Jamaica is well-known for its rum, and there’s one name that stands out above the rest: Appleton Estate. The oldest continuously operating rum distillery on the island is well-known for its high-quality, long-aged rums. But recently, the renowned brand announced the launch of its rarest and longest-aged expression in its 275-year-old history.
Appleton Estate 51 Years Old The Source
It’s called Appleton Estate The Source, named after the crystal clear aquifer at the heart of Appleton Estate. It’s been maturing for more than five decades. This single marque rum is made from Appleton Estate’s single estate sugar cane. It’s made using open fermentation before being distilled in traditional copper pot stills. It began maturing in oak barrels on July 30th, 1973.
According to the brand, the result is a 124-proof rum that begins with a nose of honeyed raisins, cinnamon, maple candy, orange peels, and vanilla beans. Sipping it reveals notes of candied orange peels, raisins, figs, oak, and dark chocolate. The finish is a warming, spicy mix of oak and ginger.
“Tasting this beautiful expression with Owen over 40 years ago sparked my lifelong passion for the possibilities of aged rum,” Appleton Estate Master Blender Dr. Joy Spence says.
“This release is a tribute to the artistry, dedication, and spirit of our people; from the hand-harvested cane and traditional distillation to the stewardship of our barrels across generations. Jamaica and rum are inseparable, like the heart and soul captured in The Source.”
Where can I buy it?
As you can imagine, the long-aged rum is available in very limited quantities in select markets and costs a staggering $70,000 per bottle.
