Rare rum will go under the hammer for next 10 days

One of the world’s rarest rums is set to go under the hammer in an online rum auction being held by Perth-based Whisky Auctioneer.

The J. Wray & Nephew President’s Reserve commemorates the visit to Jamaica by US President Ronald Reagan in April 1982. Only 12 bottles were produced, one of which will feature in the exclusive rum auction.

Partly composed of rum laid down in 1906 from the famous Mona Estate in Jamaica, the bottle label bears the seal of the President of the United States. It is understood that two of the 12 bottles produced were presented to President Reagan with further bottles being gifted to dignitaries and industry professionals in attendance during the visit.

J. Wray & Nephew, a Jamaican distiller, blender and bottler, are also renowned for producing one of the world’s most expensive rums. Costing in the region of £40,000, the J. Wray & Nephew 17 Year Old was used to create the first-ever Mai Tai cocktail in the 1940s.

Iain McClune, director at Whisky Auctioneer, said: ‘The President’s Reserve is a very special bottle and the undoubted highlight of our inaugural rum auction. An exceptional rarity, which we will likely never see again on the open market.

‘The historical significance of the bottling should not be overlooked, this is a stunning blend of aged rum that includes liquid dating back to 1906. A more than fitting celebration of President Reagan’s momentous first and only visit to Jamaica.’

In respect of the company’s first rum auction, Iain said: ‘In recent years we have seen a significant rise in the number of rums in our regular monthly whisky and spirits auctions. With such a growth in demand we felt that it was about time we gave this incredible spirit the spotlight it deserves by holding a dedicated rum auction.’

The inaugural auction will feature a rich array of intriguing, rare and collectable rums including highly regarded independent bottlings, premium releases from Appleton, fascinating and unique examples from the early 20th century and an unusual opportunity to purchase a cask of rum produced by legendary closed distillery Caroni.

It offers both existing rum lovers and those new to rum a fantastic opportunity to explore this diverse and versatile spirit.

The auction goes live on Friday, 10 May, and will close on 20 May.

For more information on the auction or to register to participate visit www.whiskyauctioneer.com