Rum in the News
DIAGEO - CACIQUE - BARDINET S.A. – LA MARTINIQUAISE
Diageo plc, has signed and completed the sale of Cacique to Bardinet S.A., one of the leading Spanish spirits players.
Cacique is an authentic rum brand from Venezuela with a 65-year heritage. It is popular amongst consumers in Spain and Venezuela. John Kennedy, Diageo’s President, Europe said: “The sale of Cacique reflects Diageo’s strategy of maintaining a sharp focus on effective portfolio management. We are confident that Bardinet is the right owner for Cacique, maintaining the brand’s authenticity and prominent position in Spain and Venezuela, as well as building its position in Continental Europe.” On the purchase of Cacique, Jean-Paul Bouyat, CEO of Bardinet S.A. added: “We are excited to announce the acquisition of Cacique, a uniquely positioned Venezuelan rum with a strong heritage. This is a strategic addition to our portfolio which will help us to increase our rum market share in Spain and beyond. We are looking forward to integrating this brand into our family, continuing to strengthen our offering, whilst always ensuring exceptional taste.” Bardinet is a key player in the Spanish Wine & Spirits category. With 200 associates, the company has a wide portfolio of spirits but also of Cava and Rioja wines, and non-alcoholic beverages. Since 1993, Bardinet has been part of the group La Martiniquaise-Bardinet, an independent French wines & spirits group founded in 1934. La Martiniquaise-Bardinet is a leading spirits group in France and features in the world’s TOP 10.
https://www.diageo.com/en, https://bardinet.fr/en, https://www.la-martiniquaise.com/en
CAPTAIN MORGAN – BOURBON STREET – T-PAIN
When you think of New Orleans, you think Bourbon Street, renowned the world over for its enduring one-of-a-kind spirit, electric energy, and of course, legendary cocktails. Bourbon Street’s most iconic cocktails have one thing in common: rum. So then, why is it called Bourbon Street? In its fourth year as the Official Spiced Rum Sponsor of the NFL, Captain Morgan is upping the ante when it comes to celebrating the Big Game in the Big Easy in true Captain fashion. Welcome to Rum Street: the unofficial, official, most fun destination for Super Bowl LIX, where legendary adventure, delicious cocktails and epic celebrations await around every corner. Captain Morgan’s Rum Street celebration is a toast to the place where celebrations are born, stories are made, and the spirit of New Orleans beats loudest. Starting Thursday, February 6, Follow the Captain to an all-out celebration of the French Quarter’s favorite spirit culminating with a show-stopping performance on Saturday, February 8 from GRAMMY® Award-winning artist, producer, songwriter, entrepreneur and global cultural icon, T-Pain. So, whether it’s a Hurricane or Daiquiri you’re craving, toast to the spirit of NOLA as you embark on an adventure like no other when Bourbon Street becomes Rum Street for the first time in history. “Captain Morgan is taking Bourbon Street to another level, and as far as legends go, it takes one to know one,” said T-Pain. “Get ready, New Orleans, Rum Street is going to bring the party like no other.”Captain Morgan is calling all crews 21+ in NOLA and at home to Follow the Captain to Rum Street for a weekend filled with super-sized fun and surprises. Here’s what’s on deck:
Spirit of NOLA: Captain Morgan is giving consumers on the ground in NOLA $10 to spend at Bourbon Street establishments that keep the spirit of NOLA alive
Rum Street HQ: The ultimate Rum Street celebration on Saturday, February 8, when T-Pain hits the stage at the hottest party of the weekend, delivering all his hits, putting an exclamation point on the week’s legendary fun.
Adventure for All: As soon as the ‘Rum Street’ flag is hoisted, be on the lookout for your chance to unlock prizes and unexpected adventures no matter if you’re in town for the Big Game or watching from home.“Fans have been able to unlock epic adventures all season long when they Follow the Captain. From tailgates at sea to our first-ever merch drop collab with KidSuper and Victor Cruz, it’s all been leading up to this moment,” said Anne Nosko, VP, Captain Morgan. “We’re celebrating the biggest weekend in sports with our biggest adventure yet on one of America’s most iconic streets. People come to Bourbon Street for memorable experiences with their crew and that’s what we’ll give them when they step onto Rum Street.” To join the crew and stay on top of all the fun Captain has in store, head to FollowTheCaptain.com.
