In the Caribbean, off the coast of Venezuela in South America, between latitudes 10 and 12 degrees north, lies the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, spread across two beautiful green islands particularly suited to growing sugar cane. In 1498, on his third westward voyage, Christopher Columbus reached Trinidad. Deeply impressed by its beauty, he reported to Queen Isabella of Spain on the enchanting island and its tropical climate, recommending that it be taken over together with the Catholic Church.
The Spanish conquerors who arrived sought an alcoholic drink. Since the island’s hot, humid climate was unsuitable for growing vines, sugar cane provided the raw material: sugar. The abundant sugar-cane harvest allows the republic to produce plenty of rum, but the truly fine rum is made in measured quantities.
Caroni rum, with its brilliant brown hue, flavors of vanilla, coconut and burnt sugar, and aromas of wood and toasted smoke, is made from molasses: the concentrated liquid remaining after crystalline sugar is produced. It is a strong, full-bodied rum for people with the requisite capacity, in more than one sense. Since a rum with such a high alcohol content can be difficult to approach, dilution and/or chilling is essential. It is recommended to remove the stopper about half an hour before pouring and diluting.
Caroni is also used in famous cocktails, including the Daiquiri, with fresh lime and sugar; the Mojito, with fresh lime and mint leaves; and the Cuba Libre, with ice-cold Coca-Cola.
Country of origin: Trinidad
Aging: 21 years
Alcohol: 57.18% ABV
Price in the original article: $379
The verdict: Caribbean power at its finest.
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Warning: Excessive consumption of alcohol is life-threatening and harmful to health.
