Cacique and Bacan Guaro Join Women Leading Rum & Spirits to Strengthen Female Leadership in the Global Spirits Industry

Women Leading Rum & Spirits (WLR&S), the international platform dedicated to advancing female leadership in the rum and spirits industry, proudly announces the addition of Cacique (Venezuela) and Bacan Guaro (Colombia) as new partner brands.

The arrival of Cacique and Bacan Guaro strengthens WLR&S’s presence in Latin America and expands the diversity of categories represented within the organization. Both brands bring rich histories, strong cultural identities, and a commitment to excellence that aligns with the platform’s mission.

For Larissa Arjona, President of Women Leading Rum & Spirits, this partnership marks a defining moment:

“The addition of Cacique and Bacan Guaro reflects the strength and diversity of our industry. These are brands that honor their roots, elevate the quality of Latin American spirits, and champion a more inclusive future. We are proud to welcome them into our community. Together, we can achieve incredible things and continue building a global movement that celebrates female leadership in all its forms.”

Cacique: The Icon of Venezuelan Rum Heritage

Celebrated in a nation of rum experts, Cacique has embodied the excellence and character of Venezuelan rum since its creation in 1961. Conceived as a symbol of leadership, the brand today remains one of the country’s most iconic and widely enjoyed rums, a source of national pride whose journey has taken the spirit of Venezuela far beyond its borders.

A pioneer from the very beginning, Cacique was the first Venezuelan rum to integrate different distillation methods, combining traditional rum-making techniques with systems inspired by Scotch whisky craftsmanship to create a distinctive complexity. The portfolio spans from the classic Cacique Añejo, the brand’s signature expression, to more premium offerings such as Cacique 500, alongside additional super-premium expressions available exclusively in Venezuela.

True to its origins, Cacique embraces authenticity over pretension. Infused with Latin warmth, it celebrates the beauty of real moments, true friendship, and spontaneous laughter, reflecting the vibrant spirit of Venezuela and inviting people to celebrate life in its most natural form.

Bacan Guaro: The Most Awarded Aguardiente in the World

Co-founded by Colombian entrepreneur Diana Espinosa March and her husband, Ricardo March, Bacan Guaro is a super-premium Colombian aguardiente, known locally as guaro. Bacan represents a refined expression of Colombia’s national spirit, created to elevate and redefine the category while honoring the traditions that have long surrounded aguardiente culture.

Crafted from organic sugarcane, star anise, and water, Bacan is a kosher-certified, sugar-free spirit designed to be enjoyed over ice, in cocktails, or as a celebratory shot. Since its launch in 2024, it has become the most awarded aguardiente in the world, earning international recognition for both its 24% and 29% expressions.

“Women Leading Rum & Spirits have created an important platform for connection, mentorship, and leadership across our industry,” said Diana. “I’m proud to have Bacan stand alongside so many talented women who are helping to shape the future of spirits.”

This alliance marks a significant step in WLR&S’s global expansion, reinforcing its mission to elevate, connect, and empower women who are transforming the industry through technical expertise, cultural influence, innovation, and entrepreneurship.