Rum Nation Rare Rums – Caroni 1997-2018 21 År, 59,2%

Introduction

Rum Nation’s Caroni 1997-2018 represents one of the last remaining stocks from Trinidad’s iconic Caroni distillery, which closed its doors forever in 2003, making this 21-year-old expression both historically significant and increasingly scarce.

Production Method

• Raw materials: Molasses from Trinidad’s sugarcane plantations, once cultivated specifically for the Caroni distillery’s unique requirements
• Distillation process: Traditional column still distillation utilizing Caroni’s distinctive heavy, industrial approach that created its signature “diesel” character
• Maturation: Aged for 21 years in ex-bourbon oak casks, spending much of its life in the tropical climate of Trinidad before final maturation in Europe
• Special techniques: Part of Rum Nation’s Rare Rums series, bottled at cask strength (59.2%) without chill filtration to preserve its authentic character

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Heavy petroleum notes, tar, industrial oils, with underlying dark chocolate, tobacco leaf, and dried tropical fruits
• Palate: Intensely robust with black licorice, dark molasses, bitter espresso, charred oak, and hints of overripe banana and dark cherries
• Finish: Extremely long, warming and persistent with lingering notes of burnt caramel, smoky leather, petroleum, and bittersweet chocolate

Recommended Serving

• Serving temperature: Room temperature (18-20°C)
• Glass recommendation: Tulip-shaped nosing glass or small snifter to concentrate the aromas
• Serving ideas: Best enjoyed neat in small quantities; a few drops of water may help open up additional aromatic complexities
• Food pairings: Dark chocolate with 70%+ cocoa content, rich espresso-based desserts, or enjoyed on its own as a contemplative after-dinner experience

Product Specifications

• Alcohol content: 59.2% ABV (cask strength)
• Bottle size: 50cl
• Country/Region of origin: Trinidad (distillation), bottled in Italy by Rum Nation
• Certifications/Awards: Highly rated by rum critics including scoring 90+ points in multiple international spirits competitions

Summary

A Unique Tasting Experience

This Caroni 1997 represents one of the final remaining stocks from a distillery that has passed into rum legend, offering a taste experience that simply cannot be replicated today.

With each passing year, bottles from the closed Caroni distillery become increasingly difficult to find, making this 21-year expression a rapidly vanishing piece of rum history.

Endorsed by the world’s leading rum experts as a quintessential example of Trinidad’s traditional heavy rum style, it stands as a historical document in liquid form.

Recognition from Connoisseurs

Serious rum collectors worldwide actively seek Caroni expressions, particularly those with extended aging like this 21-year release, often considering them the crown jewels of their collections.

Enthusiasts who have committed to exploring Trinidad’s rum heritage invariably describe Caroni as an essential milestone in their journey of discovery.

Its distinctive profile has earned devoted followers who appreciate its uncompromising character, with many experts placing Caroni among the most characterful and complex rum profiles ever produced.

From Trinidad’s Lost Distillery to You

Rum Nation has meticulously selected this cask to share a genuine, unaltered glimpse into Trinidad’s rum heritage, preserving the authentic Caroni experience for today’s connoisseurs.

The rich storytelling element of this rum creates an immediate connection with those who appreciate how it represents not just a spirit, but the culmination of centuries of Caribbean rum-making tradition.

By enjoying this Caroni, you join a global community of rum aficionados who understand the significance of preserving and celebrating these final expressions from a distillery that can never produce again – secure your bottle while this fleeting opportunity remains.