Founded in the early 1900s, Caroni emerged as the state distillery of Trinidad, with its inaugural productions dating back to 1918. The success of Caroni has a captivating story that took an intriguing turn in October 2004. Luca Gargano, the owner of Velier, embarked on a tropical journey to Guyana and Trinidad with photographer Fredi Marcarini to capture the essence of Caribbean rums and their landscapes.
Their exploration led them to Southern Main Road, where they stumbled upon a disused, abandoned distillery with a post-apocalyptic ambiance. Inside, Gargano encountered a lady who revealed that the distillery had been closed by government decision in 2003. Amidst the ruins, Gargano noticed a manual bottling process in progress, conducted entirely by hand. Intrigued, he inquired about barrels left in aging and was introduced to the liquidator, Rudy Moore.
Guided by Moore through the thick grass to a vast warehouse, Gargano was met with an incredible sight – hundreds of barrels spanning different vintages, from 1974 to the last distillations of 2000. Impressed, Gargano decided to send samples to Italy for analysis and certification. The remarkable results led him to acquire the entire remaining stock of barrels, bottling them at full proof or heavy degree to preserve the perfect harmony of fragrances and aromas.
Choosing to adorn the labels with photos captured by Fredi Marcarini during the expedition, Gargano initiated the importation, bottling, and dissemination of this invaluable heritage. These rums, rich in history and aromas, represent what remains of a bygone era. Initially available exclusively in Italy until 2012, Caroni's allure has grown, making it a highly regarded investment for enthusiasts and collectors worldwide.
The Caroni Velier Employees Series was conceived as a tribute to the 14 employees of the original Caroni distillery, brought together through their work with Rudy Moore. Moore, tasked with liquidating the distillery, negotiated with Luca immediately after the discovery of the remaining rum barrels. The bottles in this series bear the name, nickname, and photograph of each Caroni employee, with the images captured by Fredi Marcarini, the man behind the visuals on almost every Caroni bottle selected by Luca Gargano.
Fredi, present on the day the barrels were found, returned 12 years later to immortalize all the employees to whom the 14 blends are dedicated. The barrels used for this edition were meticulously selected on April 3 and 4, 2019, during the Caroni Ceremony in Cognac. Luca, with a watchful eye, oversaw the transfer of the last 140 barrels of Caroni stocks found in 2004 to Europe. From these, 60 barrels were chosen by 8 tasting groups to create blends, placed in stainless steel vats to permanently halt maturation until bottling.
This project stands as a true tribute to the history of the legendary Caroni distillery, a must-have for enthusiasts of rums from Trinidad.
The first rum to be mentioned from the famous Caroni Employees Series, this initial release contains a blend of 5 barrels of heavy Caroni rum. Distilled in a single column and aged for 22 years in a tropical climate, the blend was selected by Luca and Olivier Scars. The label features employee John, who has worked for Caroni since 1981. The first sips reveal fruity notes of papaya mingled with floral echoes. Following this, the onset of heavy flavors like kerosene, tar, and sugar cane becomes all the more surprising. In 1 192 bottles produced in 2018, expect a heavy rum, but one that surprises with its light, fruity finish.
The "Dennis Gopaul" release is a distinctive rum with a rich and complex flavor profile. Distilled in 1998 in Trinidad and Tobago at the now-closed Caroni distillery, this rum is a true collector's item. Bottled at a robust 69.5% ABV, the intense strength of this spirit is balanced by the deep and layered flavors it offers. The 20 years of aging in oak barrels have imparted notes of tropical fruits, vanilla, and spice, creating a truly memorable drinking experience. This limited edition release showcases the craftsmanship and expertise of master blender Dennis X Gopaul and is a testament to the legacy of the Caroni distillery. Whether enjoyed neat or in a carefully crafted cocktail, the Velier Caroni 1998 Employees Edition is sure to impress even the most discerning rum connoisseurs. With only 1 151 bottles produced, this rum is a rare and exceptional find for enthusiasts of fine rums.
1st Release review on Single Cask Rum
This edition is a remarkable rum that embodies the rich history and tradition of Caribbean rum production. This particular release is a testament to the exceptional craftsmanship and expertise of the employees at the Caroni distillery. Aged in Trinidad, this makes it a truly special and unique product. With a high alcohol content of 66.5%, this rum offers a complex and intense flavor profile. The 23 years of aging in oak barrels have imparted deep, rich notes of molasses, tropical fruits, and vanilla, creating a luxurious and indulgent drinking experience. Each bottle is a collector's item and a piece of rum-making history, showcasing the talent and dedication of the individuals involved in its production. This limited edition release of 953 bottles is a must-have for any serious rum enthusiast or collector looking to experience a piece of Caribbean heritage in a bottle.
Kevon "Slippery" Moreno worked at the distillery for 10 years and is dedicated to the blend of rums from 7 casks. The barrels to produce this heavy rum blend were selected directly during the Caroni Ceremony. Until then, the rums had been aged in the Trinidadian tropics for 21 years in bourbon barrels. 1400 bottles were bottled. Any rum enthusiast will be delighted by the full profile of this spirit, which will linger for a long time with its strong aromas and flavours of exotic fruits and spices.
