Cubaney Aussie Launch

La Rumbla Imports brings the entire range of Cubaney Rums to the shores of Australia.

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La Rumbla Imports has brought a long-held dream to fruition this year by securing the sole Australian distribution rights of the award winning Cubaney Rum.

Justin Boseley travelled the world for ten years, stints in Europe and the Caribbean fostered a palate for the worlds’ finest rums.  The well-travelled reader may note a resemblance between Justin’s’ business name and one of Barcelona’s most vibrant streets….. for very good reason: As while one day, sipping on one of Venezuela’s finest in a Tapas bar facing La Rambla, he decided to utilise his knowledge and expertise to begin importing fine rums into Australia.

Enter La Rumbla; Justin’s newly incorporated importation business specialising in bringing boutique rums to Australia including the full line of Cubaney Dominican Rum. He has established an online store where rum lovers can read, review and order their favourite drop. Justin is also available via the website email to make arrangements to stock wholesalers or resellers.

LaRumbla Imports has warehousing and distribution channels set-up in Sydney to ensure quality customer service and prompt delivery times. Boseley has been working to get the line stocked in select bars and outlets around Australia. He is also actively sourcing other labels to provide rum enthusiasts with a wider choice in boutique rum.

“I’m looking forward to giving people a quality rum experience. First, rum was a passion for me, then an obsession, and now it’s my profession” Boseley says.

Imported from the Dominican Republic, Cubaney rum is ranked in the Top 10 rums in the region, winning internationally acclaimed gold medals on several occasions. Cubaney is produced by one of the most well-known rum making family’s (the Oliver’s)  who began producing rum in the early 19th century in Cuba; earning a place amongst the world’s best producers by the late 1860s. The Cuban revolution halted the family’s’ production and saw them flee far and wide across the world. It was not until the 1980s that the original formulas were discovered and the family began reproducing this fine rum with the help of Cuban Maestros Roneros in the Dominican Republic.

With a very impressive 10 aged bottles in the range to choose from, a 3 year Anejo Oro up to the gold medal Centenario, this will be sure to cater to everyone’s tastes.

Shots at Midnight

Promising to be the next “crowd pleasing drink ritual” Kahlua rolls out a rum & coffee shot called Midnight.

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Shots-in-a-bottle and ready-to-drink cocktails in a can have become the darlings of the corporate drinks industry in 2012.  To be honest,  having given up shots long ago and preferring hand crafted cocktails to anything pre-made, we’re not in favor of this trend. So when Kahlua recently launched their 70 proof rum and coffee concoction, we took notice but didn’t expect much.  Here’s what the folks at Kahlua are saying.

“Looking for the next great shot and drinking ritual to electrify the night?  The good news is that it’s always “midnight” somewhere, and all there is to do is chill, pour, and shoot. Guaranteed to inspire epic nightlife moments, Kahlua Midnight™, a 70 proof mix of rum and black coffee liqueur, makes its debut today in bars and retailers nationwide. This bold, yet slightly sweet creation is a delicious mixture of smooth rum mixed with strong black coffee. It is intended to be served chilled as a shot that can transform an otherwise unremarkable night into an unforgettable one. It embodies the spirit of the midnight hour, a time where a new day is dawning and possibilities seem endless.”

Hmmm, not sure how I feel about this product and will reserve judgement until I’ve given it a try.  Until then, I’ll stick with the Key West version of this drink.  Combine 2 ounces of freshly brewed Cuban coffee, 2 ounces of Brinley’s Coffee Rum and a splash of Cruzan Rum Cream.  Boom!  The perfect balance of caffeine, rum and flavor.

Cheers!

Are you a fan of cocktails-in-can or ready-to-drink shots?  Be sure to weigh in on this trend in the comments section.

Rumbullion!

Master of Malt announces the launch of Rumbullion! Navy-Strength from Professor Cornelius Ampleforth.

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Rumbullion! is a high quality Caribbean Rum infused with warming spices such as Cardamom, Cloves and Madagascan Vanilla. This release has been bottled at Navy-Strength (57% abv) to give it more impact on the palate and makes for a very warming drink.

The story goes that spirits carried aboard ships were bottled at “Navy-Strength“—a higher abv than normal—so that if they accidentally came into contact with gunpowder, the wet powder would still explode. However, as this test carried out by the Professor himself shows, while the powder may burn, it certainly wouldn’t explode. It is more likely that spirits were bottled at such a high abv to reduce the number of barrels needed on long voyages, and over-proof rum would last longer with a thirsty crew on board.

Rumbullion! Navy-Strength is handsomely packaged in crinkled brown paper with a black wax seal and is adorned with a hand-illustrated label which depicts a Naval grog tub and a Naval ‘White Ensign’ Flag.  It lends punch to cocktails and can be used in place of any spiced rum to add depth and character.

Nose: Incredibly intense. Buckets of vanilla combine with flamed orange zest. The cardamom makes itself known by offering up an evocative suggestion of old-fashioned cola, and to this the cloves bring out a deep, dark complexity. Yet more sweetness comes from the juicy, fresh cinnamon, which melds beautifully with a core of the essential oils of Seville orange peel.

Palate: An absolutely huge whack of high-proof spicy vanilla-laden complexity. Hints of Manuka honey and mouth-watering cinnamon form its heart, with molasses, candy floss, toffee apples, crème brûlée and clove-studded oranges.

Finish: An incredibly long finish, with a stunning degree of freshness as the cinnamon, orange and creamy, sweet vanilla coat the palate for minutes.

Overall: If there was ever going to be anything that could top the standard Rumbullion! this is it. The additional ABV will be a welcome boon to those used to cask-strength whiskies, and those who appreciate deep and intense flavours.

Rumbullion! Navy-Strength is 57%abv – £45.95. Now available from Master of Malt.

Dominican Club Launch

We reported on our sneak preview last week and now the launch of Dominican Club Rum is official.  Available in three styles, Añejo, Gold and Silver, the rums are distilled and bottled in the Dominican Republic by renowned rum producer J. Armando Bermudez & Co.  All of the rums feature exceptional taste and quality at an attractive, mid-premium price.

The lead variant in the Dominican Club range is the Añejo.  Handcrafted with great care using traditional distillation methods and aged 5 years in American bourbon oak barrels, the Añejo is a rich aged rum with toasty aromas of light toffee and hints of chocolate, honey and molasses.  As a testament to the brand’s exceptional taste, the Añejo received a rating of 89 points / Highly Recommended / Best Buy by the Beverage Testing Institute of Chicago. It is available in the 750ml and 1.75L sizes with suggested retail price of $14.99 on the 750ml and $24.99 on the 1.75L.

The range also includes Dominican Club Gold which is aged 2 years and mixes perfectly with cola and sodas and Dominican Club Silver which is aged 1 year and is ideal for tropical drinks or mixed with juices or diet cola.  Both the Gold and Silver are available in the 750ml size with a suggested retail price of $11.99.

