The Appleton Estate 1999 Hearts Collection Jamaican Rum is a rare gem, exemplifying the pinnacle of Jamaican rum craftsmanship. Distilled in 1999 on a copper pot still and aged for 21 years in ex-bourbon barrels, this 100% pot still rum is bottled at a robust 63% ABV, offering a full-bodied tropical profile. With just 3,000 bottles released, it showcases a refined balance of intense flavors like grilled pineapple, orange peel, butterscotch, and warm spices, complemented by a long, oaky finish. Hand-selected by legendary Master Blender Joy Spence and acclaimed rum expert Luca Gargano, this limited-edition expression is a tribute to Appleton Estate's rich heritage and commitment to excellence, making it a must-have for collectors and connoisseurs alike.
Process & Profile
The Appleton Estate 1999 Hearts Collection is crafted using 100% pot still distillation, a method renowned for producing rich and complex flavor profiles. Distilled in 1999 on a Forsyth pot still, this vintage rum was aged for 21 years entirely in ex-bourbon barrels under tropical conditions, resulting in intensified and concentrated flavors. Bottled at an impressive 63% ABV, this rum epitomizes the quality and depth of Appleton Estate's commitment to excellence. With a congener count of 855 g/100 LAA, it maintains a distinctive, robust character while offering a slightly lighter profile compared to its 1994 and 1995 counterparts.
Tasting Notes
Appearance: Dark mahogany with reddish-orange hues, signaling its two decades of tropical aging.
Nose: Opens with elegant notes of grilled pineapple, orange peel, toffee, and butterscotch. Subtle hints of floral perfume, almonds, and even a touch of paint thinner add to its aromatic complexity.
Palate: On the palate, layers of juicy pineapple, sour grapes, nutmeg, and black tea intertwine with a touch of gummy bears and butterscotch. Balanced by a subtle Appleton Estate funk, the flavors are vivid yet refined.
Finish: A medium-long finish characterized by tannins, fruity mango, bourbon oak, nutmeg, and a slight coffee bitterness brings the sipping experience to a satisfying close.
What Makes It Special
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Exclusive Vintage: As part of the legendary Hearts Collection, the 1999 vintage is a single marque rum, highlighting the unique qualities of Appleton Estate's pot still distillation.
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Collaboration of Masters: This rum is a result of the meticulous selection of Joy Spence and Luca Gargano, combining decades of expertise in creating a truly unparalleled spirit.
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Tropical Aging: Aged entirely in Jamaica's tropical climate, this rum showcases the hallmark intensity and richness associated with authentic Jamaican rums.
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Limited Release: With only 3,000 bottles, it is a rare offering that appeals to both collectors and seasoned rum enthusiasts.
How to Enjoy
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Neat: Experience the full complexity of this rum by sipping it neat in a tulip glass to concentrate its rich aromas.
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With a Splash of Water: A small amount of water can help open up the flavors, allowing deeper exploration of its intricate profile.
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In a Rum Tasting Flight: Compare it with its Hearts Collection siblings (1994 and 1995) to appreciate the nuances of each vintage.
The Appleton Estate 1999 Hearts Collection is more than just a rum—it's a liquid time capsule that captures the essence of Jamaica's rum-making tradition. Whether you're savoring it solo or sharing it with fellow enthusiasts, each sip is a celebration of craftsmanship and legacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions About Appleton Estate 1999 Hearts Collection Jamaican Rum
What is the Appleton Estate 1999 Hearts Collection?
This is a limited-edition, 100% pot still rum from Appleton Estate, part of their prestigious Hearts Collection. Distilled in 1999 using a Forsyth Pot Still, it was aged for 21 years in ex-bourbon barrels under tropical conditions in Jamaica, showcasing masterful aging and blending techniques.
What makes the Hearts Collection unique?
The Hearts Collection features single-mark vintage Jamaican rums that highlight Appleton Estate's expertise in pot still rum distillation. This collection is a collaboration between Joy Spence, the master blender at Appleton Estate, and Luca Gargano of Velier. It is the first time these exceptional vintage rums, which are typically used in blends, have been bottled individually.
What does the Appleton Estate 1999 Hearts Collection taste like?
The 1999 vintage offers a delightful array of flavors. You can expect notes of tropical fruits like pineapple and mango, along with orange, nutmeg, coffee, and a hint of butterscotch. The finish is medium-long, with woody spices, tannins, and a touch of bitterness.
What is the proof and ABV of this rum?
The Appleton Estate 1999 Hearts Collection is bottled at 63% ABV, delivering a bold and full-bodied experience while maintaining excellent balance and drinkability.
How does it differ from the other vintages in the Hearts Collection?
Compared to the 1994 and 1995 vintages, the 1999 Hearts Collection has a lighter and less complex profile, with a lower congener count of 855 g/hLAA. While it has a robust and fruity character, it avoids the high ester "funk" typical of some Jamaican rums, making it slightly more understated but still highly enjoyable.
How many bottles were produced?
Only 3,000 bottles of the Appleton Estate 1999 Hearts Collection were produced, making it a coveted item for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Is this rum suitable for sipping?
Absolutely. While it offers the bold, robust character of Jamaican rum, its aging and balance make it an excellent choice for sipping neat or with a splash of water to open up its complex flavors.
What is the price range for the Appleton Estate 1999 Hearts Collection?
Initially released at a retail price of around €220, its limited availability and high demand have caused prices to increase significantly in the secondary market.
Does the 1999 Hearts Collection have any connection to Appleton Estate's other lines?
This rum shares similarities with Appleton Estate's core lineup, such as their 21-Year-Old blend, but the higher proof and pot still distillation of the Hearts Collection provide a more intense and distinctive experience.
Who is behind the creation of this collection?
The Appleton Estate Hearts Collection is a result of the collaboration between Joy Spence, Appleton Estate's renowned master blender, and Luca Gargano, a leading figure in the rum world and founder of Velier.
