Caroni 1997/2013 16 YO Silver Seal
This rare expression from the long-lost Caroni Distillery in Trinidad was distilled in 1997 and aged for 16 years before being bottled in 2013 by the prestigious Italian independent bottler Silver Seal. Drawn from Cask No. 16, it is one of only 290 bottles ever released, making it a true collector's gem.
Distilled from molasses using a column still, this rum underwent both tropical and continental aging, contributing to its complex profile. Bottled at a balanced 46% ABV, it reveals the unmistakable Caroni DNA with softened intensity - gritty, oily, yet refined by time.
Expect aromas of tar, leather, and dried tropical fruits, leading into a palate rich in spice, burnt sugar, and earthy wood. The finish is long, with subtle medicinal and smoky notes, characteristic of the best mid-aged Caronis.
Specifications
Type: Single Vintage Rum
Distillery: Caroni
Bottler: Silver Seal
Vintage: 1997
Bottled: 2013
Age: 16 Years
Cask Number: #16
ABV: 46%
Size: 700ml
Distillation Method: Column Still
Base Ingredient: Molasses
Climate Aging: Tropical & Continental
Number of Bottles: 290
About Caroni Distillery
Established in 1918 on the Caroni Plain of Trinidad, the Caroni Distillery quickly rose to fame due to its proximity to the island's main sugar plantations and direct access to high-quality local molasses. Renowned for its heavy-style rums, Caroni played a crucial role in producing spirits for the British Navy and became iconic for its intense, high-ester profiles.
After decades of operation, and a gradual decline following Trinidad and Tobago’s independence and shifting global sugar dynamics, Caroni ceased production in 2003. Its stock was partially acquired by Angostura, with the remaining barrels famously “rediscovered” by Luca Gargano of Velier in 2004 - a turning point that cemented Caroni’s legendary status among collectors.
About Silver Seal
Founded in 2000 by Ernesto Rino Mainardi and later acquired by Max Righi, Silver Seal has become one of Italy’s most respected names in independent bottling. Initially focused on whisky, the company has built a reputation for its meticulously selected rum releases - particularly vintage bottlings from Caroni, Enmore, and Long Pond - distinguished by elegant labels and uncompromising quality.