The brand is being supported by a consumer campaign under the headline “Welcome to the Club”.  The campaign is heavily focused on generating consumer trial and includes an introductory $3 mail-in refund offer where legal.

Dominican Club is currently available in 17 states: Arizona, California, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Washington and Washington, D.C.

Introducing Shellback Rum

The taste of the Caribbean pursues a modern progression with the debut of Shellback Rum, a new premium brand for today’s contemporaries.

Named after a proud naval tradition conferring the title of “Shellback” to experienced sailors who have achieved the landmark triumph of crossing the equator, Shellback Rum celebrates achievement at its highest standards. Introducing a refined taste and sophisticated progression in rum, Shellback unites authentic Caribbean tradition with a thoughtful regard for delivering a memorable, full-flavored, “Rum Found Worthy.”

Available in two expressions, Silver and Spiced, Shellback is produced at the century-old West Indies Rum Distillery (WIRD) on the island of Barbados, the birthplace of rum.  Shellback Silver features floral overtones layered with the suggestion of vanilla and tropical fruit, followed by a smooth, clean finish. Shellback Spiced has no added sugar and features a combination of all natural spices from around the world including: cinnamon bark oil from Sri Lankaand Ceylon; ginger oil from China and Africa; clove oil from Madagascar and India; nutmeg from Indonesia; cassia from Vietnam and China; vanilla from Madagascar and allspice from the Caribbean.

Both expressions are a blend of continuous and pot still components featuring neutral, heavy and aged light rum. Adding further depth to the final Shellback Spiced blend, the aged light rum spends a minimum of 12 months in once-used American bourbon barrels resulting in a smooth, clean taste layered with notes of caramelized honey, dark roast and brown spice.

“In a category that has grown for 10+ consecutive years, particularly in the premium rum segment, Shellback Rum is poised to establish a defined position within the premium category,” said Gerard Thoukis, Senior Director of Marketing, Shellback. “In partnership with WIRD’s extensive expertise and library of flavors, Shellback Rum delivers the fresh flavors and smooth, clean taste that today’s modern consumer is looking for without the burn or harsh finish. [It] has a distinct profile that we feel is unmatched in the current premium rum space and we are thrilled to be a part of the potential of such an exciting category.”

Shellback is now available in select retail outlets in the following 30 states: AL, AZ, CA, DE, FL, GA, HI, IA, ID, IL , KY, MA, MD, MD, ME, MI, MN, MT, NC, ND, NH, NJ, NV, OH, OR, PA, TX, UT, VT, WA.

SRP: $17
ABV: 40%

For more information, visit www.shellbackrum.com.

Introducing Ron Miel

Copa Spirits Co. proudly announces the arrival and launch of the first “Ron Miel de Canarias” to be distributed in America. Ron Miel is a centuries old tradition of blending aged rum and honey in the Canary Islands, Spain. It carries a Designation of Origin to assure traditional methods of production and quality. Distillery Arehucas, founded 1884, began its Ron Miel production 70 years ago with current sales exceeding 1.5 million liters annually.

Arehucas, well known in Europe to produce world class rums, is a fourth generation family-owned distillery. They are the official noble supplier of the Spanish Royal Family and have a remarkable 50% market share of all rum sales in the Canaries, which hosts 12 million visitors a year.

Jason Montgomery, president of Copa Spirits Co. and sole importer of Arehucas rum says, “The Canary Islands have an incredible history as related to sugar cane and rum production. All four voyages of Christopher Columbus departed from the Canary Islands to the New World. On his second voyage Columbus carried sugar cane from the Canaries which was planted in Hispaniola and became our modern day Caribbean stock.”

US launch markets (and wholesale distributors) for Ron Miel honey rum include: California (Wine Warehouse), Florida (Royal Beverage), Georgia (Quality Wine & Spirits), Illinois (Carbon Beverage), Louisiana (Glazer’s), Michigan (General Wine & Liquor Co.), Minnesota (Paustis Wine Co.), Mississippi (Glazer’s), Montana (Montana Liquor Control Division), New York (Oak Beverage), Ohio (Heidelberg), Tennessee (Omni Beverage), and Wisconsin (Badger Liquor Co).

Ron Miel honey rum is now available at over 210 locations, among them Astor Wines & Spirits, Binny’s Beverage Depot, Conch Republic Key West, Tavern 99, Borgne Restaurant, Hi-Time Wine Cellars, and Smuggler’s Cove. Ron Miel honey rum is best enjoyed chilled and retails for approximately $27.99 per 1 liter bottle.

R. St Barth Expands

After a single year of limited distribution, the new line of agricole from R. St Barth is making waves around the world.  Here’s more about this hot new brand.

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NEW PRODUCT ALERT: This is one to watch!

R. St Barth is a new boutique producer of fine spirits that launched a line of high-end agricoles in March of last year.  Their range consists of 3 varieties of rhum, a blanc, 4-year old and a limited edition12-year. 

Launching in March of 2011, R. St Barth was nominated for Best New Boutique Rum at the Golden Rum Barrel Awards in London and was a finalist at the Ultimate Spirits Challenge, scoring 92 points out of 100 from a blind tasting panel of spirits experts.

Due to the limited natural water resources on their namesake home island, R. St Barth is made according to age-old traditions on Guadeloupe, some 80 miles away. The island is renowned for its top quality authentic rhum agricole, made from 100% sugarcane juice. The humid volcanic terrain, bathed in sunshine, forms the perfect cradle for the cane which is grown in a fully sustainable environment, and the island’s natural volcanic spring water complements the rum perfectly. 

The busy sugarcane season lasts from February through July. The cane is at its richest and finest between March and April and during this period it is harvested just before flowering. They lend R. St Barth its finesse and exceptional taste. 

The sugarcane is mostly cut by hand to conserve its purity and taste, and once cut, it is first crushed or ‘prepared’ by breaking open the cane fibers to facilitate juice extraction. It is then pressed and the resulting vesou (juice) is carefully filtered and then put into open fermentation vats.  Fermentation takes place in the open air, and in the warmth and humidity, begins just an hour after the sugarcane has been pressed. The juice contains natural yeasts which convert the sugar in the juice into alcohol.

After fermentation, the wine (or grappe), which is 4-6% alcohol by volume, is distilled in a special column that heats the wine indirectly using a coil exchanger to separate the alcohol from the wine. The alcohol vaporizes at 78°C (172°F) to 92°C (198°F).  The alcohol vapors are collected and condensed to create rum.

When it leaves the column, the R. St Barth rhum agricole is pure, crystal clear and very aromatic. It is 60 to 70% alcohol by volume. It is stored for a year in stainless steel vats, and the alcohol content is gradually brought down to 50% by adding naturally purified water. During this period, controlled aeration and evaporation of aromatic compounds also takes place, as does the careful blending of different distillations.

The rhum is bottled, then shipped to the flagship boutique in St Barth where each bottle is hand finished and packaged, then shipped to the world.