2nd Release review on Le Blog a Roger
Only 766 bottles and an angel tax of 85% - this too is a blend of 4 casks of heavy rum of one of Caroni's best vintages, dedicated to Vijay "Vijay" Ranmarine, who worked for Caroni for 23 years. The casks were left in a tropical climate for 24 years of maturation and after being transferred to Europe, they were placed in stainless steel vats where the maturation was permanently stopped. The refined flavours of tropical fruits and spices with a hint of liquorice are captured in a spirit of pure amber colour. The mahogany highlights of this unique rum indicate that it is a heavy and warm rum whose complex flavours will linger in your mouth long after the first sip.
The rum dedicated to Ganesh Ramgobie is a blend of 7 heavy Caroni rums aged for 22 years in a tropical climate. It is an old heavy rum that was aged from 1998 to 2008 directly in Trinidad, then in British Guiana until 2019. In 2019, Luca Gargano went with 26 other Caroni experts to the warehouses and selected a seven-barrel blend that was placed in tank and then bottled as the third release of the Velier "employee" series in 2020. Thanks to this process, the rum has a beautiful full brown colour, which hides a spirit with a flavour that will turn many a connoisseur's head. The sugar cane is interwoven with notes of orange, vanilla and aniseed. Unlike previous series, this heavy flavour is not dominated by kerosene or rubber, but by burnt wood, leather and tobacco. The uniqueness of this blend lies in the dominant earthy notes with a hint of sweetness or menthol. It must be said that only 1295 bottles were produced.
For just 1,187 bottles of this premium rum, 6 barrels of Caroni rum were blended and aged for 20 years in the tropics. The rum from this premium series hit the market in 2020 and immediately became one of the best and highly requested by connoisseurs and collectors around the world. Although the era of the Caroni distillery is over, its legacy is mirrored in this heavy, aromatic rum of a beautiful amber colour. The quality of the raw materials means that we get our hands on a spirit with an extremely complex flavour profile. Like other Caroni rums, this one boasts full and intense flavours of ripe fruit and citrus wrapped in a rich, warming aroma and liquorice.
Balas "Brigade" Bhaggan worked at the Caroni distillery for 14 years and is dedicated the rum from 6 casks of heavy rum, 1158 bottles were bottled. This rum is characterised by its extraordinary strength, rich spicy aroma, exuberant fruit and chocolate. It presents Caroni in a slightly softer light, but without losing its majesty, complexity and harmony. The opulence and passion of this rum is intensified by the aromas of smoked meat and bacon. Here is a traditional rum of extraordinary quality that is the highlight of many a rum connoisseur's tasting.
The blend bottled full with a total of 1,251 bottles for the world, consists of 6 single cask rums and is dedicated to Basdeo "Dicky" Ramsarran, who worked at the Caroni distillery for 20 years, and is one of the youngest vintages of this legendary distillery. Without departing from its traditional Caroni profile, this rum has echoes of tropical landscapes and exotic fruits mixed with fresh forest fruits and chocolate. Playful flavours are wrapped in a flavour harmony of perfectly tuned spices and floral aromas. The colour will leave no one in doubt that this is a rum of extraordinary quality and will gently guide any aficionado through the footsteps of the Trinidadian tropics.
"Dayanand Yunkoo Balloon" edition is a highly sought-after rum known for its exceptional quality and distinctive flavor profile. Bottled at a robust 68.3% ABV, this 700ml bottle is a treasure for rum enthusiasts and collectors alike. Produced at the now-closed Caroni distillery in Trinidad, this release showcases the expertise and craftsmanship of the employees involved in its production. Dayanand Yunkoo, the master distiller, is renowned for his dedication to preserving the traditional techniques and heritage of Caroni rum. The rich and complex flavors of this rum are a testament to his skill, with notes of caramel, oak, and tropical fruits delighting the senses. With only a limited number of bottles produced (1 180 bottles), the Velier Caroni 1998 Employees Edition 4th Release Dayanand Yunkoo Balloon is a true gem for anyone fortunate enough to experience it.
This bottle is a highly sought-after rum produced by the now-closed Caroni distillery in Trinidad. This limited edition release of 730 bottles is part of a series of rums that have been highly praised by enthusiasts and collectors for their unique and complex flavors. The 1996 Employees Edition, in particular, is named after Dhanraj Dan Maharaj, who was one of the employees at the Caroni distillery. This release is bottled at 66.3% ABV and comes in a 700ml bottle, making it a strong and bold rum that packs a punch. The Caroni distillery was known for producing heavy, full-bodied rums, and this release is no exception. With its rich and intense flavors, this rum is a must-try for any serious rum connoisseur who appreciates the history and craftsmanship that goes into each bottle of Caroni rum.
