Mon | Jan 5, 2026

The experience of Joy

Published:Wednesday | April 5, 2017 | 2:29 PM
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FASHIONABLE DUO: Etoy Raymond (left) and Ka-El Clarke made a fashionable duo at the launch of Appleton Estate Joy Anniversary Blend at Hope Gardens on Sunday, April 3. Appleton Estate Joy Anniversary Blend, handcrafted by Joy Spence, was launched in celebration of her 20th Anniversary as Master Blender of the Appleton Estate Jamaica Rums portfolio. *** Local Caption *** Contributed PhotoThe fashionable duo of Etoy Raymond (left) and Ka-El Clarke made a fashionable duo at the launch of Appleton Estate Joy Anniversary Blend.
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From left: Clement ‘Jimmy’ Lawrence, chairman of J. Wray & Nephew Limited, Carmen Bartlett, Jean-Philippe Beyer, managing director of J. Wray & Nephew Limited, Joy Spence, master blender and Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett share lens.
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A picture of elegance-Wray and Nephew women from left: Tamika West, marketing manager for Dark Spirits, Alison Moss-Solomon brand public relations manager, Tannika White, brand manager for Appleton Estate.
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The woman of the hour, Master Blender Joy Spence enjoys a cocktail at the launch of Appleton Estate Joy Anniversary Blend at Hope Gardens last Sunday.
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CANDID MOMENT: Nari Chandiram, Bijoux Director (right) and his wife Carmen, engage in conversation with Michael Subrati, Managing Director of T. Geddes Grant Limited. The occasion was the launch of Appleton Estate Joy Anniversary Blend, handcrafted by Master Blender, Joy Spence, marking her 20th' Anniversary celebrating her achievement. The launch was held at Hope Gardens on Sunday, April 2. *** Local Caption *** Contributed PhotoNari Chandiram, director of Bijoux (right) and his wife Carmen, engage in conversation with Michael Subrati, managing director of T. Geddes Grant Limited.
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JOY IN THE GARDEN: Guy Dutton and Esme Loweth were present for the launch of Appleton Estate Joy Anniversary Blend at Hope Gardens on Sunday, April 2. The limited edition rare 25-year-old blend, handcrafted by Master Blender Joy Spence, was launched in celebration of her 20th Anniversary serving as Master Blender for the Appleton Estate Jamaica Rums portfolio. *** Local Caption *** Contributed PhotoGuy Dutton and Esme Loweth at the launch ofAppleton Estate Joy Anniversary Blendat Hope Gardens on Sunday.
Appleton Estate Joy Anniversary Blend.
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On Sunday, specially invited guests converged at the Sunken Garden at Hope Gardens, St Andrew for a special evening - to experience 'Joy'.

Appleton Estate declared 2017 'The year of Joy', to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the first female master blender - Joy Spence. Part of the festivities included the world famous rum launching the Joy 20th Anniversary Blend.

The evening's proceedings revolved around the remarkable woman. According to former managing director, William McConnell: "The opportunity to pay respect to such a remarkable person as Joy comes very infrequently. Not many people possess her rare qualities and passion. Joy is a rare person, a one of a kind."

This was supported by Wray & Nephew's chairman, Clement 'Jimmy' Lawrence, who noted that based on definition: "To have Joy is to experience delight, happiness, pleasure, elation, and felicity! Yes, this is what she brings to us!" He added: "It is difficult to find someone who wasn't better off for having encountered her in their lives."

Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett, who calls Spence a friend, thanked her for not only building this great brand, but for helping to bring worldwide recognition to Jamaica.

STRENGTH, PATIENCE, PASSION,

In between sips of an exquisite blend and delicious fare by Christian Sweeny, Spence revealed in her response that though she considers herself fearless, passionate and highly competitive. She was shaking in her boots when she was appointed master blender. "I sought assurance in my many conversations with God," she said. "I never could have imagined the journey that was ahead of me. As Harriet Tubman said: 'Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world'."