Rum in the News
BRISTOL SPIRITS
The latest offering from Bristol Spirits is New Yarmouth 2008 - Madeira Wood. The New Yarmouth Distillery, situated in Clarendon Parish, Jamaica is a site of quiet historical importance. Though less widely known than some of its island counterparts, it stands as a major contributor to the singular, expressive character of Jamaican Rum, particularly those renowned for their high-ester style. Among Rum connoisseurs, New Yarmouth has achieved near-cult status. Its products are celebrated for their powerful, distinctive profile, rich with the high-ester “funk” that defines traditional Jamaican Rum. This unmistakable character is shaped by extended fermentation and the use of specialized yeast strains. The year 2008 marked a notable turning point in the distillery’s ownership. At that time, it operated under a holding company with a majority stake in J. Wray & Nephew. Early that year, Trinidad-based CL Financial, the parent company of Angostura Distillery, assumed control, followed by the subsequent acquisition by Gruppo Campari in 2012. This Bristol Classic Rum, aged for sixteen years, is especially coveted, even more so as a single-cask release. Having arrived in the UK in 2016, it was immediately laid to rest in a used American oak ex-bourbon barrel, the classic choice for nurturing a bold, full-bodied spirit. Over six quiet years, it matured gracefully in their moisture rich warehouse, allowing its robust pot still nature to deepen while absorbing the cask’s gentle influence. In 2022, it underwent a second maturation in a Madeira wine cask. This is a thoughtful progression that introduced added richness and complexity. Bottled in Scotland toward the end of 2025 at a remarkably robust 57.4% ABV, this release is available only in very limited quantities. Bristol Spirits recently worked with Sweden’s Systemboygt to create an exclusive release, Jamaica 2013 – LROK. It is a single cask selection, aged 12 years in ex-bourbon wooden cask.
Wonderfully soft nose with much fruit and light oak influence combined into a long and deep style.
Palate well integrated with upfront fruit and light touches of well controlled wood leading to a depth of flavor carrying through to middle palate and a long lingering finish which stays in the mouth. Bottled in Scotland toward the end of 2025 at 55.1% ABV. https://www.bristolclassicrum.com/
GLOBAL DRINKS INTEL & WEST INDIES RUM & SPIRITS PRODUCER’S ASSOCIATION
Global Drinks Intel has announced a partnership between the Global Rum Awards 2027, part of the Global Drinks Awards, and the West Indies Rum & Spirits Producers’ Association (WIRSPA), marking a significant step in strengthening how rum is recognized and evaluated on the global stage. The collaboration brings together Global Drinks Intel’s awards platform and WIRSPA, widely recognized as the voice of the Caribbean rum industry, which represents producers across the region and works to promote Caribbean rum as a premium category. The partnership reflects a shared focus on ensuring that rum is represented with accuracy, credibility and relevance to today’s international drinks market. As part of the partnership, WIRSPA will support the development of category structures and provide input into judging, helping to ensure that the diversity of rum styles and production approaches is properly reflected. The organization will also promote the awards across its network, extending the reach of the program to producers throughout the Caribbean and beyond.
