(Photo: Appleton Estate)
Famed Jamaican rum producer Appleton Estate is expanding its 100% pot still Hearts Collection with a 25-year-old bottling sure to impress die-hard spirits enthusiasts.
On Tuesday, the brand officially unveiled Hearts Collection 1998, named in honor of its vintage. Brought to market by master blender Dr. Joy Spence and rum expert Luca Gargano, the blisteringly high 63% ABV expression has been limited to just 2,706 bottles. Said to have been hand-selected from 19 barrels containing a single "proprietary marquee" distilled in a copper pot still, the bottling is available now through select retailers at a suggested price of $650.
Over the past decade, releases in the Hearts Collection have included 1994, 1995, 1999, 1984 and 2003 alongside last year's 1993 and 2002. During a tasting session with media, Spence explained the inspiration behind the Hearts Collection name, saying:
"One, Appleton Estate is located in the heart of Jamaica. Two, the pot still is the heart of all our blends. And three, it’s combining the hearts of two people who are passionate about making rum. And interestingly, whenever I sign a bottle, I always put a little heart on it."
While chatting with Spence, we were lucky enough to taste the exclusive bottling for ourselves. There was a lot to like.
On the nose, Bottle Raiders' Jessica Gleman noted aromas of honey, dried mango and banana followed by hints of brown sugar and spice after some breathing time. The palate brims with flavors of citrus peel, candied ginger and dark chocolate, while the finish delivered an intense but none-too-overpowering burst of oakiness.
Overall, we thought this was an excellent addition to the Hearts Collection and another decisive hit for the historied distiller. Click here to read our full review.
First introduced in 1749, Appleton Estate is purportedly the oldest continually operating rum distillery in Jamaica. Centuries later, it's still got a few tricks up its sleeve.
"The 1998 release is very special, not only for its incredible depth and age, but also because it pays homage to one of the most cherished releases of my career," Spence said in a news release. "Hearts Collection 1998 closely replicates one of the rare marques used in the Appleton Estate Joy Anniversary Blend. Its striking vanilla notes and silky finish make this an ideal rum for sipping and savoring."
For more details on Hearts Collection 1998, check out pre-sale info on the brand's website.
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