Caroni 1998 - 2020 Special Edition 4th Release Dayanand "Yunkoo" Balloon

The Caroni 1998 - 2020 Special Edition 4th Release is a bold and characterful rum from the celebrated “Employees” series, dedicated to Dayanand “Yunkoo” Balloon – a loyal worker at the Caroni distillery. Distilled in 1998 and bottled in 2020 after 22 years of aging, this release embodies the industrial, heavy, and deeply layered character that has made Caroni rums legendary. This bottling honors not just a person, but an entire philosophy of craftsmanship and tradition.

Tasting Notes

Nose

The nose is immediately intense and unmistakably Caroni. Notes of tar, warm engine oil, and burnt wood dominate at first. Then subtler layers develop—dark raisins, stewed prunes, old books, and a hint of clove. A raw, powerful, and deeply complex aroma.

Palate

Full-bodied and expressive. Burnt caramel, bitter chocolate, black coffee, and leather form the core, supported by salty notes, roasted spices, and a trace of tropical fruit. The texture is thick, oily, almost syrupy, delivering a mouth-coating and intense experience.

Finish

Long and layered. Smoky wood, licorice, resin, and black pepper linger well into the finish. As it evolves, a surprising freshness appears—citrus zest and eucalyptus. A complex, evolving finish that stays true to Caroni’s identity.

About the distillery

Founded in 1918 in Trinidad, the Caroni distillery became known for its heavy, industrial-style rums with bold, oily profiles. Since closing in 2002, Caroni has achieved cult status among collectors and aficionados. The “Employees” series pays tribute to the men and women who formed the spirit of the distillery. This edition, dedicated to Dayanand “Yunkoo” Balloon, captures not only the power of Caroni rum, but also the human stories behind every barrel.