Rum in the News Image Title.
ANGOSTURA
The Trinidad & Tobago Guardian has reported that after an almost year-long investigation, Genevieve Jodhan has resigned as CEO of Anggostura. The paper stated that Jodhan, who has been on administrative leave since last October, was the subject of two separate audits which examined the award of contracts amounting to over one million dollars to MH Tactical Response Group, New Order Security Services and Corporate Asset Protection, all aligned to Sgt Mark Hernandez, a key member of the Special Operations Response Team, a unit of the T&T Police Service. While Jodhan was empowered to authorize contracts up to the sum of $500,000 without board approval, the contracts under review exceeded that sum and were not in keeping with a directive of the board. According to the company’s procurement practice, it was usual to invite three tenders for public contracts to ensure transparency. The company has appointed Executive Manager Operations, Ian Forbes, to act as CEO as the company begins the process to find a suitable replacement. http://www.angostura.com
MOUNT GAY
Mount Gay has announced the appointment of Trudiann Branker as its new Master Blender. Trudiann has been a key member of Mount Gay’s Quality Assurance team and has worked very closely with Allen Smith, retiring Master Blender. A graduate of The Siebel Institute and the Institute of Brewing and Distilling, Branker adds more than 11 years working in the spirits industry. In a Facebook post, Smith said “After over 25 years of devotion to the magnificent brand that is Mount Gay, an important chapter in my life is coming to a close. When I became Master Blender in 2005, it was the pinnacle of my career; a true recognition of my work and dedication. Then, in 2009, I had the pleasure of experiencing the launch of one of my greatest creations: Mount Gay 1703 Master Select. Today, I leave with an enormous sense of pride. In all these years, I have always been committed to serving Mount Gay by ensuring the excellence of our rums are looked after with great care. Before I go, I would like to warmly welcome our new Master Blender, as she steps into my position ensuring the longevity of our incomparable Mount Gay Rum. For a Master Blender, there is nothing more satisfying than to see your work perpetuated by somebody that you have trained and familiarized with the techniques and secrets which have shaped our success. She has big shoes to fill, but I’m confident her passion, dedication and love for Mount Gay rum will shine for years to come.” Branker responded in her own post: “It is an honor for me to follow in Allen’s footsteps. It is from him that I learnt the tremendous savoir-faire which allows us to create one of the best rums in the world every day. It is with great pride that I become Mount Gay’s Master Blender, and I humbly join this prestigious line to keep Mount Gay going, to create new treasures, expand our rums and invent new blends.” www.mountgayrum.com
LAMB'S SPICED RUM
Pernod Ricard UK is relaunching Lamb’s Spiced Rum with a new design and more golden liquid. The new design will increase awareness amongst younger consumers with its bold, vibrant and eye-catching new label, which Pernod Ricard hopes will stand- out at the point of purchase and behind the bar. The design targets a younger audience of men and women, aged 18-28 years old, giving Lamb’s Spiced the opportunity to reinvent itself as a bold and playful brand for those wanting to try a new Spiced Rum. The brand’s heritage has been maintained through references to founder, Alfred Lamb, and the bottle’s unique, hexagonal shape, which is a huge differentiator against competitors. Toni Ingram, Head of Marketing for Lamb’s Navy Rum, says: “The new look for Lamb’s Spiced is a clear break from the existing branding with edgy and rebellious aspects, which will appeal to a younger adult audience who we know are seeking experiences and are open to taking risks. We’re not shying away from the fact the new label aims to recruit more females into a rapidly growing segment for the rum category. Consumer feedback to date has been highly positive and the new bottle has a clear place at the center of social occasions.” http://www.lambsnavyrum.com/
BACARDI
