There is something immediately appealing about Caroni Trinidad 1996. This overproof rum from Trinidad & Tobago makes a strong first impression — A 1996-vintage rum from the fifth release of the Caroni Employees series that is dedicated to Dhanraj Dan Maharaj, who worked at the distillery for 22. At 66.3% ABV, it sits at a strength that suggests the distiller wanted to preserve flavour without overwhelming the drinker.
Caroni has built a reputation for quality in the overproof category, and this bottling continues that tradition. A 1996-vintage rum from the fifth release of the Caroni Employees series that is dedicated to Dhanraj Dan Maharaj, who worked at the distillery for 22 years.. It is this attention to craft that elevates the final product beyond the ordinary.
On the nose, the rum opens with an inviting complexity that draws you into the glass. There is a confident interplay between the spirit's natural character and the influence of maturation, creating layers that reveal themselves gradually. The palate confirms what the nose promises — this is a rum with genuine substance. At 66.3% ABV, the alcohol is well-integrated, never harsh or overwhelming, allowing the full spectrum of flavour to unfold across the tongue. The mouthfeel is luxuriously smooth, with an almost oily richness without becoming heavy or cloying.
As for serving, Caroni Trinidad 1996 works beautifully in a Rum Punch or Zombie, where its muscle can stand up to multiple mixers. That said, a spirit at this level of quality deserves at least one tasting neat before you start mixing — you will want to appreciate the complexity that Caroni has worked so hard to achieve.
At £2000.00, Caroni Trinidad 1996 offers solid quality and merits a place on any rum lover's shelf. Scoring 7 out of 10, it holds its own in the overproof category. Worth seeking out.
