Velier Caroni Heavy Rum (Velier) HTR 2000

This is Velier Caroni at its most uncompromising. Luca Gargano's house, the most prestigious name in collectible rum, bottled this Heavy 2000 at a colossal 69.6 percent, full proof and tropically aged in the Velier tradition. Caroni closed in 2003, and the 2000 vintage is among the most sought, drawn here as a single cask of genuine HTR distillate.

Made from molasses and matured in ex-bourbon oak in Caribbean heat, it carries the dense, oily power the heavy marks are prized for. Oak, tropical fruit, citrus and pepper lead the nose, while the palate brings oak, caramelised sugar, rubber and menthol, the alcohol immense but unmistakably Caroni. The classic 2000 character comes through with plenty of force and an incredibly long finish. A demanding, full-throttle bottling that wants water and patience, a serious pour for those who already love the distillery and want it at maximum intensity.