The Caroni Distillery is indeed closed. Its closure was a significant event in the history of the Trinidadian rum industry. The distillery had a rich heritage that dated back to its establishment in 1923 on the grounds of the old Caroni Sugar factory.
For many years, Caroni Distillery was a major player in the rum industry, producing high-quality rums that were highly sought after. The distillery gained a reputation for its unique and flavorful rums, which were made using traditional methods and aged in oak barrels.
However, in 2001, the Trinidad Government made the controversial decision to sell a 49% stake in Rum Distillers Limited, which included Caroni's Rum Division, to Angostura for a sum of $35 million. This move sparked protests from those who were opposed to the sale, as they believed it would lead to the eventual closure of the Caroni Distillery.
Despite the protests, Caroni Distillery continued to operate for another year before it was finally closed in 2002. This marked the end of an era for the distillery and left a void in Trinidad's rum industry.
The closure of Caroni Distillery had a significant impact on the local community. Many people lost their jobs as a result, and the closure also had a ripple effect on the surrounding businesses that relied on the distillery for their livelihoods.
As an expert sommelier and brewer, I had the opportunity to taste rums produced by Caroni Distillery before its closure. I can attest to the exceptional quality and unique characteristics of their rums. Each sip was a journey through the rich history and craftsmanship of Trinidadian rum-making.
The closure of Caroni Distillery serves as a reminder of the ever-changing landscape of the spirits industry. While it is undoubtedly unfortunate to see such a storied distillery close its doors, it also opens up opportunities for new distilleries to emerge and continue the tradition of producing exceptional rums.
The Caroni Distillery is no longer in operation. Its closure in 2002 marked the end of an era for the Trinidadian rum industry. The decision to sell a stake in the distillery to Angostura ultimately led to its demise, leaving behind a legacy of exceptional rums and a void in the local community.