Bacardi rum is ushering in the spring season with the launch of its most refreshing flavor innovation yet, Bacardi Lime. Regarded as one of the top choices for fruit infusions in beverages and the most popular fruit purchased to be paired with rum, lime was the obvious choice for the new Bacardi flavor innovation. “As soon as the weather warms up, people are ready to take their drinks outside, whether it is for an outdoor barbecue, party on the beach or happy hour on a rooftop bar, Bacardi Lime is the perfect complement to these spring and summertime occasions,” said Roberto Ramirez Laverde, VP, Bacardi for North America. “We have watched the flavor space grow year after year and we know that consumers are going to embrace this new infused rum, especially when they’re on the hunt for a refreshing new cocktail.” Just like the other flavors, Bacardi Lime begins with a base of Bacardi Superior white rum and is then infused with natural lime flavors, providing an intense flavor with aromas of lime zest and natural bright citrus notes. For those looking for a lower calorie cocktail alternative, one ounce of Bacardi Lime, when mixed with soda, is only 74 calories. www.bacardi.com
MONTANYA DISTILLERS
Montanya Distillers is now part of the BigFish platform, an innovative way for consumers to buy craft spirits made in the U.S. and around the world. Many craft brands are not sold in local liquor stores due to distribution laws making it prohibitive, which means many liquor stores mainly carry mainstream products. BigFish strives to blow the lid off this current model through its mobile platform and its rigorous vetting process. The platform makes it easier for consumers to shop for and learn about craft spirits and then have the product delivered to their home. Currently, BigFish is only available for Illinois residents, however Florida is opening up by the end of the year. It also hopes to ship to numerous other states by early next year. “BigFish is really exemplary of a new way of selling alcohol in the U.S.,” noted Karen Hoskin, Montanya’s co-founder, owner and CEO. “They are focused on craft distillers and taking an entirely new approach. Typically, we buy spirits by walking into a store. What is on the shelf is what you get, and it can be hard for retailers to take chances on smaller brands when shelf space is tight. You don’t get much information except what is on the label. BigFish provides deeper background about each distillery they carry, as well as recipes. It’s such an informed way to buy, which we appreciate as a small producer.” BigFish currently offers Montanya’s Oro, Platino, and Exclusiva. Exclusiva is a limited release, which had only been available in Colorado, however, BigFish opens the market, giving people an additional way to buy the rum. Montanya barrel ages Exclusiva for three years, two-and-a- half in an American White Oak barrel that previously aged Colorado whiskey. “At BigFish, our mission is to provide consumers with unprecedented access to the finest craft spirits available from independent distillers,” said Michael Weiss, COO, and Founder of BigFish. “Partnering with Montanya is a giant step forward for us in that regard. With their dedication to the process of making rum, not to mention the superior quality of the spirits they produce, Montanya is a prime example of the excellence we strive to provide for our customers.” MontanyaRum.com; https://bfspirits.com.
CAMPARI UK
For the first time ever, Campari UK launches Meet the Masters, a bespoke spirits-world experience that brings together more than 140-years of talent and expertise from four internationally-renowned and respected Master Blenders and Distillers to one luxurious London location, where guests will immerse themselves in unrivaled knowledge of spirits and cocktails. From may 14th to 16th, the Master Distillers and Blenders behind Wild Turkey Bourbon, Appleton Estate Rum, Grand Marnier and Glen Grant Single Malt Scotch Whisky will unite to share their unparalleled knowledge and experience, a unique opportunity to learn from the best in the business. The speakers will be:
- Joy Spence of Appleton Estate Jamaica Rum, the first woman to hold the position of Master Blender in the spirits industry. In 2018, Joy was chosen to receive the National Medal for Science and Technology at the National Medal for Science and Technology and Innovation Awards in her home country of Jamaica, chosen from a field of Jamaican industry luminaries.
- Eddie Russell of Wild Turkey Bourbon, the son of legendary Master Distiller Jimmy Russell, and the third generation Russell to work at the Wild Turkey Distillery in Kentucky. In 2010, Eddie joined his father and other greats in the Bourbon industry when he was inducted into the illustrious Kentucky Bourbon Hall of FameTM.
- Patrick Raguenaud of Grand Marnier, whose family have been involved in the Cognac industry since 1627. Patrick joined Grand Marnier as Master Blender in 2004, overseeing the purchase, aging and blending of French Cognac, as well as the important production of the bitter orange essence.
