Worthy Park 12 yo (2006/2018), Rum Nation – Rare Rums, 58%

Introduction

Worthy Park Estate, founded in 1670, is one of Jamaica’s oldest sugar estates and has been producing exceptional pot still rums that embody the distinctive “Jamaican funk” that rum connoisseurs around the world celebrate.

Production Method

• Raw materials: Pure sugar cane molasses from Worthy Park Estate’s own plantations in central Jamaica, where rich soil and perfect climate create ideal conditions for sugar cane cultivation.
• Distillation process: Traditional copper pot still distillation using Worthy Park’s distinctive double retort pot still system, which helps create the characteristic ester-rich profile.
• Maturation: Aged for a full 12 years in ex-bourbon oak casks in the tropical Jamaican climate, promoting accelerated maturation and deep interaction with the wood.
• Special techniques: Long fermentation periods with proprietary yeast strains allowing for the development of high ester counts that create Worthy Park’s signature funk and complexity.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Powerful and vibrant with overripe bananas, pineapple, mango, and the distinctive Worthy Park funky notes. Hints of vanilla, molasses, oak, and baking spices emerge as the rum opens up.
• Palate: Full-bodied and intense with tropical fruit explosion, caramelized sugar, dark chocolate, roasted coffee beans, and spicy oak. The high ABV delivers a robust mouthfeel with notes of leather, tobacco, and hint of balsamic.
• Finish: Long, warm, and complex with lingering notes of dried fruits, spices, oak tannins, and that unmistakable Jamaican funk that slowly fades, leaving traces of dark chocolate and tropical fruit.

Recommended Serving

• Serving temperature: Room temperature (18-21°C) to fully appreciate its complex character.
• Glass recommendation: Tulip-shaped nosing glass or a Glencairn glass to concentrate the aromas.
• Serving ideas: Best enjoyed neat or with a few drops of water to open up the flavors. The high ABV can benefit from a short rest in the glass before tasting.
• Food pairings: Dark chocolate, aged cheeses, grilled tropical fruits, or traditional Jamaican jerk chicken.

Product Specifications

• Alcohol content: 58% ABV
• Bottle size: 70cl
• Country/Region of origin: Jamaica, Lluidas Vale, St. Catherine
• Certifications/Awards: Selected for Rum Nation’s prestigious Rare Rums collection, recognizing its exceptional quality and limited availability.

Summary

A Unique Tasting Experience

This Worthy Park 12 Year Old represents one of Jamaica’s most distinctive rum styles, showcasing the perfect balance between raw pot still intensity and the elegance that comes with extended tropical aging.

With only a limited number of bottles released in 2018, this expression has quickly become a sought-after collector’s item that continues to appreciate in value among rum enthusiasts.

Endorsed by leading rum experts and aficionados as a benchmark for premium Jamaican rum, this bottling stands as a testament to both Worthy Park’s heritage and Rum Nation’s expertise in selecting exceptional spirits.

Recognition from Connoisseurs

The passionate rum community has embraced this expression for its authentic representation of Jamaican rum tradition, with many collectors considering the Rum Nation Rare Rums series essential additions to any serious collection.

By choosing this bottle, you’re joining an exclusive circle of discerning rum enthusiasts who value authentic distillery character and traditional production methods over mass production.

The growing appreciation for high-ester Jamaican rums has elevated bottles like this to cult status, with tasting groups and rum festivals regularly featuring them as benchmark examples of the style.

From Worthy Park to You

Rum Nation has traveled to the heartland of Jamaica, carefully selecting this exceptional cask to share the pure essence of Worthy Park’s craftsmanship directly with rum lovers who appreciate authenticity and heritage.

The warm, vibrant character of this rum reflects the sunny, welcoming culture of Jamaica itself, creating an instant connection to the island’s rich traditions with every sip.

Whether you’re already part of the “funk lovers” community or looking to explore the heights of traditional Jamaican rum, this bottle offers a direct connection to one of rum’s most celebrated terroirs and an opportunity to experience a true classic.