Great House Distillery 13 Years Old The Duchess Cask 6 High Ester Jamaican Rum 66.9% 2007

Professional reviews

BOW (90)

Hampden 13 Years Old The Duchess Cask 6: A High Ester Jamaican Rum Delight

Jamaican rum enthusiasts were treated to a special release in 2021 by renowned Dutch premium independent bottler, The Duchess. The Hampden 13 Years Old, part of The Duchess' Tropical Reef Fish Series, is a high ester Jamaican rum that showcases the exceptional craftsmanship and flavor profile for which Hampden Estate is renowned. Distilled in 2007 and bottled at a robust 66.9% ABV, this limited edition release is a true gem for rum connoisseurs seeking a unique and memorable drinking experience.

The Legacy of Hampden Estate:
Hampden Estate, located in the lush Trelawny Parish of Jamaica, has a rich history that dates back to the 18th century. The distillery is celebrated for its traditional pot still production methods, which contribute to the high ester content and distinctive flavor profile of its rums. With a reputation for producing some of the finest Jamaican rums in the world, Hampden is highly regarded by rum enthusiasts and industry experts alike.

The Maturation Process:
After distillation at the renowned Hampden Estate, this particular expression of rum was matured for a remarkable 13 years in a single cask. The exact type of cask used has not been disclosed, but The Duchess is known for its careful selection of high-quality barrels that enhance the rum's unique characteristics. This extended maturation period allowed the flavors to evolve and develop, resulting in a complex and robust spirit.

Tasting Notes:
The Hampden 13 Years Old opens with an inviting aroma of tropical fruits, rich molasses, and a subtle hint of oak. On the palate, the rum delivers a symphony of flavors. Notes of ripe banana and pineapple dance alongside zesty citrus and the distinctive funkiness characteristic of high ester rums. The richness of dark chocolate and caramel emerges, balancing the tropical fruit sweetness. Despite its high ABV, the rum remains surprisingly smooth, with the alcohol adding depth and intensity without overpowering the nuanced flavors. The finish is long and satisfying, leaving behind a warm embrace of spices and a lingering tropical fruit sweetness.

The Prohibition on Using the Hampden Name:
Independent bottlers are prohibited from using the name "Hampden" on their labels due to trademark restrictions. Instead, the label of The Duchess Hampden 13 Years Old refers to the rum being distilled at the "Great House Distillery," a subtle nod to its origin at the esteemed Hampden Estate.

Limited Availability and Collectibility:
As with all releases from The Duchess, the Hampden 13 Years Old is produced in limited quantities, making it highly coveted among rum enthusiasts and collectors. Each bottle is individually numbered and presented in an elegant packaging that reflects the attention to detail and craftsmanship of both the rum and the bottler.

Conclusion:
The Hampden 13 Years Old The Duchess Cask 6 is a testament to the unparalleled quality and flavor profile of Hampden Estate's high ester Jamaican rums. This limited edition release, part of The Duchess' Tropical Reef Fish Series, offers an extraordinary drinking experience for rum aficionados. With its complexity, depth, and tantalizing array of flavors, this rum showcases the artistry and expertise of both the distillery and the independent bottler. If you have the opportunity to savor this remarkable expression, prepare for a journey through the tropical paradise of Jamaican rum.

Serge Valentin (90)

We've tried cask #18 in March, it was splendid. Remember, the 'Great House' is either Buckingham Palace, or Hampden Distillery. What are the odds… Seriously, whenever a Distillery forbids the use of its lousy name, it just feels like they're not proud of their output. Come on, wrong path, openness and transparency are true modern values, this is not 2010. Colour: white wine. Nose: pure vinegar, snail butter, riesling, olive oil, carbon dust, diesel oil, new bicycle inner tube and glue for patch chambers. With water: leek juice, bisphenol, phthalates, glues. There. Mouth (neat): boringly excellent, with very high esters (like