- Dennis Malcolm of Glen Grant, who has worked at Glen Grant for over five decades and has over 45 years of experience in the whisky industry. Born in the grounds of Glen Grant in 1946, Dennis has worked for Glen Grant for over five decades and is one of the longest serving Master Distillers in Scotland.
Taking place at Carlton House Terrace in London’s Mayfair, Meet the Masters is an opportunity for guests from the drinks industry and beyond to learn about the heritage behind some of the most exciting spirit brands, as well as the Masters’ view on the latest industry trends. The event will offer tasting sessions with each Master, panel discussions, and the chance to explore each of the brands in a stunning setting reflecting each spirit’s unique personality. guests will learn the complexities and versatility of each brand, showcasing how Campari Group’s iconic drinks are the perfect addition to any cocktail. “Meet the Masters is an incredibly important moment in time; it’s a first- of-its-kind opportunity for the industry to meet four of the unique personalities and experts behind some of our most iconic, premium spirit brands, joined together for the first time ever in London,” says Brad Madigan, Managing Director at Campari UK. “With over 140-years of shared experience in the spirits industry between them, Meet the Masters is a must-attend for those who are serious about spirits, the stories behind them, and hungry to know more, in a unique and intimate setting. We can’t wait to open the doors to guests and raise a glass to our Master Distillers and Blenders!” http://www.campariuk.com/
BOUKMAN RHUM
It all began in 1791 at a secret ceremony, where Dutty Boukman swore an oath to liberty, sealed it with rum and sparked the revolution that freed Haïti. Two centuries later, Boukman honors Haiti’s rich tradition of Clairin Trempè, handcrafted spiced ‘rhum’. Boukman Botanical Rhum is derived from two of Haiti’s best rhum terroirs, the rich cane fields of Croix Des Bouquets in the south and the northern cane fields around Cap Haitian, scene of Dutty Boukman’s rebellion. Boukman uses only the best rhum agricole, distilled from the fresh juice of sugar cane, and infuse it with botanicals and barks, many of them native to Haiti and foraged in the wild. These include bois bandé, zou’devant, campèche, bois cochon, oak, allspice, clove, vanilla, bitter almond and cinnamon. The result is a dry, intense, and complex spirit with an elegant finish. Today, Boukman Botanical Rhum aims to help Haiti ‘get up, stand up’ and reinvests in programs to help the sugar cane communities live with dignity and fairness. From its inception, Boukman Rhum has been working in close partnership with Haiti Futur, a registered non- profit with branches in Haiti, the USA and France. A proportion of Boukman profits go directly to Haiti Futur, which is transforming education in Haiti with its digital classroom program. Haiti Futur is an organization that aims to develop quality education and support entrepreneurship in Haiti, while promoting Haitian culture. http://boukmanrhum.com/; (http://www.haitifutur.org)
DIPLOMATICO
Venezuelan rum brand, Diplomático, has released the third and final rum in its Distillery Collection series, No. 3 Pot Still rum. No. 3 will join No. 1 – Batch Kettle rum and No. 2 – Barbet rum in the series. Each of these rums demonstrates the different distillation methods used to create the brand’s range of rums. The copper pot stills, originally used in Scotland to make whisky, were brought to Diplomatico’s La Miel Distillery in 1959. Jon Lister, UK brand ambassador for Diplomático told Spirit Business “The rum is essentially a look behind the curtain to show the flavor profile behind the traditional range. It’s not to replace anything in our portfolio, it’s to support and showcase the traditional range.” http://rondiplomatico.com
TRADER VIC'S
Trader Vic’s has named Rhett Rosen as Chief Executive Officer of the iconic restaurant group. In his new role, Rosen will be responsible for all strategic development, brand innovation and leadership initiatives for the famed tiki brand’s expanding portfolio. Rosen will also oversee the continued growth of Trader Vic’s Mexican inspired brand, Señor Pico, with the new location set to open in Dubai later this year. “We are excited that Rhett has agreed to lead Trader Vic’s international portfolio, and are confident that his industry knowledge, strong leadership skills and extensive hospitality experience will usher in a new chapter for the brand,” said Charles C. Mcgettigan, Chairman. “Rhett’s deep understanding of two strategically important areas, brand identity and global market potential, makes him an ideal choice to drive innovation for the iconic 85-year old brand.” http://tradervics.com/