“We’re pleased to be working with WIRSPA to ensure the Global Rum Awards are built with the input and perspective the category deserves,” said Global Drinks Intel’s Chief Commercial Officer, James Houlder. “This is about creating a platform that reflects the realities of the global rum market and delivers credible recognition that producers can genuinely use.” WIRSPA CEO Vaughn Renwick added: “As the representative body for Caribbean rum producers, we welcome the opportunity to contribute to an awards program that reflects the diversity and quality of the category. This partnership supports the continued growth and recognition of Caribbean rum internationally.” Entries are now open for the Global Rum Awards 2027, with producers invited to submit products for assessment by an international panel of industry professionals. The awards aim not only to recognize excellence, but also to provide producers with exposure to buyers, distributors and decision-makers across the global drinks trade. https://globaldrinksawards.com/,
https://www.wirspa.com/
APPLETON ESTATE 51 YEAR OLD RUM
The Jamaica Observer reported that an avid rum collector has acquired one of the world’s rarest spirits, the ultra-rare Appleton Estate 51-year-old cask rum, one of just 25 bottles available globally. Following its purchase, the historic expression was delivered directly to the collector, marking a significant moment in the legacy of Jamaican rum. The collector was later joined by legendary Master Blender Dr. Joy Spence, who guided him through the meticulous rum-making process behind this exceptional liquid and shared the symbolism woven into every detail of the expression. Crafted in traditional copper pot stills and laid down on July 31, 1973, the rum has matured exclusively in Jamaica’s tropical climate for more than five decades, earning its place as the oldest tropically aged rum ever released. Dr. Spence also personally signed the bottle, underscoring its provenance and rarity. A true hallmark of Jamaican excellence and the craftsmanship of the people of Appleton Estate, this 51-year-old expression is more than a collector’s piece. It is a timeless treasure, an enduring symbol of passion, heritage, and the relentless pursuit of perfection.
https://www.appletonestate.com/
JOHNNY DEPP’S THREE HEARTS RUM
After years in development and months of anticipation following early previews, Three Hearts Rum, the super-premium Caribbean-inspired rum founded by longtime friends Johnny Depp and Bobby DeLeon, officially launched last month with the release of its inaugural expression. Inspired by Depp’s decades-long connection to the Caribbean and a shared respect for the people who sustain the region’s rum-making heritage, Three Hearts was created as both a tribute to the craft of rum and a celebration of the communities that have shaped its legacy. Depp has spent two decades in the Caribbean, where he developed a deep appreciation for the culture, craftsmanship, and traditions that define the region. Following the devastation caused by hurricanes across several Caribbean islands in recent years, Depp and DeLeon began discussing how they might create a spirit that not only honored traditional rum production but also supported and spotlighted the communities responsible for it. The result is Three Hearts, a super-premium rum developed slowly and intentionally, grounded in respect for the Caribbean’s rum-making traditions and the people behind them.
“Rum holds the history of the islands,” said Depp, co-founder of Three Hearts. “It’s shaped by the hands of the people who grow the cane, ferment the spirit and age it over time. Bobby and I wanted to create something that honored that tradition and the friendships that inspired it.” The inaugural expression of Three Hearts Rum is crafted in the Dominican Republic using time-honored rum-making methods. Aged for five years in ex-bourbon barrels with a touch of Oloroso influence, it is then recasked for an additional two years in ex-Cognac barrels, resulting in a seven-year-aged rum. The final expression is balanced and refined, showcasing the layered character and depth synonymous with Caribbean rum traditions. “We didn’t want to rush something into the world,” DeLeon said. “This rum represents years of patience and collaboration. Our goal was to create something that respected the heritage of Caribbean rum while sharing the spirit of the friendship that started it.” The storytelling behind Three Hearts extends beyond the liquid itself. The bottle was designed by Johnny Depp, incorporating symbolism drawn from his tattoos and personal philosophy. Embossed on the bottle is the flag of his island, made up of the tattoos on his body–each with personal meaning. A Skull is a reminder of life’s brevity, to live fully. A lightning bolt symbolizes enduring friendship. The number three represents new beginnings. Three hearts represent the loves of his life. Encircling the neck, a bracelet-style charm completes the design. At the base of the bottle, the brand’s guiding motto is inscribed: “No Fear. No Malice. No Envy.” While the inaugural release marks the first chapter for Three Hearts Rum, the founders envision a broader exploration of Caribbean rum traditions in the years ahead. Future expressions are planned to highlight the distinctive styles and cultural heritage of rum-making regions across the Caribbean. ThreeHearts.com.