In year 1 of operation, R. St Barth has gained full distribution across France, launched into the Scandinavian market, and has also secured importing and distribution in the US. The next focus markets are the UK, China, Germany, India and Russia.

The entire range produces only 30,000 bottles per year. The blanc is limited to 23,000 bottles, the 4-year old ambre is limited to 5,000 bottles, and the 12-year hors d’age is limited to 2,000 individually numbered bottles.

With a big push for expanded distribution in 2012, R. St Barth should be landing on the shelves of a spirits shop near you.  Keep an eye out for this hot new product.  Cheers!

Introducing flipflop Rum

flipflop, known for its award-winning, expressive wines and laid back attitude, is now in great spirits … introducing a super-premium line of rums. 

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Launching in Silver and Spiced, the inaugural offerings from flipflop Rum will hit the shelves later this month. Originating from the Caribbean, the birthplace of the world’s finest rums, flipflop Silver Rum is 4x distilled, resulting in the 80-proof rum’s clean flavor and crisp finish. Spices and natural flavors are added to flipflop Silver Rum, creating the rich, smooth taste of 70-proof flipflop Spiced Rum.

“Known by many as a spirit that embodies the relaxed Caribbean lifestyle, rum is a large and growing spirits segment and a logical next step in flipflop’s evolution. In line with the brand’s ‘to each, their own’ philosophy, flipflop has created a premium rum at an outstanding value that is both expressive, approachable and spirited, all attributes we find not only in our rum, but also in our loyal fans,” said Jeff Dubiel, EVP of Marketing for flipflop.

Master Mixologist and leading spirits authority James Moreland joined the flipflop team when he learned that flipflop would be creating a rum that was both rich and affordable. Tasting some of the very first samples available, Moreland recognized early on that flipflop had created something unique.

“flipflop Wines has become one of the fastest growing brands in the market for good reason.  flipflop has mastered a perfect pairing, making great products entirely accessible and enjoyable for all,” said Moreland. “The flipflop Silver and Spiced rums are no exception. Smooth and easy to drink, the Spiced Rum ends with a subtle but lingering finish of cinnamon and vanilla – making it both ideal on the rocks or as a base for great mixed drinks.”

Moreland has been quick to put his skills to use and create some recipes with the new rums, including the highly regarded “flipflop Soul,” available on the flipflop rum website

With the extension into rum, flipflop expands its charitable collaboration with Soles4Souls.  Proceeds from the sale of flipflop rums will support this not-for-profit organization that facilitates the donation of shoes, which are used to aid those in need in communities around the world. flipflop will kick off its rum launch with several events aimed at raising additional funds and increasing awareness for this important charity.

“Beyond flipflop wines’ generous donations to date, they have expanded Soles4Souls’ reach to new heights,” said Wayne Elsey, founder and CEO of Soles4Souls. “We are thrilled with flipflop’s success and look forward to their continued support of our endeavors.”

Both Silver and Spiced Rum are available in 750ml (SRP $13.99) and 1.75L (SRP $22.99) bottles.

Product is currently shipping to select markets.  For more information about flipflop rum, including “flippin’ Easy Drinks” visit www.flipfloprum.com and www.facebook.com/flipfloprum.

The Making of Vintage MMXII

With only 200 bottles of Bacardi Vintage MMXII hitting the market, it’s become an instant collectors item.  Here’s what sets this rare rum apart from the others. 

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Proud Family Expertise with Ron Bacardi, de Maestros de Ron, Vintage, MMXII

“We have gathered the most experienced master blenders of Bacardi and made a unique rum for our 150th anniversary. We concentrated our efforts to make a blend that has never been made before, from the best rum vintages from the last twenty years,” said Manuel Jorge Cutillas, Bacardi Family Master Blender, and great-great grandson of the founder. Mr. Cutillas also previously served as chairman of Bacardi.

“We had the privilege of working with some incredible stocks of aged rum. We were looking for woody notes and fruity notes. We were looking for the balance and equilibrium that makes a great rum. The depth of flavor and character that this rum has is incredibly unique,” added Guillermo Garcia Lay, Bacardi Family Master Blender.

“I had an idea of what this rum should be and so did the other master blenders, so we tried to come up with one single Bacardi rum that would be good for all of us. And I think that if it is good for us, I think it will be good for everybody,” stated Emilio Bacardí Bravo, Bacardi Family Master Blender.

“I’m very proud to have been a member of this family and I’m very proud of what I have done. It’s the only thing I know and I haven’t done anything else, just make rum, since I left Cuba. Being here for the 150th and making this rum, I feel proud of that. It’s an honor,” said Joaquín Bacardí Bolivar, Bacardi Family Master Blender.

“It’s incredible, the friendship, the union, the ability to laugh together, the camaraderie, it’s always been like that. These are my old friends, my family, my cousins; it was a beautiful opportunity,” added Jorge Del Rosal Covani, Bacardi Family Master Blender.

A Unique Taste

The BACARDI MMXII Vintage is a highly aromatic, full-bodied and generous rum with a mellow flavor. It has an expansive nose full of fresh tropical fruits and sweet floral aromas, balanced with soft vanilla and a smooth oaken character. Its inviting aromatic qualities are enriched with notes of sweet Caribbean honey and fragrant fruits leading to a long, pleasing finish with a smooth background of oak. The Bacardi MMXIIVintage is 43% ABV / 86º Proof.

“We created the taste profile that we wanted, something different from the very best vintages that we had in our barrels,” said Totén Comas Bacardí, Bacardi Family Master Blender.

“We have created a new rum that brings the very best of all our experiences into one BACARDI rum that will help us to remember and celebrate Don Facundo and the generations and generations of blenders that came before us, and to carry on their legacy,” added Facundo Bacardí Bravo, Bacardi Family Master Blender.

Seed of the Future

The hand-blown crystal decanter represents the coconut palm planted at the entrance of the first Bacardi distillery in Santiago de Cuba by Don Facundo’s son 150 years ago. Known as ‘El Coco,’ this coconut palm tree became a symbol of the Bacardí family’s heritage and Cuban roots. This decanter embodies a new seed for the spirit of the next 150 years.

Coordinates

Etched onto the crystal decanter, next to the hand-pressed red crystal bat device, are the coordinates of 20 01 48.69N 075 49 56.86W that mark the birth place of Bacardi rum in Santiago de Cuba. This is the location of the first Bacardi rum distillery, where the founder’s son planted the original ‘El Coco’ and where the story began 150 years ago. The decanter also features a map of the Caribbean pointing to the original home of ‘El Coco’ and the Bacardí family.

Availability

Each hand-blown 500ml crystal decanter, housed in a finely detailed leather case, retails for US$2,000. Truly limited, only about 200 decanters are available at select international airport duty-free stores and premium retail establishments around the world.

[youtube width=”700″ height=”400″]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qhvo97XKpyg[/youtube]

Rare Bacardi Rum Launched

Bacardi celebrates their 150th business anniversary by launching a new $2000 limited edition bottling called Maestros de Ron, Vintage MMXII.

