Not everything that hits 50 is full of regrets…

Not ones for getting involved in nonsense like gnawing on celery and sweating needlessly in a Lycra tracksuit all in the name of a post-Christmas belly shed, we’d rather continue the start of this year as we left off 2012 – with a rapidly decreasing collection of the world’s finest drinks.

To mark Jamaica’s 50th anniversary of independence, Appleton Estate released just 800 bottles of the world’s oldest rum, 50 Year Old Jamaica Independence Reserve. A rare treat, this supremely smooth rum has notes of rich vanilla, cinnamon, maple and orange peel, ideal for leisurely (or heavy) sipping. If you miss it this time round, don’t worry. if you’re lucky enough to make it another 50 years, you might even get the chance to try their 100 year-old Appleton Estate Prime Ministers’ Reserve.

Even more scarce are the few remaining bottles of Bunnahabhain 40 Year Old whisky. Just 750 bottles of individually-numbered and hand signed un-chillfiltered, un-peated Islay single malt were released. Lost until Master Distiller Ian MacMillan rediscovered it in the distillery ledgers, this whisky will tempt you with a balance of honey, ginger chocolate and fruits on the palate with a pleasingly long finish with spicy, nutty notes.

Both serious collector’s items to savour or ravage at your will.