Great House Distillery The Duchess 13 Years Old Cask 18 High Ester Jamaican Rum 66.1% 2007

Distillery	Hampden Estate Distillery
Bottler	The Duchess
Serie	TROPICAL REEF FISH SERIES
Bottled for
Distilled date	2007
Bottling date	2021
Country	Jamaica
Region	Hampden Estate, Trelawny
Age	13
Cask Type	Bourbon
Cask Number	13
Alcohol percentage	66.1
Volume	0,70
Condition	Perfect
Label	Perfect
Stock	1

Professional reviews

Serge Valentin (91)

The name Great House, a little bird told me, suggests this would be Hmpdn. In no way could this be bad news, Hmpdn clearly being the Rrdbg of rum. Colour: light gold. Nose: high marque, super-long fermentation, carbon paper, brake-pad dust, varnish and vinegar, glue, new Chinese plastics and just green and black olives. With water: rotting things and more new plastics, varnishes, olives and pickled wakame. Mouth (neat): massive. Lemons carbon tar gherkins cucumbers and olives. With water: these whacky rotting fruits. Like rotten oranges, fermenting plums and all that. And more nasty oily plastics yet. Finish: very long, gherkins-dominated, almost a little sadistic. Concentrated lime juice and rotten bananas in the aftertaste. Comments: not needed, we'll all get a break.

BOW (91)

Hampden 13 Years Old Cask 18: A Captivating Journey of High-Ester Jamaican Rum by The Duchess

The Duchess, a renowned Dutch premium independent bottler, has once again delighted rum enthusiasts with their exceptional release - the Hampden 13 Years Old Cask 18. This limited edition high-ester Jamaican rum, part of The Duchess' coveted Tropical Reef Fish Series, is a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of Hampden Estate. Bottled at a cask strength of 66.1% ABV and distilled in 2007, this remarkable expression showcases the distinct flavors and character that have made Hampden renowned in the world of rum. The Duchess pays homage to this historic distillery by discreetly referencing it as the "Great House Distillery" on the label, adhering to the regulations that prohibit independent bottlers from directly using the Hampden name.

The Legendary Hampden Estate:
Situated amidst the lush landscapes of Jamaica, Hampden Estate holds a cherished place in the history of rum production. With a legacy dating back centuries, the distillery is celebrated for its traditional pot still distillation methods, producing rums known for their high ester content. The result is a spirit bursting with bold flavors, unparalleled complexity, and a distinct Jamaican "funk" that has become synonymous with the Hampden name.

The Tropical Reef Fish Series:
The Duchess' Tropical Reef Fish Series takes inspiration from the vibrant and diverse marine life found in the Caribbean's pristine waters. Each release in this series is carefully selected to showcase the flavors and characteristics that evoke the wonders of the ocean. The Hampden 13 Years Old Cask 18 is a true gem within this collection, capturing the essence of the tropical reef fish with its captivating profile.

Tasting Notes:
With the uncorking of the Hampden 13 Years Old Cask 18, a symphony of tropical aromas fills the air. The nose is greeted with luscious notes of ripe bananas, juicy pineapples, and exotic mangoes, accompanied by hints of warm spices and oak.

The palate offers a captivating journey into the heart of Jamaican rum tradition. The initial sip unleashes a burst of tropical fruitiness, with flavors of tangy passion fruit and succulent guava taking center stage. The distinct Hampden "funk" adds layers of complexity, intertwining with notes of dark chocolate, cloves, and a subtle peppery spice. The higher ABV intensifies the experience, amplifying the rum's bold character while maintaining a remarkable balance.

The finish is long and satisfying, leaving a trail of lingering fruitiness, delicate oak, and a gentle warmth that invites further exploration. The Hampden 13 Years Old Cask 18 is a rum that demands attention, enticing enthusiasts to savor each sip and discover the intricate nuances hidden within its depths.

A Celebration of Tradition and Craftsmanship:
The label on the bottle respectfully alludes to the Hampden Estate as the "Great House Distillery," honoring the legacy and craftsmanship behind this remarkable spirit. The Duchess, with their commitment to showcasing the finest rums, celebrates the Jamaican rum-making tradition and the unique expression that Hampden embodies.

Conclusion:
The Hampden 13 Years Old Cask 18 by The Duchess is an extraordinary exploration of the high-ester Jamaican rum style. Within each bottle lies the spirit of Hampden Estate, encapsulated through The Duchess' Tropical Reef Fish Series. This cask-strength release, with its captivating flavors and remarkable depth, is a true treasure for rum enthusiasts seeking an authentic and memorable experience. With every sip, one embarks on a voyage through the flavors of the Caribbean, capturing the essence of Hampden's rich history and the allure of its high

-quality rums. The Hampden 13 Years Old Cask 18 is a testament to the artistry of both Hampden Estate and The Duchess, an exquisite union that invites connoisseurs to indulge in the wonders of Jamaican rum-making.