21-year-old expression from the now-closed Caroni distillery, known for its distinctive heavy style. It's part of a limited release of only 245 bottles, bottled at a bold 64.1% ABV.
Expect a complex profile with notes of hydrocarbons, burnt caramel, leather, menthol, exotic cooked fruits, licorice, rubber, smoky wood, butter, woody bitterness, roasted coffee, and subtle vanilla.
The bottle features a label from the "flowers" series by artist Hans Dillesse, adding an artistic and unique touch to its presentation.
The Duchess 1998 Caroni Trinidad 21yo is a rare gem that showcases the unique and heavy style of the Caroni distillery. Its complex nose and intense palate offer a journey through rich flavors and smoky undertones, balanced with subtle sweetness and exotic fruit notes. While it might not be everyone's cup of tea, it's a must-try for rum enthusiasts who appreciate a full-bodied and masculine profile. A delightful and intriguing experience, earning it a solid place in the world of premium rums.
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