Quintana Rum, CEO & Founder: CIRO DI COSTANZO
TRL: Who is Ciro Di Costanzo?
I was born on June 24, 1979, in Brownsville, Texas, but my story truly begins at the age of three when my family moved to Tampico, Tamaulipas, in Mexico. This early relocation planted seeds of curiosity about the world in my young mind. Growing up in Tampico, surrounded by vibrant culture and diverse people, I developed a passion for international relations, which led me to pursue a degree in this field at the Universidad de Relaciones y Estudios Internacionales. In 2009, driven by a desire for new experiences and opportunities, I moved to San Antonio, Texas. It was here, amidst its rich history and dynamic atmosphere, that I found the inspiration to embark on my entrepreneurial journey. After several years of planning and perfecting my vision, I launched Quintana Rum in 2021. This venture wasn’t just about creating another spirit; it was about bottling the essence of my heritage and experiences into something tangible and enjoyable.
Through Quintana Rum, I aim to share a piece of my journey—from the sun-drenched streets of Tampico to the bustling life in San Antonio. It’s more than just rum; it’s a celebration of cultures, connections, and the beautiful complexity of our world.
TRL: Three essential characteristics that define the rum according to your perspective.
Okay, so first, imagine the warmth of the sun on your face – that’s the kind of feeling our rums have. It’s down to the rich, sun-soaked molasses we use. Then, there’s this whole burst of flavors… like, imagine a fruit market – mangoes, maybe a hint of spice – it’s complex! And lastly, it just goes down so smooth, it’s the kind of rum you want to savor.
The thing about Mexican rum… it’s like history and tradition – all bottled up. We’ve been growing sugarcane for generations, so there’s a deep connection between what we do and the land itself. But it’s also exciting, you know? We’re always trying new things, and finding unique flavors… Mexican rum, it’s about honoring the past while making something fresh.
TRL: What is the most important contribution you have made to the rum industry?
The most important contribution that Quintana Rum and I bring to the rum industry is our deep respect for tradition and our desire to tell a story with every bottle. We focus on authenticity and the celebration of our cultural heritage, which means we carefully craft each batch using traditional methods and local ingredients. This approach not only supports sustainable practices but also enriches the rum with distinctive, local flavors. We’re not merely producing rum; we’re offering an experience, an invitation to taste and appreciate the history and culture embedded within our region. In doing so, we’ve carved out a unique niche in a competitive market, establishing a genuine connection with those who appreciate our craft. Our commitment goes beyond business—it’s about honoring our roots and sharing the vibrant essence of our heritage with the world.
TRL: Benefits that the rum industry has given you.
Working in the rum industry has been a deeply enriching experience for me, touching both my personal life and professional career in profound ways. Personally, it’s given me a profound way to connect with my roots. There’s something very special about diving into the traditions of rum-making that resonate with my own heritage. It’s like weaving parts of my history and culture into each bottle, which is incredibly fulfilling.
Professionally, it’s opened up a world of opportunities. I’ve had the chance to meet an amazing array of people, from local farmers who grow our sugarcane to fellow distillers and enthusiasts who share a passion for quality spirits. Each interaction has not only expanded my network but also enriched my understanding and appreciation of this craft.
Beyond relationships, the rum industry has pushed me to grow as an entrepreneur. It challenges me to blend the rich traditions of the past with innovative techniques that appeal to modern palates. This balance keeps me creatively engaged and constantly striving to refine our product. All in all, being part of this industry has been a rewarding journey that has shaped who I am today, allowing me to do what I love while sharing something I’m passionate about with the world.
TRL: Any tips to train the palate and taste a good premium rum?
I’d love to share some friendly advice on how to get more enjoyment out of tasting premium rum. First off, it’s great to start by trying a variety of rums. You’ll quickly start to pick up on the different flavors and find out what tickles your taste buds.
Before you taste, make sure to cleanse your palate—simple water works, or maybe a cracker or two. It’s like resetting your taste buds so you get the full impact of the rum’s flavor. And the glass matters too; a tulip-shaped glass is best because it helps you catch all the aromatic nuances.
Now, before you take that first sip, give the rum a good swirl in the glass and take a nice deep sniff. See what scents you can pick out. Is it fruity? Spicy? Woody? It’s kind of like a detective game with your nose.
When you sip, let it sit in your mouth for a bit, roll it around. Notice how it changes—what starts maybe sweet might unfold into something delightfully complex. Pairing rum with food can be a lot of fun too. Dark rum and chocolate are a personal favorite of mine—it brings out the depth of the rum.
Keeping a little journal of your tastings can also be super helpful. Just jot down your thoughts on the rum’s color, smell, taste, and how it made you feel. This can help you remember and refine your tastes over time.
And lastly, just keep curious. The more you learn about rum, the more you’ll discover and enjoy. It’s a wonderful world to explore! So, what do you think? Ready to give it a swirl?
TRL: How can the rum contribute to improving the crisis in some countries?
The rum industry has a touching role in tackling broader societal issues, especially in crisis-hit regions. It’s not just about making a drink; it’s about hope and support for entire communities.
