From Cane to Cup: Discovering the Secrets of Puerto Rican Rum
In the heart of the Caribbean, where the tropical climate meets a rich and diverse culture, Puerto Rico stands as the perfect setting to talk about one of the most appreciated beverages in the region: rum. The Livestream available on Zavvy “Aquí se habla de ron” dives deep into this tradition, taking viewers on an educational and sensory journey, framed under the topic: “What I learned visiting Puerto Rico.” This tour seeks not only to explore the drink itself, but also the stories, faces and traditions that revolve around it, constituting a fundamental part of Puerto Rican identity.
This journey is guided by two leading figures in the rum industry: Bryan Inman, known as “The Rum Champion”, and Fede J. Hernandez, the mastermind behind TheRumLab. Both share their experiences and discoveries after passing through the Isla del Encanto during the National Rum Festival – Taste of Rum. Through their eyes, viewers will have the opportunity to experience every detail of this iconic festival, absorbing the unique experience that Puerto Rico has to offer. Get ready to immerse yourself in a world of flavors, aromas, and colors as we celebrate the beverage that has shaped Puerto Rico’s history and culture.
Casa Bacardi in Puerto Rico
Geographical location
Casa Bacardi, also known as “La Catedral del Ron“, is located in the vibrant municipality of Cataño, Puerto Rico. This strategic location not only facilitates access to visitors from various parts of the world, but also provides stunning views of San Juan Bay, giving the distillery a Caribbean atmosphere that combines the natural beauty of the environment with a modern and advanced infrastructure.
History and Foundation
The move of the Bacardi distillery to Puerto Rico occurred in 1936, marking a new chapter in the company’s expansion. The decision to found a facility of such magnitude in Cataño responded to a well-calculated strategy, allowing Bacardi to circumvent the restrictions imposed by the Prohibition Act in the United States and continue with its production.
The start of operations in Puerto Rico was sponsored by a favorable environment towards foreign investment, as well as by the rich tradition of the island in the production of sugar cane, the main ingredient for the creation of rum. From its earliest days, the distillery stood as a hub of innovation and excellence, setting new standards for quality and refinement in the rum industry.
Over the years, the Bacardi House has grown and modernized, but always maintaining a deep respect for its heritage and its commitment to the production of a rum that reflects the passion and tradition that have characterized Bacardi since its inception.
Importance to Puerto Rico’s economy
Since its installation in Puerto Rico, Bacardi has not only enriched the palates of locals and strangers alike with its distinguished rum, but has also had a significant impact on the country’s economy. The distillery has generated a considerable number of direct and indirect jobs, contributing significantly to the economic development of the region.
In addition, the presence of Casa Bacardi has encouraged tourism, attracting visitors from all over the world eager to learn the secrets behind the production of their favorite rum. The distillery has become a must-see for tourists, where they can learn about the rum-making process, from harvesting sugarcane to bottling the precious liquid.
Bacardi has also demonstrated a sustained commitment to the Puerto Rican community, investing in education and sustainability programs, and supporting local initiatives that seek to promote the development and well-being of the population.
The Rum Production Process
The sugarcane plantation: the beginning of everything
The process of creating Bacardi rum begins in the green fields where sugar cane, a vital ingredient that defines the character and quality of rum, is grown. This crop requires a tropical climate and fertile land, conditions that Puerto Rico offers abundantly.
The sugar cane is meticulously harvested to obtain the sweet and sugary juice that will be the basis of the rum. This juice undergoes a fermentation process, where it is transformed, thanks to the action of specially selected yeasts, into a primary alcoholic beverage that is ready for the next phase: distillation.
The Distillation Process
At the Bacardi distillery, the liquid obtained from the fermentation is carefully distilled in modern stills that allow precise control over the process. The distillation is carried out by extracting the impurities and concentrating the desired compounds that will give the rum its distinctive and unique flavour.
This process is supervised by master rum makers who have years of experience and in-depth knowledge in rum production, ensuring that only the best product continues to the next stage: maturation.
Maturation: the role of barrels and time
Once distilled, the rum is transferred to American oak barrels where it will begin its maturation process. Barrels not only act as containers, but are an active part of rum development, lending unique flavour and colour notes during ageing.
