Velier Caroni 3rd Employees Vijay „Vijay“ Ranmarine 1996

Part of Velier's series dedicated to former Caroni workers, this 1996 release honours Vijay Ranmarine and comes from the Trinidad distillery that closed in 2003 before Velier rescued its forgotten casks. Tropically aged 24 years at full proof and bottled at 64.5%, it is a deep, powerful expression of the heavy marque.

Distilled from molasses and matured in ex-bourbon oak under Caribbean heat, it shows the classic dirty markers wrapped in unusual richness. Tar, rubber and dark wood lead, but extended ageing layers in roasted chocolate, vanilla and caramel, with a hint of tropical fruit underneath. Tobacco, leather and barrel notes carry a long finish. It needs real patience in the glass, opening only after extended aeration once the high strength settles, but the reward is depth and balance rather than sheer aggression. Bottled unsweetened, it is a benchmark Caroni for drinkers who already love the style and are willing to give it time.