Velier Caroni 33th Release High Proof Heavy Rum HTR 1998

Velier's Caroni 33rd Release High Proof Heavy Rum 1998 is another bottling from the legendary closed Trinidad distillery. Caroni ceased production in 2003, and Velier's tropically aged releases of its rescued casks created the cult around its heavy rum. This Heavy mark, drawn from a column still, is 16 years old.

Matured at origin in ex-bourbon oak and bottled at 55%, it shows the classic Caroni dirt, tar, rubber and smoky wood, but with an unusual sense of harmony: caramel sweetness, dried fruit, vanilla and spice round out the industrial notes, and the lower strength for the style makes it remarkably drinkable, almost an easy sipper by Caroni standards. The finish is long and warm with tar and roasted wood. For drinkers who love the dirty signature but want balance and approachability, this 1998 is a well poised example of the heavy style.