Deep in Jamaica’s lush Nassau Valley, something remarkable has been maturing in silence for over 50 years. Appleton Estate has now revealed The Source 51-Year-Old—the longest tropically aged rum ever released. This historic release of just 25 decanters marks a significant milestone for the 275-year-old distillery and sets a new standard of excellence for the category. With only 25 in existence and a price tag of $70,000, this is luxury rum in its purest, most uncompromising form.
Aged entirely in Jamaica’s tropical climate for over 50 years, The Source is a rare, single-marque rum born from Appleton Estate’s own sugar cane. Crafted through open fermentation and copper pot distillation, it was laid down in a single American oak cask on July 30, 1973. First overseen by Master Blender Owen Tulloch, its legacy was carried forward by his protégé, Dr. Joy Spence the first female Master Blender in the spirits world.
Tropical aging is a different game altogether. In Jamaica’s heat, rum draws flavor from the oak two to three times faster than in cooler climates—but that speed comes with risk. Few casks can withstand decades in such conditions. The Sourceis one of the rare exceptions, emerging after.
Fittingly, The Source is named after the natural aquifer beneath Appleton Estate—pure spring water that defines every drop of its rum and reflects the brand’s essence: purity, place, and purpose.
The decanter is a love letter to Jamaica: heart-shaped, fading from deep mahogany to aquamarine—echoing the estate’s limestone-filtered spring with a base that mimics the pristine waters of the estate’s natural spring. The stopper is a handcrafted copper sculpture of the Doctor Bird, Jamaica’s national symbol, perched against a midnight-blue backdrop. The turquoise case is adorned with straw marquetry inspired by pressed cane. It’s a collector’s dream and a tribute to the art of aging well. The case is a vibrant turquoise masterpiece, adorned with straw marquetry inspired by pressed cane—offering a full sensory experience even before the bottle is opened.
To celebrate this milestone, Appleton Estate is partnering with the Jamaica Art Society to support the 2026-2027 In Focus Fellowship cohort. This sponsorship will aid Jamaican artists and curators through dinners, fellowship funding, and special events—honoring five decades of Jamaican art and promoting the nation’s cultural legacy throughout 2026.
Appleton Estate Jamaica Rum offers premium aged expressions for every palate—from the 8 Year Old Reserve to the 21 Year Old Nassau Valley Casks, plus acclaimed limited editions like the 17 Year Old Legend and Hearts Collection.