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To commemorate the rum-making standards achieved by Bacardi 150 years ago, family-owned Bacardi Limited announces a first—the rarest Bacardi rum ever released, as a celebration of the expertise and craftsmanship in every bottle.

An unprecedented number of Maestros de Ron Bacardi (Master Blenders), eight in total and each a Bacardí family member, have combined their talents to create a very special and rare limited edition rum, de Maestros de Ron, Vintage, MMXII. A blend of the finest Bacardi rums laid to rest in oak barrels over the past 20 years and finished in 60-year-old Cognac barrels, this vintage blend is presented in a hand-blown crystal decanter.

The masterful art commemorated by the release of this exquisite vintage rum was perfected by Bacardi founder Don Facundo Bacardí Massó—the original Maestro de Ron—in Santiago de Cuba in 1862. “Don Facundo forever changed the spirits world by creating Bacardi Superior Rum, the most mixable of all Bacardi rums, introducing steps and setting the standards in rum-making,” said Manny Oliver, Global Master Blender. “This defined premium clear rum—what the world now knows as rum.”

“He used these same techniques in creating his dark rums, as well. These steps have been handed down through 15 generations of hand-selected Bacardi Master Blenders and used today to create the Bacardi portfolio of fine rums,” said Joe Gomez, Puerto Rico Master Blender.

“Our family honors the 150-year legacy of my great-great grandfather and Bacardi founder Don Facundo Bacardí Massó every day by continuing to create and blend our rums the same artful and masterful way he did in 1862,” said Facundo L. Bacardi, Chairman of Bacardi Limited and fifth generation Bacardí family member. “Bacardi rum is not only the world’s favorite and best-selling rum; it is also the world’s most awarded rum, winning more than 400 awards for taste, quality and innovation.”

Before 1862, the rum of the time was crude, harsh and unpalatable to the emerging Cuban middle-class who were used to drinking fine wines and Cognacs. Don Facundo set out to create a spirit more refined and comparable to the finest Cognacs of the time.

After years of experimentation, he pioneered and developed seven rum-making standards:

  1. Superior Ingredients: Only used high quality sugarcane molasses, which is vital to the Bacardi taste profile.
  2. Control Fermentation with Special Yeast: He isolated a special strain of yeast (known as the Bacardi Levadura) for controlled fermentation and flavor consistency every time. This same proprietary strain of yeast is still used today. During fermentation, yeast turns the sugar in the molasses into alcohol. Without the Bacardi yeast, the unique taste of Bacardi rums would be impossible to replicate.
  3. Parallel Distillation: He utilized a parallel process model to distill two different distillates—a heavy-bodied rum spirit that forms the robust taste and character and a light-bodied spirit that delivers the distinctive smoothness.
  4. Charcoal Filtration: He charcoal filtered his rums multiple times to refine and purify the taste and provide greater consistency and quality in each bottle of BACARDI rum. The exact mix of natural wood charcoals and their application in the process are secrets of the Bacardi Master Blenders.
  5. Purposeful Mellowing: He mellowed his rums in hand-selected, toasted American white oak barrels to deliver a smooth taste and specific flavor.
  6. Second Filtration: He charcoal filtered many of the mellowed rums again for optimum consistency and smoothness.
  7. Blending: He took blending to an art form, blending his rums to match the unique and perfect taste of BACARDI rum.

Tune in tomorrow for more about the making of Bacardi Vintage MMXII.

New Rums from Cuba

Look out Havana Club!  There’s another Cuban rum positioning itself for a larger piece of the export rum pie.  Ron Santiago de Cuba expands their line.

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To increase their exporting assortment, the spirits firm Ron Santiago de Cuba announced that it will roll out a new line of light and dark rums within the next few months.

Juan Gonzalez, president of Cuba Ron SA, a trading company in charge of commercializing Cuban spirits, said the launch will mark the 150th anniversary of light rum making on the island.  The new line of rums will be distilled in the age-old traditional methods that have made their style of spirits a commodity worldwide among liquor enthusiasts and collectors.

Rum Master Tranquilino Placencia praised the uniqueness of the new line which utilizes an exclusive family formula they’ve kept secret since the first light rums were distilled in Santiago de Cuba back in 1862.

Tano, as the Rum Master is nicknamed, said they have stored thousands of barrels of 25 year old rum which will allow them to produce a remarkable blend from some of the brands eldest stock.

Cuba Ron SA showed some growth in its 2011 exports despite the economic crisis battering Europe, the main market for its products.  The future of the brand, with the addition of several new rums to their line, looks very promising.  They have slowly grown exports to the Middle East and Asia over the last several years and plan to continue that push.  Keep an eye out for their next release, the Extra Dark Age, on liquor shop shelves in Europe within the coming months.

Dark ‘n Stormy In A Can

Another ready-to-drink cocktail is set to hit the market.  Gosling’s plans to launch their canned Dark ‘n Stormy in select cities this month.

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The national drink of Bermuda is coming to American shores ready to drink, in a stylish new 8.4 oz./250 ml can. A deliciously refreshing blend of Gosling’s Black Seal Rum and Gosling’s Stormy Ginger Beer, this is the authentic Dark ‘n Stormy cocktail created to be enjoyed directly out of the can.

“It’s the perfect addition to our family of products,” explained Malcolm Gosling, 7th generation President/CEO of the renowned Bermuda rum maker. “This is the perfect Dark ‘n Stormy delivered in a slender can with compelling graphics: making it appealing to the younger, trendsetting consumer. Additionally, the ready-to-drink Dark ‘n Stormy is also a convenient package for people on the go.”  

First introduced to the most demanding Dark n’ Stormy connoisseurs in the world—Bermudians—the ready-to-drink product was an instant hit. “It was encouraging to hear my fellow Bermudians say that this tastes like a perfectly made Dark ‘n Stormy. Sales on the island have been strong.”

Here in the U.S., the Dark ‘n Stormy cocktail has gained rapid popularity and the new canned version will accelerate that trend. The new drink comes in attractive 4-packs of 8.4 oz./250 ml cans and is 9% alcohol by volume (18 US Proof).

Gosling’s plans to launch this new ready to drink canned product in a few select markets/geographical areas with additional markets being added as the product rolls out toward eventual national distribution.

Gosling’s Brothers Ltd. Is Bermuda’s oldest business house. In 1806, Englishman William Gosling, sent his son James to sea, bound for Virginia with 10,000 pounds Sterling worth of wines and spirits. After ninety days on becalmed seas the charter on the good ship, Mercury, ran out and James was diverted to Bermuda, where James decided to open a wine and spirits shop.

Since 2004, seventh generation, E. Malcolm B. Gosling has been spearheading a major American expansion of the brand. Gosling’s offers three distinctive, award-winning products in its line: the flagship brand, Gosling’s Bermuda Black Seal Rum, Gosling’s Gold Bermuda Rum, and the ultra special Family Reserve Old Rum. 

