Island Rum Brands is expanding the distribution of its two Cuban rum brands, Black Tears Dry Spiced and La Progresiva, to Germany. This move strengthens the brand’s presence in Western Europe, adding Germany to its markets in the UK, France, and Kazakhstan.
Island Rum Brands has partnered with Kammer-Kirsch, a Karlsruhe-based distributor to support this expansion. This collaboration ensures that Black Tears will be available across all German alcohol distribution channels. Meanwhile, La Progresiva, a high-end sipping rum, will be sold through specialty retail stores and select on-premise locations.
As the first spiced rum from Cuba, Black Tears has built a reputation for its bold flavors and premium craftsmanship. By entering Germany, the brand reaches one of Europe’s largest and most competitive spirits markets.
Island Rum Brands’ international commercial and marketing director, Helena Zakmane, highlighted the importance of this expansion.
“This launch marks a significant milestone as we enter one of Europe’s biggest—and most challenging—markets,” Zakmane said. “I am confident that our partnership with Gerald Erdrich and the team at Kammer-Kirsch will be both long-lasting and successful.”
The rum industry has seen a wave of mergers and acquisitions in recent months. Diageo recently sold its Venezuelan rum brand Pampero to Gruppo Montenegro, followed by the sale of Cacique to La Martiniquaise-Bardinet. Meanwhile, Pernod Ricard divested South African rum Red Heart to KWV.
With its expansion into Germany, Black Tears continues to make waves in the premium rum sector, offering consumers a unique taste of Cuban heritage and craftsmanship.
Be the first to know! Get insider access to rum news and industry updates.
Global Drinks Intel’s Article: Cuban rums Black Tears, La Progresiva head to Germany
The image of the article is courtesy of © Serhii Yevdokymov via Canva.com
With 17 years of experience in the food industry—13 of them dedicated to rum—Yasmín Chapetón…
As Chief Operating Officer of the Kaua‘i‑based Kōloa Rum Company, Robert Ramer oversees the operations…
Women Leading Spirits (WLS) is proud to announce Ron Tepuy, the new premium rum from…
With a career that began in the late 1990s, Randolpth Ascaris Sánchez has built a…
Women Leading Spirits (WLS) marks a key moment in its evolution with the launch of…
With more than 38 years of experience in the aged‑spirits industry, José Pérez Cárdenas has…