Appleton Estate, renowned as the oldest continuously operating rum distillery in Jamaica, has made headlines with its latest release: “The Source 51-Year-Old.” This exceptional rum is being hailed as the longest tropically aged rum ever released, marking a significant milestone in the world of spirits.
What Makes “The Source 51-Year-Old” Special?
Appleton Estate describes this release as its rarest and longest-aged expression to date, with only 25 exclusive heart-shaped decanters available for sale.
“Aged exclusively in Jamaica’s tropical climate for over five decades, The Source is a singular masterpiece of provenance and patience,” the distillery stated in a press release. This unique rum was crafted from Appleton Estate’s own single estate sugar cane, utilizing open fermentation and distilled in traditional copper pot stills.
Laid down on July 30, 1973, in the estate’s most iconic aging warehouse, the rum was initially overseen by Master Blender Owen Tulloch and later entrusted to his protégé, Dr. Joy Spence, the first female master blender in the spirits industry.
When Was the Rum Drawn?
The rum was drawn by Dr. Joy Spence in January 2025, symbolizing a culmination of decades of expertise and craftsmanship.
What Inspires the Name “The Source”?
The name of the rum pays tribute to the aquifer at the heart of Appleton Estate, honoring the spring that flows through limestone-filtered riverbeds used in producing Appleton rum.
What Is the Design of the Decanter Like?
Each of the 25 heart-shaped decanters beautifully showcases the rum’s rich mahogany color, transitioning into a crystalline aquamarine base that reflects the purity of the limestone spring. The decanter is topped with a handcrafted copper rendition of Jamaica’s national bird, the Doctor Bird, set against a navy backdrop. It is elegantly housed in a turquoise case adorned with a radial straw marquetry pattern inspired by pressed cane.
When Will “The Source” Be Available?
“The Source 51-Year-Old” will be available to select global markets starting July 2025, priced at an impressive US$70,000.
How Is Appleton Estate Celebrating This Release?
In celebration of this significant milestone, Appleton Estate is supporting the future of Jamaican art through a partnership with the Jamaica Art Society’s 2026-2027 In Focus Fellowship cohort. This sponsorship aims to provide opportunities for Jamaican artists while recognizing five decades of Jamaican art through co-branded dinners, fellowship sponsorship, and memorable experiences throughout 2026.
What Does Dr. Joy Spence Say About This Release?
Reflecting on her journey, Dr. Spence stated, “Tasting this beautiful expression with Owen over 40 years ago sparked my lifelong passion for the possibilities of aged rum. This release is a tribute to the artistry, dedication, and spirit of our people; from the hand-harvested cane and traditional distillation to the stewardship of our barrels across generations. Jamaica and rum are inseparable, much like the heart and soul captured in The Source.”
With “The Source 51-Year-Old,” Appleton Estate not only celebrates its rich heritage but also looks forward to the future of both rum and art in Jamaica.
