From the Caribbean to Buenos Aires: The Journey of Ron Querencia with DANIEL GONZÁLEZ and NICOLÁS DEL ZOTTO

In a country where wine and beer often take center stage, two passionate individuals embraced a beverage with a Caribbean soul: rum. Daniel González, a Venezuelan living in Buenos Aires, and Nicolás Del Zotto, a native of Quilmes, joined forces to create Ron Querencia, a brand that not only challenges the palate but is also changing the perception of rum in Argentina.

With different backgrounds but a shared vision, Daniel brings decades of experience in the Venezuelan liquor industry, while Nicolás, with his master blender’s sensitivity, provides the alchemy that brings the product to life. In this two-person interview, they open the doors to their world to discuss challenges, innovation, education, and dreams of expansion.

Get ready to meet the men behind the rum that is awakening passions and building culture.

TRL: What was the biggest challenge you faced when launching your rum brand, and how did you overcome it?

Daniel: The biggest challenge was introducing rum to a country where it wasn’t understood or valued. We started by educating through Código Ron. The migrant community was key to creating a base. In 2024, we made history with the first Buenos Aires Ron Fest.

Nicolás: I agree with Daniel: The fundamental challenge was entering a market without a rum culture. But that’s precisely what prompted me to invest in this spirit. I love rum and want everyone to know about it.

TRL: How do you see the rum market developing in the next 5 to 10 years, and what trends do you think will define the future of the industry?

Daniel: Rum is going to follow the path of gin in Argentina. It’s positioning itself as a drink of status and culture. In a few years, it will compete with whiskey globally.

Nicolás: Good times are coming. There’s a growing appreciation for Latin American spirits. Consumers are looking for signature, different, authentic products.

TRL: Could you share a personal experience or moment that significantly influenced the direction of your brand?

Daniel: Ron Querencia was born from a dream I had. But before that, Nicolás—whom we didn’t know—came to one of our tastings, brought his homemade rum, and over time, perfected it. That brought us together, and today, we’re partners.

Nicolás: My experience in Bolivia was eye-opening. Seeing how rum sparks passion even outside the country motivated me to think about international expansion. Rum has no borders!

TRL: How do you balance tradition with innovation in your approach to rum-making and marketing?

Daniel: We respect the Caribbean essence but with a modern approach. Our rum is fresh, designed for cocktails, with premium details like the orange sealing wax on the bottle.

Nicolás: Like Roman and modern bridges, without the traditional foundation, nothing new would exist. We maintain the essential rules but add innovation, fresh ideas, and a contemporary style.

TRL: What recent initiatives or products have you launched that have had a special impact?

Daniel: Ron Querencia was our first launch. There’s a premium rum and an RTD with exotic flavors. The trials have been a success.

Nicolás: We’re working on two very innovative products. I can’t reveal much yet, but I promise they’ll surprise.

TRL: How do you educate consumers about your rum, and what’s the most important lesson they should learn?

Daniel: With our monthly sensory experiences. We educate without myths or empty marketing. The important thing is to enjoy rum for what it is.

Nicolás: In tastings, we discuss the truths and lies of the rum world. The key lesson: drinking in moderation is knowing how to drink.

TRL: How do you manage quality and consistency as your brand grows and enters new markets?

Daniel: We grew from a micro-distillery to a larger production base without losing quality. We collaborate with spicy brands, bars, and musicians. We want to maintain the artisanal touch.

Nicolás: Quality was a priority from day one. We control raw materials and processes. We’ve also partnered with craft breweries and other (for now) confidential projects.

TRL: What is your long-term vision for your rum brand, and how do you see your role in the industry’s evolution?

Daniel: We want to be the brand that pioneered rum culture in Argentina. We’re excited to see more and more local brands joining in.

Nicolás: I want Ron Querencia to reach every corner of the world. And if I can be a grain of sand in the history of rum, welcome! May the rum gods reward me as they see fit haha.

TRL: What educational advice would you give rum lovers to better understand this drink?

Daniel: Study the production process and the categories. Don’t just rely on what the brands say. Do your research and truly enjoy it.

Nicolás: Don’t limit yourself to just one brand or a country. There are hidden gems all over the world. To taste is to discover!

TRL: How can people get to know you better?

https://www.instagram.com/ronquerencia/ https://www.instagram.com/codigoron/