SX Expands

Those unusual looking bottles of rum and cachaca are flying off the shelves!! SXLiquors is set for a major national and international expansion. Here’s more.

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SXLiquors, a unique startup company headquartered in Fort Lauderdale and launched in Miami, is expanding rapidly across Florida and plans to enter additional states and select international markets in the coming months.  The company this week dramatically expanded its footprint from 80 leading restaurants, nightclubs and liquor stores in South Florida to nearly 1,000 such distribution points all across the state. 

SXLiquors, which launched in June 2011, did so well in the limited South Florida market in which it was tested that Miami-based Southern Wine and Spirits fast-tracked the brand for mass distribution throughout the state.  Within the past two weeks, SXLiquors was rolled out in Tampa, Jacksonville, Miami and Orlando.

The trio of SXLiquors’ first spirits (a mint and lemon rum dubbed SXcalypso, a sweet lime and vanilla cachaca-style rum called SXsamba and a groundbreaking and award-winning honey and lemon infused tequila called SXchachacha) are now available on store shelves.  A range of additional products has already been developed, but not yet introduced.

Presented in head-turning bottles, SXLiquors’ spirits provide unforgettable taste and uncompromising quality. 

“I am 100 percent certain that 2012 will be a breakout year for our company,” said SXLiquors CEO David Knight.  “Strong sales in South Florida and the tremendous buzz that SXLiquors has generated show that our products resonate with consumers attracted to our unique brand of Miami cool and Latin sensuality.  The SX team and I are on a mission to make the world sexier, one sip at a time.”

SXLiquors will showcase its products Feb. 23-26 at The Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival in Miami Beach.  The company is unveiling its new products and other surprises at The Nightclub & Bar Convention and Trade Show in Las VegasMarch 12-14, 2012. 

Learn more at the SX website, become a fan on the SXFacebook page and follow SX on Twitter.

Introducing Louisiana Spirits

The micro-distilling scene in Louisiana is about to get another player.  Louisiana Spirits LLC is set to have their rum distillery in operation by this coming summer.

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Louisiana Spirits LLC is building a new state of the art distillery to create world-class rum crafted with Louisiana sugar cane in Lacassine, La. Construction is underway on the 18,000 square foot facility which will house the full distillery, barrel storage, bottling line and offices.   It will also include a gift shop and a viewing room that explores the state’s historic role as a sugar cane producer and rum distiller with memorabilia and curated exhibits.  Louisiana Spirits is gearing up to offer its first rum in 2012.

“Our vision for a world class rum distillery in Louisiana is a natural fit for the Lacassine area.  Our Louisiana rum will represent the best the state has to offer in the way of local sugar cane, molasses and raw sugar. We’re committed to delivering products that honor Cajun heritage and are worthy of the ‘Made in Louisiana label,” said Trey Litel, President of Louisiana Spirits LLC. 

“The growth of artisan distilling in the USA has been inspiring, and so has the trend toward local ‘farm to table’ products made in the USA. We plan to do that here. We believe Louisiana enthusiasts and consumers will recognize and switch to an authentic Louisiana rum now that they have a worthy choice,” Litel adds.     

The local Jeff Davis Parish Economic Development and Tourist Commission office has supported the project since site selection by providing legislative and program support. “Louisiana Spirits is important to the economic engine of Jeff Davis Parish providing a new tourist attraction and adding value to area agriculture products,” said Marion Fox, Executive Director of Jeff Davis Economic Development, Tourist, and Film Commissions.  “The owners are sincere, experienced entrepreneurs and marketers who wisely chose Jeff Davis Parish as the location of this new venture, and our team strongly supports their new distillery!”

Tim Litel, Skip Cortese, and Trey Litel founded Louisiana Spirits in May 2011. The Litel brothers are from the Lake Charles area and have teamed with Skip Cortese of Baton Rouge for the venture. “The idea came out of a duck blind conversation near the Lacassine Wildlife Refuge and some sugar cane fields. So, it was natural to select our site near the sugar mill at Lacassine,” said Tim Litel. “We could not be happier with the local government’s reception and support from LED, and we look forward to getting the distillery up and running.”   

“We have visited many distilleries in other states, but they do not have the fascinating history of the Louisiana sugar cane industry to work with. We plan to celebrate that history with our distillery and our rum. We have researched the origins of rum and its introduction in Louisiana,” said Skip Cortese. “In Spanish Colonial Louisiana, around 1770, a settler named Manuel Solís built a rum distillery and a small mill to grind cane. Rum was produced in Louisiana even before Étienne Bore perfected sugar production! This practice continued in most plantation sugar houses until the Civil War. We thought with abundant sugar cane fields in south Louisiana; why not revive rum distilling here today?”

With Louisiana being the fourth largest producer of sugar cane in the United States, there is a big opportunity here for the state to shine and add its unique value to the spirit. 

For more information, visit www.laspirits.net.

New Product Alert!

We get a sneak preview of another new ultra-premium sipper from Costa Rica’s Ron Centenario.  This 25 year old solera rum is due out in April.  Read on…

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Frequently spending lazy afternoons on my regular stool at the Rum Bar in Key West provides me with plenty of opportunities to sample rare and interesting rums.  This time around our friend George from International Wine and Spirits dropped by with a new super-premium rum from Costa Rica, Ron Centenario 25 Años Gran Reserve.  This high-grade sipper won’t be available in the US until April, but you should put it on your wish list now because it’s going to be a huge hit.  Like much of the Centenario line of rums, the 25 Años selection is rich, well-balanced, sweet and will be reasonably priced near $65.  Here’s more.

Category: Premium Aged Rum

Country of origin: Costa Rica

Alcohol content: 40%

Product Description: A sweet, rich and elegant 25 year old Costa Rican solera rum.  Gold medal winner at the Berlin Rum Festival.

Aroma: Tropical fruits, molasses, tobacco and oak.

Taste: Sweet and smooth.  Vanilla, sweet fruits, delicate notes of wood and citrus.

Mode of consumption:  Centenario 25 Años should be enjoyed neat or with an ice cube.

Selling rationale:  Centenario 25 is for the fine spirits enthusiast who seeks the highest quality rum on the market.  This rum provides full harmony of aromas and flavors that highlight the technique and skill level of the producer.

Presentation:  A heavy 750ml bottle with embossed brand name, wooden cork and transparent label that highlights the amber color of the rum inside.

US release date: April 2012

Rumbullion! Launch

Master of Malt announces the release of Professor Cornelius Ampleforth’s Rumbullion!, a hearty spiced rum, inspired by old-fashioned maritime rums.

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Master of Malt are proud to announce the UK release of an intensely spiced, old-fashioned rum from Professor Cornelius Ampleforth. Rumbullion! is one of the most cockle-warming spiced rums on the market.

