Velier Caroni Heavy Rum (Juuls Vin & Spritis) HTR 2000

A Velier Caroni from the 2000 vintage, single cask, bottled for Juuls at 15 years and carrying the Heavy mark, HTR. Velier, the Italian house behind the rescue of Caroni's casks after the distillery closed in 2003, defined how these full proof, tropically aged bottlings are made and prized.

This is Caroni at its dirtiest. The nose throws glue, acetone, mint and tar with a few foul, overripe fruits, the palate is bitter, intense and menthol driven, and the finish stays tarry, warm and rubbery, all at a ferocious 70.2%. Matured in ex-bourbon oak and bottled unsweetened, it demands real airtime before the aromas settle, and even then it is uncompromising. A reference grade industrial Caroni for those who want the style at full force, not a gentle introduction.