NEWFOUNDLAND DISTILLERY COMPANY
The Newfoundland Distillery Company has added another award to its trophy case, as the company’s Chaga Rum was named the best spiced rum in Canada at the World Rum Awards in London. Peter Wilkins, co-founder of the Clarke’s Beach Distillery, says the award is a special honor. “I think it’s a very big deal,” he said. “They don’t give that many medals out, because some of the competitions, they give a lot of medals out, whereas there, we were the only rum that won an award for the whole of Canada.” Wilkins said the rum from Guyana is infused with Chaga, a fungus that grows on birch trees, foraged from central Newfoundland. “It’s a bit like a mushroom, but more like a truffle and it grows on the bark and you can only harvest it in the winter when it’s dormant,” he said. “It gives a bit of earthiness and richness to the rum. We’ve had to call it a spiced rum because if you have any flavorings in it, you’ve got to define it, so it’s not really a spiced rum, it’s more like a new dark rum.” But the award is not the first accolade for the rum. Wilkins said the company’s Chaga rum and Aquavit both won silver medals this year at the San Francisco World Spirit Competition. https:// thenewfoundlanddistillery.com/
TANDUAY RUM
From among thousands of spirits across the globe, Tanduay Double Rum was judged as one of the best by the Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America and the 2019 San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC). Tanduay double rum received the gold medal from the Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America and the silver medal in the SFWSC. Almost 3,000 spirits joined the latter’s competition this year, the largest in its 19-year history. Lucio “Bong” Tan, president and chief operating officer of Tanduay Distillers, Inc. told the Manilla Standard “We are honored to receive these awards. They are testaments to our commitment to making world-class products and highlighting the craftsmanship of the Filipino.” Double Rum is a blend of 2 aged reserved components, 16-year-old rum and 5-year-old rum that are aged in the barrel for another 2 years and is produced in small batches. It is a “sipping rum” that belongs to the cognac level of spirits. “Tanduay Double Rum embodies the value of paying tribute to all the men and women behind Tanduay’s success, one that is distinctly Filipino. It is Filipino rum at its finest, one that is meticulously crafted and will surely satisfy the discerning taste of rum connoisseurs around the world,” Tan said. Tanduay has likewise received top honors for its other spirits. Tanduay White Rum and Tanduay Dark Rhum received the gold medal from the Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America and Tanduay Asian Rum Gold and Tanduay Boracay Cappuccino Flavored rum were awarded silver medals. The SFWSC likewise honored Tanduay Asian Rum Gold, Tanduay Asian Rum Silver, Tanduay Boracay Cappuccino Flavored rum, and Tanduay White Rum with silver medals. Both Tanduay Dark Rhum and Tanduay Boracay Coconut Flavored Rum received bronze medals. https://tanduay.com/
NELSON'S GREENBRIER DISTILLERY
English gin producer Nelson’s Distillery has bolstered its portfolio with the release of two exclusive rums. Each spirit is a blend of three individual rums, carefully handpicked from North American countries such as Barbados, Jamaica and the Dominican Republic. Neil Harrison, founder and master distiller, told of his delight ahead of the rums release. “We know that rum is the next big trend here in the UK, especially flavored rum,” explained Harrison. “As a forward thinking, proactive business, we wanted to ensure that our expansion not only includes the development of our signature gin range, but also places us firmly at the forefront of the is exciting new marketplace.” Botted at 42.5% ABV, the blend is aged in oak barrels for three years to establish a distinct aroma before being mixed with natural flavorings such as pineapple. https:// greenbrierdistillery.com/