Based on a blend of fine, high proof Caribbean rum, Rumbullion! is made using luxuriously creamy, sweet Madagascan vanilla, and a generous handful of zesty orange rind. Finally, fresh cinnamon and cloves are added, and just a hint of cardamom.

The recipe was loosely based on old-fashioned spiced maritime rums, with a huge level of heart-warming spiciness. The result is a rich, full-bodied spiced rum that harkens back many years to the days of pirates and merchant men.

Each bottle is wrapped in crinkled brown paper, featuring a print of a hand-drawn illustration depicting an old naval grog tub, bearing the words “The Queen, God Bless Her”. The bottle necks are wrapped with twine, and finally each bottle is individually dipped in black sealing wax.

Superb when served neat, Rumbullion! also works brilliantly with a squeeze of fresh lime, or as a long drink with old-fashioned cola and plenty of ice.

You can buy Rumbullion! from Master of Malt for £32.95.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: A fabulously decadent nose of intense, sweet vanilla and flamed orange zest. The cardamom makes itself known by offering up an evocative suggestion of old-fashioned cola, and to this the cloves bring out a deep, dark complexity. Yet more sweetness comes from the juicy, fresh cinnamon, which melds beautifully with a core of the essential oils of Seville orange peel.

Palate: At once a fabulous mix of thick cut bitter orange marmalade and tingling, zinging spices. Hints of Manuka honey and mouth-watering cinnamon form its heart, with molasses, candy floss, toffee apples, crème brûlée and clove-studded oranges.

Finish: A long finish, with tongue-prickling spices, and a stunning degree of freshness as the cinnamon, orange and creamy, sweet vanilla coat the palate for minutes.

Overall: Rich and profoundly intense, this is a rum to see you through the coldest months.

New Rums from Plantation

Two new rums from Plantation hit the UK.  Trinidad 1999 Banyuls Finish and Barbados 5 Yr Old Pineau des Charentes Finish have been released in ltd. editions. 
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Bibendum has launched two limited edition Plantation Rums exclusively to the UK market. The new single cask bottlings see two of Plantation’s finest rums finished in the casks of Pineau des Charentes and Banyuls.

Bibendum Spirits Brand Manager Paul McFadyen worked very closely with Plantation’s owner, Cognac Ferrand, to create these outstanding rums. Cognac Ferrand President Alexandre Ferrand selected one Bajan and one Trinidadian rum, transporting them to France where the spirits were aged in ex-cognac barrels prior to being finished in the Pineau des Charentes and Banyuls casks.

The Pineau des Charentes cask imparts a freshness and brightness to the Bajan rum, while the sweet, Port-like Banyuls creates a wonderfully deep, opulent Trinidadian rum.

Ferrand said: “Pineau des Charentes and Banyuls both have incredible flavours that are very compatible with rum; they complement the spirit beautifully. We use fresh Pineau des Charentes and Banyuls casks and typically finish the rum for six months to a year, followed by some fine tuning in our Ferrand Cognac casks to complete the ageing process.”

McFadyen, said: “Cask finishing is an age old tradition in rum and one that works fantastically well, creating wonderful new flavours for consumers to discover. This was an incredibly exciting project that brought together brilliant distillers from both France and the Caribbean and we have already seen phenomenal interest from bartenders in the UK. I only wish we had more bottles to go around.”

Only 450 bottles of the Trinidad 1999 Banyuls Finish (RRP £54.99) have been produced. The Barbados 5 Year Old Pineau des Charentes Finish (RRP £49.99) is even rarer with only 350 bottles being released. Each of the bottles is numbered and carries the personal endorsement of Alexandre Ferrand. 

Bibendum Managing Director Michael Saunders, said “Our whole approach to spirits at Bibendum is to focus on high quality, boutique products that offer our customers exceptional value for money. Products such as these new rums are a wonderful addition to our range and the perfect complement to the wines we sell to the premium on trade.”

Both limited edition rums are available to the UK on-trade and independent retailers via Bibendum Wine Ltd.

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Bottle image courtesy of Pete Holland – TheFloatingRumShack.com

Diplomatico Ambassador

A legendary Venezuelan rum producer launches their first ultra premium bottling: Diplomatico Ambassador Selection.  You’re going to love this one!

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Better known by its ‘DUSA’ acronym, Distilerias Unidas S.A. of Venezuela has gained recognition for its Diplomatico branded rums, helped by the warmth and personality of the globetrotting Ballesteros family who are behind the brand.

The distillery, which lies at the foot of the Andes Mountains in Venezuela, was established in 1959 and is one of the biggest providers of rum in the country.  The DUSA plant covers an impressive 12 hectares and produces some 8 million 9-litre cases a year.  With the arrival of Diplomatico Ambassador Selection, DUSA are proud to see the launch of their first ever ultra premium bottling, a fine addition to the current Diplomatico range; Blanco, Anejo, Reserva and Reserva Exclusiva.

DUSA Presidente, Jose R. Ballesteros Melendez commented on the launch: “We are immensely proud of Diplomatico and the international success that the brand is achieving.  This success is a real team effort and owes much to the pride and passion of the whole team at DUSA.  It was our desire to create a truly international brand and it is extremely satisfying seeing Diplomatico in the finest establishments in New York, Miami, Paris, London, Sydney and Mumbai.  This success inspired us to craft and now launch Ambassador Selection our ultra premium rum that will comfortably sit alongside other great rums and spirits.”

Ambassador Selection was created by Rum Master Tito Cordero, only the 3rd Rum Master in the history of DUSA.  It is crafted from 100% heavy pot still rums and aged for a minimum of 12 years, the rum is aged in ex-bourbon casks before finishing for an additional 2 years in Pedro Ximenez sherry casks.  Not only does it contain no sweeteners, caramel or other additives, its high strength (47% ABV) also means it does not require chill-filtration.  This ensures that fatty acids which contribute to the mouth feel and flavor are not removed during the filtration process, giving an exceptionally smooth finish.

Tito commented: “The creation of Ambassador Selection has taken many years but we are very pleased with the new addition to our family.  Our current Reserva Exclusiva is a very well loved, smooth and complex blend and we always wanted to build on this.  Through the selection of barrels containing only the finest, most complex of our rums and aging these for a further period in Pedro Ximenez sherry casks, we have not only been able to create an extremely smooth rum but also one with immense character and body.  I have been working with this rum for years and even now it still brings a smile to my face.”

Casimiro Rum Launch

Ybor City’s Columbia Restaurant now has its very own line of spirits to honor the people who founded the family business more than 100 years ago.

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Richard Gonzmart, a fourth generation family member of Florida’s Oldest Restaurant, The Columbia, has created a private label spirits line honoring first and second generation family members of the 106-year-old Columbia. 

Don Casimiro Classic Silver Rum: In 1902 Casimiro Hernandez, Sr., the “Don” of the Hernandez-Gonzmart generations left his home in Havana for a new life in Ybor City, Fla., the cigar capital of the world, with his wife, Adela, and four sons.  He started the Saloon Columbia. Grateful to be in the land of opportunity, he adopted the name of his new café from the popular song “Columbia, Gem of the Ocean”.