ST. LUCIA DISTILLERS
Saint Lucia’s unique rum distillery, St. Lucia Distillers, announced that it has officially been granted a Protected Geographical Indication (GI) for its fine rums (Admiral Rodney, Chairman’s Reserve, Bounty, and Denros), recognizing them as the benchmark for rums produced in Saint Lucia and celebrating their deep connection to the island’s history and heritage. Since last November, this prestigious status guarantees that every bottle of Saint Lucia Rum is crafted to the highest standards, exclusively on Saint Lucian soil. Saint Lucia’s unique history of fourteen-time alternate French and British rule has left an indelible mark on the island’s rum-making traditions. Saint Lucia rum embodies this legacy by combining the expertise of both cultures in fermentation, distillation and aging. The result is a harmonious blend of French finesse and English precision, brought to life through the careful use of pot and column stills and perfected in their meticulous blending process. “Our Geographical Indication represents not just a mark of quality, but a testament to the craft and passion of Saint Lucian rum-making,” says Margaret Monplaisir, CEO of St. Lucia Distillers and Chairwoman of West Indies Rum & Spirits Producer’s Association (WIRSPA). “It reflects our commitment to preserving the island’s rich heritage while setting new standards for rum globally.” The unique terroir of Saint Lucia, its fertile volcanic soil, tropical climate, and pristine rainwater, imparts a distinct character to Saint Lucia Rum. On the nose, it offers sweetness and tropical fruit flavors like honey, raisins, and bananas, while the palate reveals warm spices and a subtle salty note reminiscent of the island’s sea breeze. This refined complexity is the result of generations of craftsmanship and dedication to excellence.
https://www.stluciadistillers.com/
GOSLINGS – PGA of AMERICA
The PGA of America announced a new multi-year partnership with Goslings, making it the “Official Rum” of the 2025 Ryder Cup and the PGA Championship through 2026. Goslings, Bermuda’s oldest company and largest exporter, producer of an award-winning portfolio of rums, ginger beers and tonic waters, and originator of the Dark ‘n Stormy® cocktail, will be served at general pouring bars and hospitality areas throughout Quail Hollow Club and Aronimink Golf Club, hosts of the 2025 and 2026 PGA Championships, respectively, as well as at Bethpage Black, site of the 2025 Ryder Cup. “The addition of Goslings to the on-site experience at the PGA Championship and Ryder Cup is a huge benefit for spectators,” said Luke Reissman, PGA of America Senior Director, Global Partnerships. “Goslings’ iconic, handcrafted rum drinks have been enjoyed across the world for over 200 years, and we are proud to bring them to two of the biggest events in golf.” As part of the partnership, Goslings will feature an on-site activation space at the PGA Championship and Ryder Cup, offering all spectators the opportunity to enjoy specialty rum cocktails, including the iconic Dark ‘n Stormy®, made with Goslings Black Seal Rum and Stormy Ginger Beer. We’re thrilled to bring the Goslings experience to the PGA Championship and Ryder Cup, two of the most iconic events in golf,” said Malcolm L. Gosling, eighth-generation rum maker and President of Gosling’s Export (Bermuda) Limited. “For over 200 years, our handcrafted rums have been a part of unforgettable moments worldwide, and we’re honored to now be a part of creating lasting memories for golf fans on this global stage.” The 107th PGA Championship will take place May 12-18 at Quail Hollow Club in Charlotte, North Carolina, while the 108th PGA Championship is slated for May 11-17, 2026, at Aronimink Golf Club in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania. The 2025 Ryder Cup will be held September 23-28 at Bethpage Black in Farmingdale, New York. https://www.goslingsrum.com/, https://www.pga.org/
BACARDI – RED CROSS
Bacardi Limited has committed to donating $100,000 to the American Red Cross to help people affected by the 2025 California wildfires following massive destruction in the area. In addition, the family-owned company is mobilizing pallets of water to assist first responders on the front lines. Separate from this donation, Bacardi is providing support to its people directly impacted through relief assistance, flexible work schedules, free counseling services, and more. “As a family-owned company, we believe in coming together in times of need and hope that this contribution is part of larger efforts to rebuild homes, communities and livelihoods. Our hearts and compassion go out to the many who have lost so much and we want them to know they are not alone” said Tony Latham, Regional President Bacardi North America.Bacardi funding will support the Red Cross relief efforts on the ground across Southern California. Already, more than 400 Red Crossers are on the ground providing support and the organization is coordinating closely with local partners to provide food, shelter, emotional support and other critical aid. With the help of partners, the Red Cross has provided more than 20,000 meals and snacks, along with relief items, including hygiene supplies, for thousands of affected families. “The American Red Cross is on the ground helping those impacted by the devastating wildfires in California. We are so grateful for partners like Bacardi as we work together to provide relief and hope for communities in the wake of this heartbreaking disaster” explained Anne McKeough, Chief Development Officer at the American Red Cross. http://www.bacardilimited.com, https://www.redcross.org/
