MOUNT GAY LAUNCHES LIMITED EDITION COFFEY STILL EXPRESSION

A TRIBUTE TO LATE DISTILLER,REYNOLD ‘BLUES’ HINDS

Mount Gay yesterday launched the seventh limited edition in its Master Blender Collection – The Coffey Still Expression, Tribute to Blues. This bespoke blend is the first Coffey Still release by the Distillery since the Still was recommissioned in 2019 and is a tribute to Mount Gay’s late Barbadian distiller, Reynold ‘Blues’ Hinds.

Managing Director Antoine Couvreur said, “This release is not just a new expression. It is a heartfelt tribute to Blues, a beloved member of the Mount Gay family. He was a pivotal figure at Mount Gay during his 50-year career and his spirit and expertise continue to influence our craft.

“Additionally, as the world’s oldest running rum distillery, Mount Gay is passionate about the heritage of rum and this year’s Master Blender Collection offers a glimpse into how rum was made back in the 19th century when the Coffey Still was invented.

“It bridges the gap between history and modernity. As one of the first types of column stills invented, the distillery’s rare 100% copper Coffey Still operates as one of only three globally. In disrepair for decades, the Still was recommissioned in 2019 and this is the first time a distillation has been released since.”

Couvreur added that none of this would have been possible without the work of Blues, an icon in the field of distillation, “Blues worked at Mount Gay for over 50 years creating the liquid loved today and teaching the art of distillation to many. 

“It was his extensive knowledge that allowed engineers to restore the historic still and its recommission in 2019, which otherwise would have been lost. Today, it is called the Blue’s Still at Mount Gay in recognition of this hero. He contributed greatly to the craftsmanship of Mount Gay until his passing in 2021. This tribute is our way of preserving his legacy.”

Master Blender, Trudiann Branker, the creative force behind the release explained that crafting the Coffey Still Expression was a journey into the heart of Mount Gay’s history. She said, “Blues’ influence on the rums we all enjoy today is immeasurable. This release is a tribute not only to his legacy but to the craftsmanship that defines Mount Gay.

“In order to honour the historic distillation of the Coffey Still, this latest release is made using 100 percent local molasses. The single batch of copper Coffey Still rum was tropically aged at our St. Lucy distillery for four years in heavily charred ex-Bourbon casks, bringing out rich oak and honey notes. 

“The result is an incredibly floral and round rum. At first sight it has golden hues and as it opens, the nose is full of pear, vanilla, nutmeg and light leather aromas. The palate brings grapefruit, oak, honey and lightly spiced notes of cinnamon with layers of aromas that open up with every sip.”

The Mount Gay Coffey Still Expression is best enjoyed neat. The Master Blender Collection: The Coffey Still Expression is bottled at 58% ABV and is non-chill filtered in order to preserve its rich aromas and natural colour. This expression is limited to 5004 bottles and is available on island at the Mount Gay Distillery and Mount Gay Visitor Centre, and at select premium retailers throughout the world in 70 cl size.