Hampden - 4 years 2021 DOK Magnum Series n°3 60% Mise Velier
Founded in the mid- 18th century in Trelawny, Hampden Estate represents the pinnacle of the Jamaican school of rum, renowned for its long fermentations, the use of the dunder pot, and copper pot stills. This iconic distillery is recognized worldwide for its "heavy rums" with their explosive aromatic profiles, a true benchmark for connoisseurs of exceptional rum. Hampden produces historical marks, identifiable by their ester levels, a true signature of the house, ranging from the lightest to the most intense. The famous DOK (an acronym for Dermot Owen Kelly-Lawson) embodies the most extreme and rare expression, boasting between 1,500 and 1,600 grams of esters per hectoliter of pure alcohol, a record in the world of rum.
The 2021 edition, Velier's exclusive selection for the third Magnum Series, highlights the DOK mark after four years of full aging in a tropical climate, a guarantee of intensity and complexity for this cask-strength rum at 60% ABV. This prestigious series, released in limited quantities, celebrates the technical expertise of Habitation Velier and the artistic world of photographer Cristina de Middel, resulting in exceptional vintages with a distinctive style and personality, reserved for discerning connoisseurs and collectors.
On the nose, the Hampden DOK 2021 Magnum Series No. 3 opens with a burst of ripe tropical fruit—roasted pineapple, dried banana—enhanced by characteristic touches of green olive, fine solvent, and varnish, signs of a high ester concentration. Aeration reveals nuances of candied mango, orange marmalade, a hint of cocoa, and precise medicinal notes, creating a striking aromatic profile. On the palate, the powerful yet controlled attack embraces an oily texture, carrying intense aromas of exotic fruit, roasted sugarcane, and sweet spices. Salinity and zesty bitterness provide depth and structure, while the high ester energy intensifies the tactile profile. The spectacularly long finish lingers with molasses, cherry pit, resin, a touch of smoke, and a return of bitter orange that invites further exploration.
Tasting suggestions: Enjoy this great rum neat, after a few minutes of rest in a tulip glass to release all its nuances, or with a water stone to soften the alcohol without losing its aromatic richness. At the table, it pairs wonderfully with dishes with pronounced umami flavors: lacquered pork, lightly sweetened duck à l'orange, aged cheddar, and 24-month Comté cheese. As a finale, try it with a lightly sweetened dark chocolate fondant, a walnut tart, or roasted pineapple with spices. Lovers of medium-bodied cigars will also appreciate this pairing in a cross-tasting.
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