For many people in rum-producing countries, the industry offers more than just jobs. It supports farmers who grow sugarcane, and the benefits ripple out to other local businesses involved in bottling and distribution. This creates a network of economic support that can be a lifeline for communities, especially in tough times.
But it’s the human side that hits home. Many rum companies take their role in the community seriously. They invest in the environment and in the people. For example, they might help build schools or fund scholarships which means kids get better opportunities, or they could support healthcare projects that save and improve lives.
In crisis times, the stability that these jobs and initiatives bring can be incredibly comforting. It’s about providing not just financial support, but also a sense of normalcy and hope. The industry’s efforts to be more environmentally and socially responsible also mean that they’re helping to build stronger, more resilient communities that can withstand and bounce back from adversity.
It’s touching to see how producing something as simple as rum can have such a profound impact on the lives of so many. It’s about crafting a future, not just a product.
TRL: Is the commitment to sustainable development the key to success for the permanence of the rum industry in the world? Why?
Sustainability is key for the rum industry’s future. It’s all about balance—making sure we’re not just taking resources today but ensuring they’re there for tomorrow too.
In practical terms, this means using farming methods that protect the environment, like reducing chemicals and conserving water. It also involves using cleaner energy sources in production, like solar or wind power, which are better for the planet and can cut costs in the long run.
But sustainability isn’t just about the environment—it’s also about people. Fair treatment of workers, safe working conditions, and good wages are essential. Investing in local communities by supporting schools and healthcare also plays a big part.
This approach is good for business too. Today’s consumers care deeply about how their purchases impact the world, and they’re loyal to brands that share their values.
So, sustainability isn’t just nice—it’s necessary. It helps ensure that we can continue to enjoy great rum while caring for our planet and its people. It’s about crafting a future that’s as rich and rewarding as the spirits we produce.
TRL: Who would like to meet in the rum industry? What would you say to him/her?
Jassil Villanueva Quintana.
TRL: What are your next goals in the rum industry?
Looking ahead, my goals in the rum industry are deeply connected to my passion for both the craft and its broader impact. One major goal is to innovate within sustainable production methods. I want to push the boundaries on how eco-friendly and socially responsible a distillery can be—from using organic ingredients to further reducing our carbon footprint.
Emotionally, it’s incredibly rewarding to think about leaving a positive mark on the world, not just through the products we create but through the way we create them. I also aim to deepen our community engagement. This means not just creating jobs but creating meaningful opportunities for people in the communities where we operate, such as more educational programs and partnerships with local businesses.
On a more personal note, I’m driven by the stories we can tell through our rum. I want to explore and celebrate the rich cultural heritage behind rum-making, bringing forward flavors and stories that maybe haven’t been heard before. It’s about crafting a legacy that respects tradition while also embracing innovation.
These goals keep me excited about the future and motivated to continue working hard every day. It’s not just about making rum; it’s about making a difference.
TRL: Plans you have when you leave the rum industry.
When I think about the day I’ll step away from the rum industry, my deepest hope is to leave behind a legacy that my daughter, Giada, can be truly proud of. It’s not just about having built a successful business, but about having positively influenced the world she will inherit.
My plans for leaving the industry are deeply personal. I want to ensure that the values of sustainability, community support, and cultural respect are deeply ingrained in the fabric of the company. My dream is for Giada to see that her father not only crafted fine spirits but also made thoughtful decisions that helped protect the environment and uplifted people’s lives.
Beyond the business, I want to spend more time with her, sharing the stories and lessons I’ve learned. I hope these stories inspire her to pursue her passions and maybe even continue the mission of making a positive impact.
Ultimately, leaving the rum industry will be bittersweet, but knowing that I’ve set an example for Giada, creating something that stands for more than just profit—that’s what gives me peace. It’s about leaving a mark on the world that is as meaningful and enduring as the finest rum we’ve ever bottled.
TRL: What is your advice for new generations in the rum industry?
To all the new generations stepping into the rum industry, or any industry for that matter, my advice is simple but heartfelt: dare to dream big and boldly step forward to turn those dreams into reality. The path won’t always be smooth, but the beauty of dreaming big is that it propels you forward, ignites creativity, and uncovers paths you might never have considered.
Be creative, be authentic, and be unique. Your unique voice and vision are what will set you apart in a crowded marketplace. Remember, innovation doesn’t just happen within the confines of what’s already known; it blossoms at the very edge of bold ideas and daring execution. Don’t shy away from experimenting or taking calculated risks—these are the stepping stones to discovery and success.
Henry Ford once said, “Whether you believe you can do a thing or not, you are right.” This powerful notion speaks to the importance of mindset in achieving your goals. If you start with the conviction that you can achieve what you set out to do, you’re already halfway there. Let this belief be the foundation of your journey.
And as Eduardo Galeano beautifully put it, “We are what we do to change what we are.” Every action you take shapes not only your future but also the identity of the industry itself. By embracing change and striving for better, you are actively crafting a new version of yourself and the world around you.
So, to all future visionaries, remember these words and let them guide you: Dream with conviction, act with courage, and never underestimate the power of believing in yourself. The industry awaits your imprint—make it a profound one!
TRL: How can people learn more about you? Website? Social media page?