PUSSER’S RUM
Pusser’s is now offering its Painkiller Mix in 12-ounce cans. Pusser’s Non-Alcoholic Painkiller Cocktail Mix creates the iconic Painkiller with ease. This tropical blend of pineapple, orange, coconut, and a hint of nutmeg is the perfect base, just add Pusser’s Rum and ice for a true taste of the Caribbean. Each can makes two Painkillers, so you only need to open what you need, no wasted leftovers. https://pussersrum.com/products/painkiller-mix-4-pack
MONDIAL DU RHUM
From February 12 to 14, 2025, the Palais Brongniart will host the second edition of the Mondial du Rhum. An international meeting that celebrates the Rum Ecosystem in all its human, cultural and economic richness. The event will feature ten conferences, more than 25 guest countries, more than 100 international speakers, more than 3,000 participants. Rum is not just a spirit: it is the fruit of a vibrant ecosystem where planters, distillers, mixologists, coopers, industrialists and scientists meet. This 2025 edition will also bring together key players from the overseas territories – Guadeloupe, Martinique, Guyana, Réunion, French Polynesia, among others – whose traditions and innovations fuel the economy and influence of this dynamic sector. During this international event, round tables will be dedicated to the overseas territories, exploring their challenges and perspectives. www.therumsummit.com
WEST INDIES RUM DISTILLERY
You can now explore the secrets of Barbados rum at this historic distillery, founded in 1893 by George Stade.
Witness the passion and craftsmanship behind their award-winning rums, Planteray Rum and Stade’s Rum, and enjoy the results for yourself in cocktails and custom tastings. Cap off the experience at their exclusive Brighton Beach Deck and Bar. Learn the magical process of making rum on the island where rum was born! Tour the exclusive collection of historic stills in “Pot Still Alley”, including the oldest surviving pot still in the world. Peer inside our Distiller’s Vault, with its archives of recipes, blueprints and experiments from decades past, and witness the day-to-day workings of our distillery where our expert teams craft Stade’s and Planteray rums. Your immersion continues in our Ageing Bond warehouse with a tasting straight from the barrel, followed by a sampling of 4 rums on their Brighton Beach look-out deck. Savor the moment at the only distillery in Barbados situated right on the coast, steps from the sea. Tours are available Tuesday through Saturday, from 10:30 to 2:45.
https://stadesrumexperience.rezgo.com/
RAISING GLASSES - COLOURS OF RUM – BEDFORD PARK
Independent bottler Colours of Rum posted the following on Instagram: We’re beyond excited to be part of the Great IB Invasion of 2025! Big shoutout to our new US partner Raising Glasses for bringing Colours of Rum across the pond and into 42 states! To all our American rum fans: get ready for some serious liquid treasures — rare cask strength rums, unique single barrels, and all the good stuff we’ve been saving just for you. March is gonna be wild. Secure your bottles now, head over to Raising Glasses’ profile and lock in your favorites today!In addition to Colours of Rum, Raising Glasses will be bringing in rums from Bedford Park. Colours of Rum releases include 14-, 15- and 16-year-old Foursquare rums from Barbados, a 23-year-old from Guadeloupe, four rums (from two different classic stills) from Guyana, rums from Clarendon, Hampden and Long Pond distilleries from Jamaica and some 24-year-old Caroni rums from Trinidad. There is also an interesting blend from Jamaica that includes a 2005 Long Pond, a 2007 Monymusk, a 2005 New Yarmouth and a 2008 Worthy Park rum. Bedford Park rums include a 19-year-old Long Pond and a 23-year-old Hampden from Jamaica, a 25-year-old Caroni from Trinidad, a 19-year-old rum from Fiji and a 6-year-old rum from the French Antilles. These are all rums that we never have been able to get in the Unites States. For a complete list see https://docs.google.com/.../1FAIpQLSe0N1Q2Mvl.../viewform..., https://raisingglasses.com/
BUNDABERG
Drink Trade Magazine reported that Diageo’s Bundaberg Rum has relaunched its rum-bellion campaign ahead of next month’s spirits tax hike. For 2025, the campaign will expand beyond Queensland to also target certain NSW cities.