CAPTAIN MORGAN
The Captain Morgan Sliced lineup is officially taking a mini vacation with its NEW Captain Morgan Sliced Colada Style Drink Variety Pack. Featuring Piña Colada flavors including classic Piña Colada, Strawberry, Mango and Passionfruit, each offering bringing a distinct flavor option together in one variety pack, each delivering a taste of the tropics. Built for easy sipping, each ready-to-drink beverage features bright, creamy, fruit-forward taste in every can. At the heart of the collection, Piña Colada delivers the classic blend of coconut and pineapple flavors, with a bright, tangy finish for a balanced, lightly sweet canned beverage made for sunny days. Mango Colada leans into juicy, ripe mango flavors layered over a creamy coconut flavor, offering a refreshing-tasting, easy-drinking option with a crisp finish. Passionfruit Colada brings a more vibrant profile, combining tangy passionfruit flavors with smooth coconut flavor for a slightly tart, fruit-forward sip. Rounding out the lineup, Strawberry Colada pairs a light coconut flavor with ripe strawberry notes, delivering a smooth, naturally sweet finish. “We know consumers are looking for simple ways to break from the everyday without overcomplicating the moment,” says Victoria David, Brand Director, RTD at Diageo. “Captain Morgan Sliced Colada brings that idea of embracing micro getaway moments to life through a range of refreshing-tasting, ready-to-enjoy flavors – making it easy to tap into a ‘Colada When You Wanna’ mindset anytime, anywhere.”
https://www.captainmorgan.com/
MONTANYA RUM
Montanya Rum is proud to announce strategic expansion into Texas (Dallas/Fort Worth & Houston) markets. The move positions Montanya to capitalize on accelerating premiumization trends within the spirits category, particularly in rum, where high-end offerings are growing between 8–12% annually. As consumers increasingly prioritize quality over price, with 47% of spirits drinkers reporting they are trading up, Montanya is aiming to reframe rum as a serious, craft-driven alternative to whiskey and tequila. Montanya is helping reshape that narrative. Owner and Master Distiller, Megan Campbell insights, “Montanya’s positioning as “American Mountain Rum” reflects both its terroir and philosophy; rum that celebrates effort, achievement, and elevation, not escape.” Founded in 2008 and proudly women-owned and led, Montanya is also a Certified B Corporation. Megan states, “We make rum at 8,888 feet because we love where we are. Being B Corp certified is how we make sure it stays that way. From sustainable sourcing to responsible production, we hold ourselves to a higher standard for the planet and its people.” To fit Megan’s grass roots, Louisiana sugarcane brings a little Southern soul to every batch. Renee Newton, Megan’s Partner, goes on to say, “Crafted at 8,888 feet, thin air slows things down (in a good way), snowmelt makes everything taste cleaner, this is Crested Butte spirit for people who understand that where something comes from changes what it becomes”. Strategic Texas Partnerships-Texas Spirits, a wine and spirits wholesaler, will oversee distribution across the state, while Frontline Beverage is its in-market sales team to support on- and off-premise growth in two of the state’s most dynamic metro areas, DFW and Houston. Houston based, Sean Richards, a Partner in Montanya Rum shares, “It’s an organic move for Montanya, as our community of supporters tends to flow between Colorado and Texas. Where vibes mesh with a love of wide-open spaces, celebrating wins with family and friends, or just winding down from a long day, our high mountain lens of rum culture connects.” Montanya Rum’s portfolio in Texas consists of Montanya Platino, barrel-aged and charcoal filtered for clarity; Montanya Oro, lightly aged;
Montanya Exclusiva, aged 3 years and finished in Syrah barrels; Montanya Valentia, aged 4 years and finished in rye whiskey barrels; and Montanya Pineapple Habanero, infused with real pineapple and peppers. https://www.montanyarum.com/
SAIL GP & GOSLINGS
