Caroni 25 Years Old Rum Sponge 61.3% 1998

Professional reviews

BOW (90)

In the world of rare and distinguished rums, Caroni stands as a legendary distillery with a storied history. The Caroni 25 Years Old Rum Sponge, distilled in 1995 and bottled in 2023 by the independent bottler Rum Sponge from the U.K, is a testament to the exceptional craftsmanship and dedication to quality that defines this iconic Trinidadian distillery. Created exclusively for La Maison du Whisky as part of the Exclusive Edition #3 in the New Vibrations series, this expression is a rare gem limited to just 243 bottles.

The Distillation:
Caroni Distillery, once a pillar of Trinidad's rum industry, produced spirits known for their robust and full-bodied character. The Caroni 25 Years Old Rum Sponge is a product of the distillery's legacy, distilled in 1995 and aged for a quarter of a century. This extended maturation period allowed the rum to develop a complexity and depth that only time can impart, making it a true connoisseur's delight.

Crafted by Rum Sponge:
Rum Sponge, the independent bottler behind this exclusive release, is known for its discerning taste and commitment to sourcing exceptional casks. The careful selection of the Caroni cask for this Limited Edition #3 in the New Vibrations series is a testament to Rum Sponge's dedication to delivering extraordinary and unique expressions to the discerning rum enthusiast.

Maturation and Bottling:
Aged at a robust 61.3%, the Caroni 25 Years Old Rum Sponge has matured gracefully, absorbing the essence of the Caribbean climate and the oak cask. The choice of cask has played a pivotal role, enhancing the rum's profile with rich, deep flavors. The bottling in 2023 captures the essence of a bygone era at Caroni, commemorating the distillery's legacy and the finality of its production.

Exclusive Edition #3 New Vibrations Series:
As part of La Maison du Whisky's Exclusive Edition #3 in the New Vibrations series, the Caroni 25 Years Old Rum Sponge holds a special place in the hearts of collectors and enthusiasts. The New Vibrations series represents a journey into the evolving landscape of premium spirits, and this expression is a remarkable addition, showcasing the intersection of tradition and innovation in the world of rum.

Limited Rarity:
With a mere 243 bottles released, the Caroni 25 Years Old Rum Sponge is a rare and highly sought-after gem. The exclusivity of this release ensures that each bottle is a unique and collectible piece of Caribbean rum history. Rum enthusiasts and collectors alike will undoubtedly appreciate the opportunity to own a piece of the final chapter of Caroni's legacy.

Conclusion:
Caroni 25 Years Old Rum Sponge, crafted by Rum Sponge for La Maison du Whisky's Exclusive Edition #3 in the New Vibrations series, is more than a rum; it is a time capsule of Trinidad's rich distilling heritage. From the meticulous distillation at Caroni to the curation by Rum Sponge, every aspect of this expression speaks to the artistry and craftsmanship that defines exceptional rum. For those fortunate enough to acquire one of the 243 bottles, the Caroni 25 Years Old Rum Sponge is a rare and exceptional journey into the heart of Caribbean distilling excellence.

Serge Valentin (91)

Roughly 12 years in the tropics and 12 years in Europe. Yeah that sounds like the life of a biotech whiz. It's not often that bottles for France would display interpretations of the Parisian Metro rather than the Arc de Triomphe or the Tour Eiffel. In any case, we're delighted to hear that there's a new subway station called 'Rum Sponge'; we'll try to pay it a visit. As long as this Caroni doesn't come with a 'Mind the gap' warning, we should be alright... Colour: full gold. Nose (neat): oh my, it shifts gears rapidly. A lot of shoe polish initially, then patchouli and mothballs, followed by industrial solvent, then old rags in an old wardrobe, and old paint pots forgotten in the cellar... Well, you get the picture. We won't dwell too much on it at 61% ABV. With water: it becomes very elegant, almost refined, with a slight old cognac aspect. One could enjoy it at the bar of The Lanesborough. Sorry, I mean the Hotel Raphael. Mouth: you're realizing that they're having us drink a mix of petrol, very, very ripe crushed bananas, acetone, and motor oil, and once more, with hints of quite herby green olives. It's just missing an address on the label for us to write a complaint. With water: beautiful, really focused on these olives, smoked almonds, lapsang souchong, licorice... And much less on all things hydrocarbons. Finish: completely different depending on whether you've added water or not. Black Sabbath or Mozart, as it were. Comments: it's a 'heavy' Caroni that's quite different, which seems to have followed its own path, even if it retains a, let's say 'British Petroleum' side. It loves water, as long as you don't drown it. It's almost the whole history of civilization that you have here in your glass (typical exaggeration); well not sure though that the Paris metro is a great example of that civilization.