Caroni 1998 Bristol Classic Rum 40% 1997

Professional reviews

BOW (90)

Caroni 17 Years 1998 Bristol Classic Rum: A Glimpse into the Vanished World of Trinidad's Rum Heritage

In the vast and diverse world of rum, there are a few names that evoke nostalgia and reverence, and Caroni is undoubtedly one of them. Its storied past, once interwoven with the thriving rum industry of Trinidad, lives on through exceptional expressions like the Caroni 17 Years 1998 Bristol Classic Rum. Bottled as part of Bristol Classic Rum's "finest" series, this particular rum offers enthusiasts a chance to savor the essence of a bygone era that can never be replicated.

Established in 1923 on the grounds of the old Caroni Sugar factory, Caroni distillery played a vital role in Trinidad's rum legacy. At its peak, Trinidad boasted more than fifty distilleries, a testament to the Caribbean island's rich sugarcane heritage and mastery of rum production. However, as the years went by, economic changes and industry consolidation took their toll, reducing the number of distilleries to just eight by 1950. Presently, only the iconic Angostura Distillery remains, preserving the tradition and heritage of Trinidad's rum-making craft.

Caroni's fate took a decisive turn in 2001 when the Trinidad Government controversially sold a 49% stake in Rum Distillers Limited (Caroni's Rum Division) to Angostura for a considerable sum of €31.55 million. This strategic move led to the gradual decline of Caroni's operations, and despite protests from those who cherished its heritage, the distillery eventually ceased its operations in 2002.

The demise of the Trinidadian sugar cane industry also played a crucial role in Caroni's decline. Once a thriving source of molasses for the distillery, the decline in sugar production forced surviving distilleries on the island to import molasses, primarily from neighboring Guyana. This shift had a profound impact on the flavor profiles of the rums produced, making expressions like Caroni 17 Years 1998 Bristol Classic Rum all the more precious for their uniqueness.

Bristol Classic Rum, an independent bottler with a passion for preserving rum heritage, recognized the significance of Caroni's legacy and released the Caroni 17 Years 1998 expression as part of their "finest" series. Distilled in 1998 and bottled in 2015, this aged rum embodies the dedication and craftsmanship that once defined Caroni's production. Over its seventeen-year maturation period, the rum developed complexity, depth, and character that has become increasingly rare in today's fast-paced rum industry.

The Caroni 17 Years 1998 Bristol Classic Rum presents a harmonious fusion of flavors that tantalize the senses. At 40% ABV, it delivers a well-balanced and approachable experience, making it an excellent choice for both seasoned rum enthusiasts and newcomers to the world of aged spirits. Upon sipping, one can discern notes of oak, molasses, dried fruits, and a subtle touch of spices, providing a glimpse into the distinguished heavy rum style that Caroni was renowned for.

Acquiring a bottle of Caroni 17 Years 1998 Bristol Classic Rum has become a quest for collectors and connoisseurs alike, as it represents not just a spirit to be savored but a piece of history to be treasured. Each sip becomes a journey back in time, transporting drinkers to an era when Caroni's rum was proudly supplied to the British Navy, carrying the essence of a now-closed and demolished distillery that left an indelible mark on the world of rum.

In conclusion, the Caroni 17 Years 1998 Bristol Classic Rum stands as a tribute to the legacy of a distillery that once flourished and left an enduring impact on Trinidad's rum culture. Thanks to the dedication of independent bottlers like Bristol Classic Rum, the spirit of Caroni lives on, allowing modern enthusiasts to experience the magic of a vanished world through each carefully crafted bottle.