The Fascinating History Behind Angostura: A Virtual Journey to the Most Iconic Distillery

Angostura House is one of the most iconic distilleries in the world of rum. With a history spanning nearly two centuries, this Caribbean company has made an indelible mark on society and captivated the palates of rum enthusiasts worldwide. In a virtual event organized by TheRumLab, rum aficionados had the opportunity to embark on a virtual tour of the Angostura distillery while learning about the rich history and experiences from two special guests: Raymond Edwards and John George.

Family Legacy and the Beginning of a Legend

The history of Angostura dates back to 1824 when Dr. Johann Siegert perfected the recipe for the famous Angostura aromatic bitters. These bitters were originally created to alleviate the pain of wounded soldiers and were named after the Venezuelan town of Angostura. In the early years, Angostura focused on blending rums from various distilleries on the island of Trinidad instead of producing their own rum.

The First Rum Under the Angostura Brand

As Angostura delved into the rum business, they decided to keep the bitters and rums as separate entities. The first rum produced by Angostura was called “Seabird’s Bouquet,” which was a blend of rum infused with the botanicals used in the bitters. Over time, Angostura transitioned to producing pure rums, but it wasn’t until the late 1990s that the rums prominently carried the Angostura name on their labels.

The Family’s Role in Angostura’s History

Throughout the years, the Siegert family has played a crucial role in Angostura’s history. Gordon Siegert, the great-great-grandson of the founder, visited the distillery over a decade ago but currently has no involvement in the company’s operations. However, the family’s legacy and commitment to excellence and quality have remained steadfast over the years.

A Virtual Tour of the Distillery

Participants had the opportunity to take a fascinating virtual tour of the Angostura distillery. Guided by Raymond Edwards and John George, experts in the world of rum, they got an up-close look at the production processes, blending techniques, and the secrets behind the creation of Angostura’s famous rums.

Preserving History and Looking Towards the Future

Raymond Edwards emphasized the importance of preserving history and safeguarding the information and treasures that are part of Angostura’s legacy. He also highlighted the need to recognize and value the individuals who capture and transmit that valuable information for future generations.

Conclusion

The virtual journey to the Angostura distillery offered rum enthusiasts the chance to delve into the rich history of this iconic brand. From its humble beginnings as bitters producers to becoming one of the most renowned distilleries in the world, Angostura has left an indelible mark on the world of rum. We extend our gratitude to Raymond Edwards and John George for sharing their expertise and knowledge with rum enthusiasts in this memorable event organized by TheRumLab. Cheers to the history, tradition, and delicious rum of Angostura!