A fun-loving man, Don Casimiro soon became known for his foresight, generosity, kindness to strangers, good food and love of a great rum. 1929 ushered the second generation into the business, led by Casimiro, Jr., who carried on the dream and passions of his father. Here’s to Don Casimiro Sr. and Jr.; a glass of the finest rum they enjoyed so much!

Chacho Bourbon Whiskey: Evelio “Chacho” Hernandez, the youngest son of Casimiro Hernandez Sr., roasted coffee for the family business for over 55 years. Chacho, short for “muchacho” or “the kid,” was known for his youthful warm-heartedness and zest for life.

But his love of bourbon sometimes surpassed his love of roasting the best coffee in Ybor City. Chacho was legendary for the countless batches of coffee that burned while “enjoying” his whiskey at the Rex bar across the street from The Columbia. In fact, the coffee roaster caught the restaurant on fire so often that the family decided to move Chacho, and the mill, to the corner of 21st St and 7th Ave. and build a firewall to protect the family business.  

Gonzmart has also created three new drinks to showcase these new spirits: 

  • El Floridita Daiquiri: This is the original Daiquiri invented in the 1930’s by Casimiro Hernandez’s friend, Constante Ribalaigua, owner of Old Havana’s landmark bar, El Floridita. The Daiquiri was Ernest Hemingway’s favorite cocktail and Casimiro brought back this secret recipe after a visit with his friend. Don Casimiro Classic Silver Rum is served with a fresh lime juice, Luxardo Maraschino Liqueur and a splash of grapefruit, shaken and served on the rocks in a sugar-rimmed glass.
  • Mint Julep: Casimiro Jr. enjoyed horse racing, especially the Kentucky Derby. He also enjoyed Mint Juleps so much that in the back lot of the Columbia in Ybor City, he would grow fresh mint to serve the most refreshing summer cocktail in Tampa.  The drink is served in a muddled fresh mint in a pewter Mint Julep cup, filled with cracked ice, Casimiro’s secret mint simple syrup, Chacho Bourbon and topped with fresh mint.
  • Chacho Manhattan: Honoring our great uncle, Evelio “Chacho” Hernandez was the youngest son of the founder, Casimiro Hernandez Sr. At the turn of the 20th century, Ybor City was filled with guava orchards. Chacho’s love of guavas inspired him to use guava syrup in the Classic Manhattan. He mixed premium small batch Chacho Bourbon, a dash of guava syrup, sweet vermouth and bitters. It is then stirred and poured over ice, garnished with lemon and orange zest.

Don Casimiro Classic Silver Rum and Chacho Bourbon Whiskey will be served in all seven Columbia locations in Florida, and sold in gift shops adjacent to the Columbia in Tampa’s Ybor City, and in Sarasota on St. Armands Circle.

The Art of Brugal 1888

Brugal combines the perfect balance of ‘time, passion and experience’ to create 1888, one of the best rums to hit the market this year.  Here’s more.

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The expertise and rum-crafting skills of the Brugal family have been passed down through generations of Maestros Roneros, Rum Masters, who worked for years, under the strictest secrecy, to produce an exceptional liquid: Brugal 1888.  In Brugal 1888, both experience and tradition in making the best rums have been exquisitely combined to match the sophisticated tastes of current consumers.  The result is a unique rum, with a contemporary style and a great personality. Undoubtedly, a world class rum.

Brugal 1888 is the perfect blend of time, passion and experience of five generations of Maestros Roneros. Its artisanal crafting commences with a double distillation, followed by a careful selection of the best rums that undergo a double aging process.  During the initial stages, it is vital for these rums to be aged in medium roasted American white oak casks (quercus alba), and subsequently to continue the aging process in European oak casks (quercus robur) that have previously been used for aging Sherry wines.

The wooden casks are a key element in differentiating Brugal 1888 from other rums as they are either hand-crafted or hand-picked under the guidance of George Espie, The Macallan Master of Wood.  

Another of the keys to the unique nature of Brugal 1888 is the specific arrangement of the casks where the rums are aged, a technique used exclusively in making 1888.  In this case, the casks are placed horizontally during the aging process, so that the liquid is in permanent contact with the wood, ensuring that the rum takes on highly specific characteristics of color, aroma and taste. Brugal & Co. has a cellar exclusively designed for housing casks placed horizontally, grouped together into batches of 68 units, giving a maximum of 14,000 bottles.  

Brugal has made premium quality rums since 1888 when it was founded by Don Andres Brugal in the Dominican Republic.  His vision and experience has been passed on through five generations of the Brugal family, whose members have become part of a saga of expert artisans in the production of the finest rum, generation after generation. In fact, the Maestros Roneros are not only members of the Brugal Family legacy but also personal guardians of the entire rum making process. The Meastroa Roneros painstakingly care for each and every stage of rum production before bestowing their personal seal of approval upon the final and exquisite results. 

Today, Brugal Rum is the #3 rum in the world in terms of volume.  Its strong presence in the industrial development of the Dominican Republic, covering a widely diversified, dynamic, and consolidated range, is unmatched and is currently one of the most emblematic brands of its geographical surroundings.  

Brugal 1888 Facts

  • Aged: Master blending of only the finest rums aged 5-14 years. Aged in medium toasted American white oak casks followed by a second maturation in first-filled Sherry oak casks.
  • Flavor palate:  Smooth, full bodied, with a notable finish of toffee caramel, wood and licorice.  Leaves a sweet, lingering and sublime aftertaste which denotes perfection.
  • Nose:  An exquisite scented bouquet.  Some spicy notes, hints of chocolate, roasted coffee beans and hints of cinnamon and dried fruits.
  • Color:  In the light, it stands out for its dark amber, bright, clean color.
  • Suggested serving:  A complex rum, with vibrant nuances, to be sipped on its own, with ice or in the most surprising cocktails.
  • Pricing: $49.99


Blackwell Enters US Market

BIG News: Blackwell Fine Jamaican Rum announces distribution in the United States with the Classic & Vintage Division of Domaine Select Wine Estates.

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Music industry legend and founder of both Island Records and the award-winning Island Outpost hotel group, Chris Blackwell, announces the United States launch of Blackwell Fine Jamaican Rum.

Highly sought-after, yet previously only available in Jamaica, Blackwell’s eponymous rum will be available in the United States starting this month. Domaine Select Wine Estates has been named the exclusive importer in the U.S. as Blackwell Rum joins their Classic & Vintage Portfolio. Blackwell Rum will be exclusively distributed in NY and NJ by DSWE’s Merchants wholesale division.