SailGP, the most exciting racing on water, is adding a splash of island spirit to its global championship, announcing a new, three-season partnership with Bermuda’s own Goslings, the iconic rum and ginger beer producer synonymous with the Dark ’n Stormy. The deal, which runs through to the end of the 2028 season, will see Goslings become the Official Rum and Ginger Beer Supplier across select events, kicking off on home waters at next month’s Apex Group Bermuda Sail Grand Prix (May 9–10). For SailGP, the partnership feels less like a sponsorship and more like a homecoming. Bermuda has long been one of the league’s most electric venues, and Goslings, a family-run business with more than 200 years of history on the island, is woven into the fabric of that experience. “This partnership will bring a new dimension to our events, particularly in Bermuda, where Goslings is such an integral part of the local culture,” said SailGP Chief Revenue Officer Ben Johnson. That “dimension” will be felt most vividly inside the Race Stadium, where Goslings will anchor a series of fan activations designed to keep the energy high on and off the water. Dedicated bar experiences will serve up the brand’s signature drinks, including the Dark ’n Stormy, the storm-cloud-in-a-glass cocktail said to have been named by a sailor, as F50s racers fly past at speeds exceeding 100 km/h. The brand will also feature across SailGP’s premium hospitality offering, from the vibrant VELA Beach Club to the top-tier Adrenaline Lounge, further blending high-performance racing with elevated, festival-style experiences. Goslings President and CEO E. Malcolm Gosling sees the partnership as a natural alignment. “While they create excitement on the water, we create it in the barrel,” he said. “It’s a perfect match.” Beyond Bermuda, Goslings will expand its SailGP footprint with four events in 2027 and a further four in 2028, as the championship continues to scale its global calendar and fan experience. https://sailgp.com/,
https://goslings.com/
RUM ISLAND FESTIVAL 2026
This Summer, Atlanta will become a major meeting point for Caribbean culture with the debut of Rum Island Festival 2026. The inaugural event takes place on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at Piedmont Park Promenade, bringing music, premium rum culture, food and community impact into one high-energy experience.
Headlined by Dancehall heavyweight Aidonia and rising Caribbean star Ayetian, the festival will spotlight both the legacy and future of Caribbean music. Trinidadian Soca artist Melick and Brooklyn-born Soca artist Added Rankin will also perform, with more surprise acts to be announced. Built around the ethos “Culture. Community. Rum.”, Rum Island Festival arrives as Dancehall, Soca, Afrobeats and Reggaeton continue to influence global sound. The one-day event is expected to welcome 5,000 to 8,000 attendees, including young professionals, creatives, tastemakers and Caribbean diaspora communities. Piedmont Park will transform into a multi-zone destination with eight hours of live performances, DJ sets, rum tastings, cocktail activations, immersive lounges and a Caribbean food village. The festival will also support Her Village Inc, a nonprofit helping families experiencing poverty. A portion of ticket proceeds will benefit the organization, alongside an on-site donation drive for diapers and period essentials.
https://www.rumislandfest.com/
DENIZEN RUM
Since its inception in 2010, Denizen Rum has invited spirit lovers to explore the world of Caribbean rum through a selection of award-winning blends from different island origins. With the launch of The Wander Series, Denizen takes a deeper, richer, and more exclusive dive into single origin Caribbean rums with cask finishes, kicking off the series with Denizen’s Single Origin Edition Jamaican Rum Finished in Port Casks. This new expression is crafted from four exceptional Jamaican rums, both pot and column-distilled, and matured for a minimum of eight years in American white oak barrels previously used for whiskey and bourbon. The rums are then expertly married and finished in ex-Port casks for at least three months, adding rich layers of depth, complexity, and a refined, creamy finish. “A rum of this caliber can stand beside some of the world’s best whiskies as a spirit to sip and savor,” says Gerry Ruvo, owner of Denizen Rum. “Hotaling & Co. is known for its portfolio of some of the world’s finest whiskies, and we’re confident that Denizen’s Wander Series of Single Origin rums will reveal how the same attention to production details and artistry achieves an equally exceptional spirit as some of the finest single malt whiskies coveted today.” “As rum is the most diverse spirit in the world, produced in nearly 80 countries, the immense variety in production methods and styles can be overwhelming,” explains rum expert Martin Cate, owner of San Francisco’s acclaimed Smuggler’s Cove. “The Denizen Wander Series continues the positive trend of clearly communicating origin, production, aging, and finishing to the consumer. This Jamaican release offers a rich and engaging medium-bodied Jamaican rum elevated with a harmonious and well-integrated port cask finish.”
https://denizenrum.com/
