The Appleton Estate 1995 Hearts Collection Jamaican Rum is a masterful expression of Jamaican craftsmanship, distilled in copper pot stills and aged for an impressive 25 years in ex-Bourbon barrels. Curated by renowned Master Blender Joy Spence and rum connoisseur Luca Gargano, this limited-edition release boasts an exceptional depth of flavor. With a bold 64% ABV, it delivers intense aromas of tropical fruits like pineapple and banana, complemented by rich undertones of nutmeg, black tea, and oak. The palate offers a symphony of overripe fruits, spices, and subtle hints of bitter coffee, culminating in a medium-long, warming finish. Limited to just 3,000 bottles, this connoisseur's gem exemplifies the vibrant tradition and complexity of Jamaican rum.
Process & Profile
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Distillation: Crafted from molasses on a traditional Forsyth's copper pot still, ensuring the rum's bold, authentic Jamaican character.
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Aging: Aged for 25 years in ex-bourbon barrels under the warm tropical conditions of Jamaica, which accelerates the maturation process and intensifies its flavor complexity.
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ABV: Bottled at cask strength with an impressive 63% ABV, delivering an unadulterated and full-bodied experience.
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Unique Traits: Notably high congener content of 1,440 g/100 LAA, giving the rum layers of depth and intensity.
Tasting Notes
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Nose: Offers an elegant bouquet of black tea, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ripe tropical fruits like pineapple and banana, complemented by leather and tobacco undertones.
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Palate: A bold and complex mix of overripe passionfruit, orange, roasted spice, nutmeg, and black tea blends seamlessly with hints of butterscotch, permanent marker, and oak.
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Finish: Long, warming, and tannic with lingering notes of dried fruits, bitter coffee, and subtle gummy bears, making each sip a memorable experience.
What Makes It Special
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Masterful Craftsmanship: This vintage rum was curated by Joy Spence, Appleton Estate's legendary Master Blender, in collaboration with Velier's Luca Gargano.
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Exclusivity: With a limited production of 3,000 bottles, the 1995 Hearts Collection is a collector's dream and a symbol of Appleton Estate's high-quality artistry.
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Tropical Aging: Full maturation in Jamaica's tropical climate gives the rum rich, concentrated flavors that cannot be replicated elsewhere.
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Single Marque Distillate: This rum's production from a single recipe (marque) ensures a consistent and distinctive flavor profile.
How to Enjoy
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Neat: Savor it straight to appreciate the full spectrum of flavors. For the best experience, use a Glencairn glass to capture its complex aromas.
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With Water: Add a few drops of water to open up subtler flavors and soften the high ABV.
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Collector's Display: This bottle makes a stunning addition to any rum or spirits collection, with its elegant packaging highlighting its exclusivity.
The Appleton Estate 1995 Hearts Collection invites rum enthusiasts to embark on a sensory journey through the rich heritage of Jamaican rum. With its bold character, limited availability, and remarkable craftsmanship, it is truly a celebration of Appleton Estate's uncompromising commitment to excellence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Appleton Estate 1995 Hearts Collection unique?
The Appleton Estate 1995 Hearts Collection is a limited-edition release showcasing single-vintage rum distilled in 1995. Made entirely in a copper pot still and aged in tropical conditions for 25 years, it offers an exceptional level of complexity and depth, with no additives and bottled at cask strength.
What flavor profile can I expect from this rum?
This rum is known for its bold and estery character with pronounced fruity notes such as raspberries, prunes, and raisins, alongside oak, toffee, molasses, and a hint of bitter chocolate. Its long tropical aging enhances the intensity, offering a dry and fruity palate with wood spice and a lingering finish.
Can this rum be consumed neat or mixed in cocktails?
Given its exceptional aging and flavor complexity, this rum is best enjoyed neat or with a few drops of water to open up its aromas. While it can be used in cocktails, its premium nature typically makes it more fitting for sipping.
Is the Appleton Estate 1995 Hearts Collection part of a series?
Yes, it is part of the Appleton Hearts Collection, which also includes other single-vintage releases such as the 1994 and 1999 editions. Each release highlights the mastery of Appleton Estate's rum-making process and reflects unique flavor characteristics.
What is the alcohol by volume (ABV) of this rum?
The Appleton Estate 1995 Hearts Collection is bottled at cask strength, meaning its alcohol content reflects its natural state after aging. The specific ABV can vary slightly but typically ranges over 60%.
How is this rum aged?
This rum is aged for 25 years in American oak barrels under tropical conditions in Jamaica. The intense tropical climate accelerates the aging process, resulting in richer and more concentrated flavors.
What distinguishes Appleton Estate from other Jamaican rums?
Appleton Estate is one of Jamaica's most historic distilleries, adhering to meticulous production techniques like copper pot distillation and tropical aging. Their rums have a Geographical Indication (GI) certification, ensuring authenticity and adherence to Jamaican rum production standards, such as no added sugar or flavorings.
How limited is the Appleton Estate 1995 Hearts Collection?
The Hearts Collection releases are highly limited, making them sought after by rum enthusiasts and collectors. Availability differs by region, and once sold out, they become extremely rare.
Does the rum contain any additives?
No, Appleton Estate adheres to strict Jamaican rum standards, which prohibit the addition of sugar, flavorings, or other additives. The flavor and color come purely from the natural process of fermentation, distillation, and aging.
Who created this rum?
This rum was crafted under the guidance of Joy Spence, the world's first female Master Blender. Her expertise in blending and dedication to the craft was integral in creating the Hearts Collection.
What is the best way to store this rum?
Store the bottle upright in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and temperature fluctuations to maintain its quality over time.