Time is a crucial factor in this process. Over the years, rum slowly absorbs oak compounds, acquiring a complexity and depth of flavour that could not otherwise be obtained. The maturation time can vary, giving rise to rums with different characteristics and providing the master rum makers with a rich palette of flavours and aromas with which to create their blends.
Carbon filtration: a distinctive technique
After reaching the desired ripening point, the rum undergoes a filtration process through activated charcoal, a distinctive technique that allows additional impurities to be removed and the flavor profile of the rum to be adjusted.
This refined filtration makes it possible to obtain a smoother and cleaner rum, making a significant difference in the final quality of the product. It is this attention to detail, this tireless pursuit of perfection, that has allowed Bacardi to stand out in a highly competitive market and build a reputation based on quality and excellence.
Sensorial Experience
Aroma: detailed description of the smells perceived during the visit
On a visit to the Bacardi House, one is immersed in a symphony of aromas that tell the story of the different states of rum. From the initial sweetness of fresh sugar cane to the deeper, more complex notes revealed during maturation in oak barrels.
The air is permeated with fragrances that combine earthy elements with fruity touches, providing an olfactory experience that can be reminiscent of vanilla, banana, and certain citrus nuances. These scents not only create a unique atmosphere, but serve as a prelude to the tasting experience that will follow.
Taste: tasting of rums with different finishes
The tasting is a highlight of the tour, where visitors have the opportunity to appreciate the richness and diversity of Bacardi’s portfolio. Young rums offer a fresh and vibrant experience, with a hint of sweetness that dances on the palate.
Meanwhile, the older rums present a deeper and more developed palette of flavours, offering notes of caramel, nuts and spices that unfold in a complex and rewarding dance. Each sip is a story that tells years of dedication and mastery.
Visual: the importance of color in rum
Finally, the sensory experience is completed with the visual appreciation of rum. The color of rum is not only a delight for the eyes, but an indicator of its maturation process. Younger varieties tend to have a lighter, almost crystalline tone, while aged rums acquire amber or even brown tones, reflecting the time spent in oak barrels.
This color palette allows fans and newbies alike to anticipate the depth and complexity of each rum, serving as a visual introduction to the sensory journey each bottle of Bacardi promises.
The Symbolism of the Bacardi Palm
The story behind the palm tree symbol
The palm tree symbol has been linked to the Bacardi brand since its inception, being much more than a simple emblem on its labels; it represents resilience, tradition and connection with the company’s Cuban roots.
In the mid-nineteenth century, the founder of Bacardi, Don Facundo Bacardi Massó, chose the palm tree emblem to symbolize the firmness and constant growth of his emerging company. This symbol also represents tropical freshness and free spirit, intrinsic characteristics of the Caribbean culture that gives life to Bacardi rum.
The connection with Santiago de Cuba
The choice of palm has deep connections with Santiago de Cuba, where the company was born. Santiago, with its rich biodiversity and landscapes that mix mountains and beaches, was surrounded by these imposing palm trees, which would later become the emblem of the brand, transporting every consumer to the beginnings of Bacardi, to the Caribbean beaches and to the fresh breeze of Santiago.
Additionally, the Bacardi palm symbolizes a constant bond with its roots, a reminder of its humble beginning and the Cuban passion that drove Don Facundo to create the most famous rum in the world. Through this symbol, Bacardi not only communicates its heritage, but also invites each person to be part of a tradition that celebrates life with a free and joyful spirit.
Master Distillers and Blenders: The Artisans Behind Bacardi Rum
Profile and trajectory of prominent figures such as Joe Gomez and Troy
In the world of Bacardi rum, leading figures such as Joe Gomez and Troy have marked the company’s trajectory with their skills and in-depth knowledge. Joe Gomez, with vast experience in the sector, has been a crucial part in the process of experimenting and developing new formulas that have led Bacardi to reinvent itself and stay at the forefront of the rum industry.
For his part, Troy, the current global Master Blender, leads the way in creating unique and sophisticated blends that delight the palates of consumers around the world. Always looking to the future, Troy is dedicated to exploring new frontiers in the world of rums, combining tradition and modernity in every bottle.
Current innovations and experiments
At this time of renewal and constant search for excellence, the Bacardi team is immersed in a series of innovations and experimentations that promise to transform the way we perceive rum. From the implementation of filtering techniques with different types of charcoal to the exploration of different maturation methods, each step is taken with the intention of reaching perfection.
