Very Old Vatted Old Monk Rum
Very Old Vatted Old Monk Rum is an iconic Indian dark rum, beloved for its smooth character, distinct vanilla notes, and rich molasses sweetness. It's a blended rum, aged for a minimum period (often 7 years for the standard variant labelled "Very Old Vatted"), offering a classic and affordable taste of Indian rum heritage.
Produced by Mohan Meakin Ltd. in Ghaziabad, India, Old Monk has been a staple since the mid-20th century (commonly cited as 1954). The term "Very Old Vatted" typically refers to their standard 7-year aged expression (Old Monk XXX Rum). "Vatted" signifies that the final product is a blend of rums matured in different oak casks, potentially of varying ages (all meeting the minimum age requirement). This process ensures consistency and complexity in the flavor profile batch after batch. While often associated with the 7-year variant, Old Monk also has premium expressions like 'Supreme' and 'Legend' which are also vatted but involve significantly longer aging (often 12 years or more) and are considered smoother and more complex. The rum is known for its dark colour, pronounced notes of vanilla, caramel, subtle spice, and an overall smooth, mellow finish that has garnered a loyal following worldwide despite minimal advertising.
Tasting Notes
Nose: Pronounced vanilla bean, caramel, molasses, hints of baking spices (like cinnamon or clove), maybe a touch of dried fruit or oak.
Palate: Smooth, quite sweet initially. Strong flavours of vanilla, dark caramel, butterscotch, molasses, and subtle oak spice. Some might detect hints of dark chocolate or coffee. Mouthfeel can be slightly oily.
Food Pairings
Spicy Indian dishes (curries, tandoori chicken, biryani).
Barbecued or grilled meats.
Dark chocolate or chocolate-based desserts.
Caramel puddings or desserts like Gulab Jamun.
Serving Suggestions
Neat: To appreciate its core flavours.
On the Rocks: Chilled, slightly diluted.
With Cola: The most popular mixer (Classic Rum & Coke).
With Water or Soda: To open up the flavours without adding sweetness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Interesting Facts
Launched around 1954 by Mohan Meakin Ltd., one of India's oldest distilleries (with roots going back to 1855).
Achieved massive popularity and global sales volumes primarily through word-of-mouth, with minimal traditional advertising.
The iconic, short, stout bottle is instantly recognizable. Premium versions like 'Supreme' come in monk-shaped bottles. 'The Legend' bottle is shaped like the head of H.G. Meakin, a founder associated with the company's origins.