The Last Drop 25 Year Old Caroni Trinidad Rum Release 41 (1997 & 1999)

This is a 25 year old Trinidad rum from The Last Drop, made at the Caroni distillery, which closed in 2003. Release 41 marries two casks, one distilled in 1997 and one in 1999, chosen because they complemented each other. The aim is to show both the heavier, oily Caroni character and a more delicate, floral side, with lifted aromatics and juicy tropical fruit. The colour is a deep bronze-gold. On the nose there are white flowers and eucalyptus over tropical fruit. The palate opens with sweet papaya, stewed hibiscus and spiced ginger cake, then moves to hot rubber, green banana leaf and dry white pepper. The finish is long and gently smoky, with peppery dryness and lingering tropical notes.