Blackwell Rum perfectly captures the essence of Jamaica in beverage form. Referred to as “black gold” among those in-the-know, the rum is the brainchild of Chris Blackwell and advertising industry guru Richard Kirshenbaum, with whom Blackwell has partnered. Raised in Jamaica, Blackwell hails from one of the island’s oldest rum producing families. Meanwhile, Kirshenbaum has steered leading beverage brands, including Hennessy, Moet & Chandon, Dom Perignon, Grand Marnier, Guinness, Don Julio, Ciroc Vodka and The Tuscan Wines of Ruffino, among others.

“It is with great pleasure that we announce our partnership with Domaine Select,” said Chris Blackwell. “We searched for a well respected industry distributor that has both a stellar reputation and an entrepreneurial spirit, and we have found the perfect partner in this regard with Domaine Select.”

“We are thrilled with the addition of Blackwell’s Fine Jamaican Rum to our Classic & Vintage Collection,” says Paolo Domeneghetti, Founder & C.E.O. of Domaine Select Wine Estates. “With a family history in the rum trade that dates back to the 17th century, we believe that Chris Blackwell himself, together with his unique rum, represents the integrity and rich authenticity that makes this product a natural fit with our portfolio.”

DSWE will begin immediate roll out of Blackwell Rum through its distribution network, in major markets across the United States this summer.

Technical Details of Blackwell’s Fine Jamaican Rum

Distilled by: J. Wray & Nephew at Appleton Estate, Jamaica

Alcohol by volume: 40% | Package sizing: 750ml bottles | Suggested retail price: US$29.99

Tasting notes: A luminous deep amber glow. Tropical fruit on the nose, backed up with toasty coconut flavors, honeyed tropical fruits and hints of citrus on the palate. A well-balanced, soft and long finish.

Serving suggestions: Blackwell Rum is equally easy on the palate whether blended with complimentary flavors, such as fresh juices or cola, or simply enjoyed on the rocks. Signature cocktail, The GoldenEye, features Blackwell Rum, juices of pineapple, orange, and lime, plus simple syrup, shaken (not stirred) and served over crushed ice.

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Have you tried Blackwell Fine Jamaican Rum?  Let us know what you think. 

VooDoo Mojo Enters NOLA

In a city known for signature drinks, The Bourbon O Bar in New Orleans announces a Sailor Jerry-spiked concoction called VooDoo Mojo.  Enjoy!

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Another Iconic Drink Hits New Orleans…..Maybe

Taking a page from the long and storied history of cocktails in the city where that term was coined, the Bourbon “O” Bar at the Bourbon Orleans Hotel, located in the heart of the French Quarter, has announced the creation of a new drink called the “VooDoo Mojo” featuring Sailor Jerry Spiced Navy Rum.

Cocktails and drinks have been synonymous with Bourbon Street since the early 1800s. Many famous drinks such as the “Hurricane” and the “Sazerac” have been born in the steamy summer months when a cool libation is a virtual necessity.

With the assistance of an iconographic brand of rum, Sailor Jerry Spiced Navy Rum, the bartenders of the Bourbon “O” Bar have concocted a delightful and powerful mix that aims to place the bar on the map of Bourbon Street clubs offering stiff drinks. The cocktail is served in a special souvenir flagon, boasts a full 20 ounces and sells for 9 bucks including the lavender colored signature container.

To introduce the drink on Bourbon Street and to the New Orleans community, the Bourbon Orleans Hotel, Bourbon “O” Bar and Sailor Jerry Spiced Navy Rum hosted a party offering the VooDoo Mojo up for free to guests wanting a taste of New Orleans’ newest cocktail.

The full list of ingredients for the VooDoo Mojo is still a close guarded secret, but we’ve got our New Orleans-based Rum Connection representatives reverse engineering it as we speak.  Stay tuned.

Launch: Cruzan Strawberry

Just in time for warm-weather boat drinking, Cruzan rolls out yet another flavored rum.  Cruzan Strawberry hits the market this week.

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Beam Global Spirits & Wine, Inc. and Cruzan Rum today announced the official launch of their newest flavored rum, Cruzan Strawberry. Crafted with fine Cruzan rum, all-natural flavors, and cane sugar, it combines the taste of ripe strawberries with a touch of ginger, putting a new spin on the strawberry flavor.

“Strawberry is a natural addition to the Cruzan portfolio, mainly because our fans have endorsed it as the next flavor of choice,” said Kim Washington, Senior Director of Rums and Vodkas at Beam Global. “It’s the number one flavor ordered by consumers in rum drinks, and since May is National Strawberry Month, the timing of this addition is perfect.”

The unique pairing of strawberry and ginger is the type of innovation people have grown to expect from Cruzan, which pioneered the flavored rum category. The Cruzan Strawberry recipe is handcrafted by the Nelthropp family, who has been making rum on the island of St. Croix for generations.

Tasting Notes and Aroma

  • Taste – Ripe, wild strawberry coupled with subtle ginger root
  • Aroma – Fresh and juicy strawberry
  • Finish – Smooth with a light spiced ginger finish

How to Enjoy Cruzan Strawberry

  • Cruzan Strawberry enhances classic rum cocktails such as the Mojito, Skinny Mojito, Daiquiri, Cuba Libre, and Rum Runner

Strawberry is the 11th flavor in Cruzan’s portfolio of flavored spirits. Like all Cruzan rum, quality is a main differentiator. Cruzan contains all-natural flavors, and the five-column distillation process removes unwanted impurities; the result is a cleaner spirit with some of the lowest levels of fusel oils. Cruzan is named for the people of St. Croix and is distilled at an historic estate that started producing sugar and molasses in 1760.

“This is an exciting new addition to the Cruzan family; one that truly embodies the relaxed vibe of the islands,” said Gary Nelthropp, Cruzan Rum’s Master Distiller. “We developed the Strawberry recipe with classic cocktails in mind — the ginger gives this spirit a subtle, spicy finish, so it breathes some new life into favorite summer drinks.”

Cruzan Strawberry Recipes

CRUZAN STRAWBERRY GINGER DAIQUIRI
2 parts Cruzan Strawberry Rum
1.5 parts fresh lime juice
1.5 parts simple syrup
Fill mixing glass with ¾ ice. Add all ingredients and shake for 5 sec. Pour into chilled martini glass. Garnish with a lime wedge.

CRUZAN MOJITO WITH A TWIST
2 parts Cruzan Strawberry Rum
2 tsp. sugar
3-4 mint leaves
Juice of half a lime
Club soda
Muddle sugar, mint, lime juice, and a splash of club soda together in a tall glass. Add rum and garnish with a strawberry.

Pricing and Availability
Cruzan Strawberry is currently available nationwide at a suggested retail price of $15.99.

In addition to Cruzan Strawberry, the Cruzan portfolio also consists of 10 other flavored rums, as well as Cruzan 9 Spiced Rum, Cruzan Aged Light Rum, Cruzan Aged Dark Rum, Cruzan Single Barrel Estate Rum, and Cruzan Black Strap Rum. For more information about Cruzan Rum, and for additional cocktail recipes created with the full line of rums, visit www.facebook.com/CruzanRum or www.cruzanrum.com.