Caroni 1996 - 2021 Special Edition 5th Release Roopnarine "Roop" Toolsie

The Caroni 1996 - 2021 Special Edition 5th Release is a remarkable bottling from the beloved “Employees” series, honoring Roopnarine “Roop” Toolsie, a dedicated member of the Caroni team. Distilled in 1996 and bottled in 2021 after 25 years of aging, this rum captures the very spirit of Caroni: raw, powerful, and uncompromising. This edition is both a tribute to Toolsie and a testament to the enduring legacy of the distillery.

Tasting Notes

Nose

An intense aromatic profile. The nose opens with dominant scents of warm tar, asphalt, and engine oil. Deeper layers follow with aromas of dark fruits, clove, wet leather, and a hint of menthol. The bouquet is heavy and immersive—quintessential Caroni.

Palate

On the palate, the rum is overwhelmingly full and bold. Flavors of burnt caramel, bitter chocolate, and espresso mix with smoky wood, black pepper, and hints of orange peel. The texture is syrupy and oily, with a strong, slow-unfolding presence.

Finish

Exceptionally long and complex. Resin, licorice, leather, and a slight saltiness linger, joined by subtle notes of charred spices. A finish that leaves a deep impression and invites contemplation.

About the distillery

Founded in 1918 in Trinidad, the Caroni distillery became famous for its heavy, industrial-style rums. After shutting down in 2002, the remaining casks were preserved and later bottled in small, exclusive releases. The “Employees” series is a tribute to the people behind these iconic spirits. This fifth release, dedicated to Roopnarine “Roop” Toolsie, captures the essence of Caroni’s past and delivers it in liquid form: intense, honest, and unforgettable.