Distilia Caroni Lion’s Whisky (10th Anniversary Edition) Heavy Rum 1998

Caroni, the Trinidad distillery that closed in 2003, is the most collectible name in rum, and this Distilia bottling marks a tenth anniversary with a single cask of the prized heavy style. Distilled in 1998, aged twenty four years and offered at a serious 61.6%, it is a limited release from molasses matured in ex-bourbon oak.

What sets it apart is the balance: the industrial Caroni signature of tar and diesel is all there, but layered with a cola candy sweetness, tropical fruit, honey and orange peel that lend an unexpectedly polished side. The palate brings burnt sugar, mint, firm tannins and more tropical fruit, the finish dirty and sweet at once. Unsweetened and at full strength, it keeps the heavy funk while adding a refined, fruity counterpoint, a powerful pour for patient sipping.