As it stands, $38.40 out of every $61.50 1L bottle of Bundaberg Rum is paid directly to the Australian Government in taxes. “Bundy is raising this issue on behalf of spirits drinkers across the country and hundreds of craft distillers,” said Amanda Lampe, Director of Corporate Relations at Diageo Australia and Chair of Bundaberg Distilling Co. “We’ve spoken to Bundy drinkers from towns across the eastern seaboard and they’re very aware of how much more it’s costing them to enjoy an occasional drink at the pub or in their homes. While the spirits tax isn’t the biggest pressure people are facing at the moment, they deserve to be able to enjoy their favorite drink at the end of a long working week, if that’s what they choose to do,” she said. Currently, Australian spirits producers are faced with tax increases every February and August. The upcoming 3 February increase will be the 76th tax hike in line with CPI inflation since automatic indexation was introduced by Keating in 1983. Australian Distillers Association CEO Paul McLeay believes the current taxation policy is thwarting the industry’s potential. “These twice-yearly spirits tax increases are holding back Australia’s 700 distilleries, many of them small businesses. There is enormous potential for Australian distillers to create jobs, exports, and attract foreign investment to become an industry to rival Australia’s proud wine industry, but we need the right policy settings.”” he said. The current spirit tax policy is also a proven factor contributing to inflation, as shown by the latest Australian Bureau of Statistics in its monthly CPI indicator. What’s more, the tax increases are directly resulting in reduced taxation revenue forecasts for spirits, beer, and wine as price hikes continue to reduce consumer demand. Bundaberg Rum is asking consumers and industry alike to join its ‘rum-bellion’ and send a message to Canberra that this tax on spirits has become too much to bear.
MONTANYA DISTILLERS
Montanya Distillers has announced the release of Montanya Pineapple Habanero Rum, a bold new addition to their award-winning lineup. With their first flavored rum release, they wanted to deliver the perfect balance of sweet and spice, balancing fruit-forward flavors with an earthy warmth of habanero while also maintaining Montanya’s unwavering commitment to sustainability. This exciting release was crafted with hopes of captivating adventurous spirits, from hardcore rum nerds and seasoned mixologists to rum-curious newcomers. Montanya Pineapple Habanero Rum showcases the seamless fusion of fresh pineapple sweetness with the fiery kick of habaneros. Crafted with their Platino rum as a base, the fruit was hand-selected, prepped, and steeped in-house ensuring vibrant flavors. Proofed with pure mountain spring water, this carefully executed process delivers a crisp, clean spirit with maximum flavor integrity and shelf stability without any artificial coloring or ingredients. Montanya is always searching for ways to innovate around their commitment to sustainability. They are proud to announce this release debuts Montanya’s new eco-friendly packaging, featuring 100% recycled glass through their new partnership with bottle manufacturer ByQuest. Every detail aligns with our mission, from plastic-free packaging design to labels printed on FSC-certified paper. https://www.montanyarum.com/
US ALCOHOL and TOBACCO TAX BUREAU
In its February 2022 report, Competition in the Markets for Beer, Wine, and Spirits, the US Department of the Treasury recommended the TTB start rule-making for the labelling of wines, spirits, and malt-based beverages with allergen and per-serving alcohol, calorie and nutrient content. On January 17th of this year, the TTB published two notices of its proposed rule-making online: Notice No. 237 refers to Alcohol Facts to be included on Beveridge labels and Notice No. 238 which would require that allergens be disclosed. Notice No. 237 proposes that all alcohol beverage containers bear an “Alcohol Facts” panel/label. The petition asked that the words “Alcohol Facts” be immediately followed by a consistent graphic symbol (for example, a beer mug, wine glass, or shot glass), followed by the number of drinks (servings) in the container. A serving would be defined as 12 fluid ounces of beer, 5 fluid ounces of wine, and 1.5 fluid ounces of 80-proof distilled spirits. The panel/label would also list alcohol content by volume (ABV), alcohol per serving and calories. Finally, the panel should list current definitions of moderate drinking for men and women published in the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, issued jointly by the Department of Health and Human Services and the Department of Agriculture. The proposed rules are open to comments for 90 days from the date TTB published the notices. https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/01/17/2025-00957/alcohol-facts-statements-in-the-labeling-of-wines-distilled-spirits-and-malt-beverages