This is another highly sought-after rum with a strong 66.7% alcohol content. This limited edition 700ml bottle is a true collector's item, with only a small number available for purchase, which is 738 bottles. Distilled in Trinidad at the Caroni distillery, this rum has been aged to perfection, resulting in a smooth and rich flavor profile. Named after Deodat Breeze Manmohan, the former manager of the Caroni distillery, this special release pays homage to the employees who worked tirelessly to create this exceptional rum. The release represents the fifth edition of the Employees Edition, showcasing the dedication and expertise of the workers at the forefront of the rum-making process. With its high proof and unique history, the Velier Caroni 1996 Employees Edition is a must-have for any rum enthusiast looking to add a touch of Trinidadian heritage to their collection.
Only 741 bottles of this ediotion of rum was bottled and that's why it's another highly sought-after rum from the Caroni distillery in Trinidad. This 5th release in the series is a limited edition bottling, with only 700ml available at a remarkable 66.1% ABV. Distilled in 1996 and aged for 23 years, this rum offers a complex and intense flavor profile that has captivated rum enthusiasts around the world. This particular release is named after Roopnarine Roop Toolsie, a long-time employee of the Caroni distillery, and it pays tribute to his dedication and hard work. Velier has become renowned for its exceptional and rare rums, and this Caroni release is no exception. With its rich history and high quality, this rum has become a collector's item for connoisseurs and a coveted addition to any rum enthusiast's collection. If you are lucky enough to come across a bottle of Velier Caroni 1996 Employees Edition 5th Release Roopnarine Roop Toolsie Velier, it is sure to be a special and cherished find.
This bottle of rum, named after Mahesh Sonny Black Bridgelal is a highly sought-after rum that showcases the unique flavors and character of the Caroni distillery and is one of three bottles of Caroni Employees 6th Release. With a high ABV of 64.6%, this 700ml bottle packs a punch and offers a complex and intense tasting experience. Mahesh Sonny Black Bridgelal, the master distiller behind this release, has created a rum that has been celebrated for its rich and distinctive profile. Notes of oak, tropical fruits, and spice are prominent, with a long, lingering finish that leaves a lasting impression. This special edition of 689 bottles is a rare find and is highly coveted by rum enthusiasts and collectors alike. The attention to detail and craftsmanship that goes into each bottle is evident, making it a standout addition to any spirits collection. Whether enjoyed neat or in a carefully crafted cocktail, the Velier Caroni 1996 Employees Edition is an exceptional rum that captures the essence of the Caroni distillery.
This extremely rare rum is a blend of 4 casks, aged for 25 years in Trinidad and is another edition of Caroni Employees. It is dedicated to Ricky "Dirty Harry" Seeharack, who worked at the distillery for 20 years - only 630 bottles were produced for the world, tasting this rum is truly an extraordiany experience. What we are presented is an exclusive rum of incredible quality, with flavours of burnt wood, tar and caramel running through its foundation. Through the heavy flavour, subtle rays of vanilla and chocolate-covered fruit with a hint of menthol shine through.
This is the last rum produced in Employees edition is a highly sought-after rum from the closed distillery in Trinidad. This particular release is a special employee edition, adding to its rarity and appeal among rum enthusiasts. Bottled at a cask strength of 66.6%, this rum packs a punch with its intense flavors and high alcohol content, that it could be called full proof rum. The aroma is a combination of rich molasses, tropical fruits, and oak, while the taste offers a complex blend of spices, caramel, and hints of tobacco. With only 754 bottles produced, this limited edition rum is a true collector's item. The history and unique characteristics of the Caroni distillery make this rum a prized possession for connoisseurs and collectors alike. It's a must-have for anyone looking to experience the depth and complexity of a classic Caribbean rum with a distinctive and rare profile.
Caroni Rum refers to a premium rum produced at the Caroni distillery in Trinidad. It is highly sought after by rum enthusiasts due to its full-proof and distinctive flavors.
Caroni Employees are individuals who were associated with the Caroni distillery in Trinidad during its operation. Their contributions have been recognized through special releases by Velier and Luca Gargano.
The Velier Caroni Employees Series comprises a range of limited edition rums created to honor the legacy of the Caroni employees. These releases are highly coveted by collectors and enthusiasts.
Full Proof denotes the strength at which Caroni rum was traditionally bottled, without any dilution. This characteristic contributes to its intense and rich flavor profile.
Caroni rum was distilled at the now-closed Caroni distillery in Trinidad and Tobago. The distillery operated for decades before its closure, making its rums highly sought after. It closed its doors in 2003.
The age of Caroni rum releases varies based on the specific bottling. Some are distilled in the late 1990s, and their ages can range from 15 to 20 years, contributing to their complexity and depth of flavors.
Yes, you can still purchase these bottles. By checking the specific bottle profiles (with links included in the bottle descriptions), you'll find that you can buy or sell these rums at Rum Auctioneer Online (for example), a verified online auction portal. The bottles are presented with detailed descriptions and images.
If you have any further questions beyond the provided description, please contact us. You can reach out to us via email at [email protected], or feel free to use the chat feature in the app for immediate assistance. Our team is always available to help with any queries you may have.
Yes, this is possible. Velier also offers sample bottles in 100ml and 200ml versions, specially provided for members of the Velier Club. You can find the samples here.
