The MaltCask x Drunkard | Caroni 1998 23YO | 50.8%
The Karuizawa of the Rum World | A Rare Piece of Trinidad & Tobago’s Legendary History
About the Rum
This Caroni 1998 23YO is a rare single cask rum, a collaboration between The MaltCask and Drunkard. Distilled in 1998 and matured for 23 years, it is bottled at 50.8% cask strength, capturing the essence of Heavy Rum with its bold flavors and complex profile.
Caroni Distillery, often referred to as the "Karuizawa of the Rum World," carries a story of legend. Established in 1918 in Trinidad, it was renowned for producing rich, heavy rums for the British Royal Navy. However, in 2001, the local government ceased sugarcane cultivation, leading to the distillery’s closure in 2002. Since then, Caroni’s remaining stock has become a treasure for rum enthusiasts and collectors worldwide.
This 1998 vintage Caroni preserves the distillery’s signature heavy style, offering intense aromas and a multi-layered palate. It’s a sensory journey through the rich heritage of Trinidad.
Tasting Notes
🌿 Nose:
Rich and layered. Cane sugar, caramel, and baked cake dominate, followed by cocoa, tobacco, and coconut oil. A hint of mint adds freshness, alongside industrial notes of glue and salad dressing. With water, it softens into white wine aromas, vanilla, and American oak.
🍫 Palate:
Bold cocoa and mocha flavors upfront, balanced by refreshing mint, spices, and tannins. Subtle tea-like bitterness and fruity acidity round it out. Adding water reveals menthol mints and tobacco, enhancing its complexity and depth.
Caroni’s Legacy
A History That Can’t Be Replicated
Founded in 1918, Caroni was a key rum producer in Trinidad, supplying heavy rums to the British Royal Navy. The distillery closed in 2002 after the government halted sugarcane farming, leaving behind a treasure trove of rare stock. This made Caroni a legendary name in the spirits world, often compared to Japan’s iconic Karuizawa whisky distillery.
The Iconic Heavy Rum Style
Caroni’s heavy rums, distilled from molasses using column stills, are known for their bold flavors. Signature notes of caramel, tobacco, and industrial character make them a favorite among connoisseurs. This 1998 vintage, aged for 23 years, is a perfect representation of Caroni’s timeless style—a truly irreplaceable gem.
FAQ
1. Why is Caroni called the "Karuizawa of the Rum World"?
Caroni’s closure in 2002 made its rums extremely rare and highly collectible. Its heavy style and high-quality spirit are often compared to the legendary Karuizawa distillery in Japan, earning it the nickname.
2. Who is Caroni 1998 23YO ideal for?
This rum is perfect for fans of Heavy Rums, bold flavors, and complex profiles. Whether sipped neat or with a drop of water, it reveals its captivating aromas and depth, making it a top choice for rum enthusiasts and collectors alike.