A significant part of this innovative process resides in the experimentation with small barrels, which allow a greater interaction between the liquid and the wood, resulting in rums with unique character and personality.
With a team dedicated to excellence and a tradition that refuses to stand still, Bacardi promises to remain a leading player on the global rum scene, bringing to every home not just a drink, but an experience that invites you to celebrate life with joy and passion.
Other Noteworthy Puerto Rican Rum Brands and Distilleries
Aside from the globally recognized Bacardi, Puerto Rico is home to a range of other noteworthy rum producers that have equally contributed to the island’s rich history of rum production. Below we spotlight some of these renowned brands and distilleries.
Don Q
A contender for the top spot, Don Q is a brand with deep roots in Puerto Rico, maintaining a strong presence since its inception in the 1860s. The brand prides itself on its sustainable production methods and a wide array of rum products, from premium aged rums to flavored variations.
Ron del Barrilito
This brand has maintained a traditional approach to rum production for over a century. Ron del Barrilito offers a limited but revered selection of rums, with their two and three-star products being popular choices among rum enthusiasts.
Trigo Corp
Trigo Corp is a newer player in the industry but has quickly established a reputation for producing high-quality rums. Their portfolio includes the renowned Reserva Añeja, which has found favor among rum aficionados for its balanced flavor profile.
Pitorro
Although not a brand, Pitorro refers to a type of moonshine rum that is a part of Puerto Rican culture. It is traditionally homemade and can be found in a variety of flavors, providing a more rustic and authentic taste of Puerto Rican rum.
Destilería Serrallés
The powerhouse behind the Don Q brand, Destilería Serrallés, has a long history dating back to the 19th century. This distillery not only produces Don Q but also engages in numerous initiatives to promote sustainable and environmentally friendly production practices.
The Holiday: Celebrating Rum in Puerto Rico
The Rum Festival: a meeting for amateurs and professionals
Each year, Puerto Rico is decorated to host the Rum Festival, an event that brings together amateurs and professionals from the world of rum, allowing a space for meeting, learning and celebration around this drink that has marked the history and culture of the country. It is here that Bacardi, as one of the largest rum producers globally, has a leading role, presenting its latest innovations and delighting attendees with unique sensory experiences.
During the festival, Bacardi’s master distillers and blenders offer workshops and talks, sharing their knowledge and passion for rum, and giving attendees a unique opportunity to delve into the secrets behind the production of this ancient beverage.
Puerto Rican culture and its relationship with rum
Rum is not just a drink for Puerto Ricans; it is a manifestation of their culture, a witness to their history, and a companion in their celebrations. Puerto Rico’s relationship with rum is profound, being present in the country’s music, dance and gastronomy, offering a distinctive note that highlights the joy and festive character of the Puerto Rican people.
Bacardi, with its long history on the island, has managed to merge with this culture, adopting and enhancing Puerto Rican traditions in each of its bottles, being an ambassador of the holiday and the country’s heritage in every corner of the world.
When talking about Puerto Rico, it is inevitable to talk about rum, and when talking about rum, it is inevitable to think about Bacardi, a company that has been able to bring the Puerto Rican essence to every corner of the world, celebrating the joy, passion and celebration that characterize this beautiful Caribbean country.
Conclusion
After entering the Bacardi world, not only as a brand, but as a fundamental pillar in the culture and
economy of Puerto Rico, it is impossible not to be amazed at the wealth of tradition and mastery that unfolds at every stage of rum production. The visit to Casa Bacardi is not just a journey through the history of a company, but a walk through the living history of Puerto Rico, an island with a rich and deep legacy that is reflected in every drop of rum that distills.
In a rapidly advancing world, the rum tradition stands as a bastion of Puerto Rican history and culture, a reminder of roots that must be preserved with honor and respect. Bacardi’s task, as well as that of its community, is not only to continue producing rum to the highest standard of quality, but also to educate new generations about the importance of keeping alive the legacy of rum production, ensuring that the historical richness, passion and art that are intertwined in this noble beverage, continue to be a Puerto Rican banner for the world, uniting people through time and geography in a toast to history and the future.
Featured image: Unsplash
