The 2026 release of Hearts Collection 1999 revisits the acclaimed vintage first released in 2020, now aged 26 years and drawn from just 10 casks.

ST. ELIZABETH, Jamaica, Oct. 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Appleton Estate, a global leader in premium aged rums, is proud to announce the 2026 release of Hearts Collection 1999, now aged for 26 years. First released in 2020, this new vintage has spent five additional tropical years aging, adding new layers of depth and complexity to an already remarkable rum. Crafted in the heart of Nassau Valley by Master Blender Joy Spence in partnership with rum connoisseur Luca Gargano, this release celebrates the rarity and artistry of the Estate’s 100% pot-still rums. 

As the oldest continuously operating rum distillery in Jamaica, Appleton Estate is renowned for its extraordinary inventory of aged rums, and the Hearts Collection is an ode to that legacy. Each release begins with Master Blender Joy Spence selecting barrels from the nearly 200,000 casks aging in the estate’s legendary warehouses – one of the largest rum collections in the world. The 2026 Hearts Collection 1999 is a single proprietary marque distilled in a Forsyth Pot Still, bottled in 2025, reflecting the depth and character of the Estate’s reserves and Dr. Joy Spence’s unparalleled blending. 

“1999 has become more memorable,” said Dr. Joy Spence. “Returning to these casks revealed liquid of exceptional quality, that had only grown more delicious and complex with every passing year. We simply could not keep it to ourselves.”  

Hearts Collection 1999 personifies the exceptional quality and aging expertise of Appleton Estate. Subtle aromas of chocolate, coffee, and dried fruit rise on the nose, threaded with spicy, herbal, and floral notes. On the palate, the rum delivers an exceptionally smooth, long honeyed oak finish with a remarkable body and complexity that lingers long after the last sip. Drawn from just 10 casks, this highly limited expression joins Appleton Estate’s most coveted and collectable releases, and is perfect for sipping and savoring. 

The debut Hearts Collection vintages, named in tribute to the heart of Jamaica, were released in 2020 and were the first single-marque pot-still rums ever released by Appleton Estate. With each release produced in extremely limited quantities and sought after globally, Hearts Collection has become one of the most coveted series in premium rum. The 2026 release joins eight previous Hearts Collection expressions: 1994, 1995, 1999, 1984, 2003, 1993, 2002 and 1998. 

This October, Appleton Estate Hearts Collection 1999 is rolling out in select, premium US spirits retail outlets, with an SRP of approximately $500 USD. To receive exclusive updates and information about Appleton Estate and the Hearts Collection, including pre-sale information, fans can visit the brand’s website and sign up for the community newsletter. Appleton Estate encourages fans to enjoy responsibly. 

For more information visit: www.appletonestate.com and www.camparigroup.com. 

ABOUT APPLETON ESTATE
Appleton Estate, nestled in Jamaica’s lush Nassau Valley, is a beloved hidden gem in the world of spirits and boasts one of the most extensive collections of aging rum in the world. With over 275 years of history, it stands as the oldest continuously operating distillery in Jamaica.

Master Blender Joy Spence and her team of experts craft the world’s finest age statement rums by adhering to the highest standards of craftsmanship and excellence. Each rum is an expression of Appleton Estate’s distinct environment: its pristine, limestone-filtered water, a yeast strain handed down through generations, and warm, tropical climate. Strict aging & production standards also ensure that each bottle reflects the youngest drop of rum in the blend, with no added flavourings or sweeteners.

The Appleton Estate Jamaica Rum crafts premium aged offerings for every palate, from 8 Year Old Reserve to the 21 Year Old Nassau Valley Casks rum, and famed limited editions like the 17 Year Old Legend and Hearts Collection. Discover more about Appleton Estate Jamaica Rums at appletonestate.com. 

About Campari Group
Campari Group is a major player in the global spirits industry, with a portfolio of over 50 premium and super premium brands, spanning across aperitifs, including iconic brands like Aperol and Campari, agave spirits such as Espolòn tequila, whiskeys and rum with Wild Turkey and Appleton Estate, as well as cognac and champagne including Courvoisier and Grand Marnier. Founded in 1860, Campari Group is one of the fastest growing global spirits companies and the undisputed leader in the aperitif category. It has a global distribution reach, trading in over 190 nations around the world with leading positions in Europe and the Americas. Headquartered in Milan, Italy, Campari Group operates via 24 production sites worldwide and its own distribution network in 27 countries. Campari Group employs approximately 4,800 people. The shares of the parent company Davide Campari-Milano N.V. (Reuters CPRI.MI – Bloomberg CPR IM) have been listed on the Italian Stock Exchange since 2001. For more information: http://www.camparigroup.com/en. Please enjoy our brands responsibly.

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SOURCE Appleton Estate