Tag Archives: rum

zacapa rum

Zacapa Rum & the Cuba Libre

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Zacapa Rum is crafted in the highlands of Guatemala, aged at an altitude of 7,545 feet above sea level. This unique aging process, known as “aging above the clouds,” allows the rum to develop a deeper aroma and richer layers of flavor. The cooler temperatures and thinner air at this altitude slow down the aging process, resulting in a smoother, more complex rum.

Solera Aging

One of the key elements that set Zacapa apart is its use of the Sistema Solera method. This traditional Spanish aging process involves blending rums of different ages in a series of barrels that previously held robust American whiskies, sherries, and fine wines. The result is a harmonious blend of flavors that include notes of caramel, vanilla, cocoa, and dried fruit.

Master Blender’s Touch

Behind every bottle of Zacapa is the expertise of Master Blender Lorena Vásquez. Her meticulous attention to detail and passion for rum-making ensure that each batch of Zacapa maintains its high quality and distinctive character. Lorena’s innovative approach and dedication have earned Zacapa numerous awards and a loyal following among rum enthusiasts.

A Legacy of Excellence

Since its creation in 1976 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the town of Zacapa, this rum has become a symbol of Guatemalan craftsmanship and tradition. Its commitment to quality and innovation continues to set Zacapa apart in the world of premium spirits.

Cheers to discovering the magic of Zacapa!

Zacapa & the Cuba Libre

The Cuba Libre is a cocktail with beautiful history and simple elegance, and has been a favorite for over a century. Originating in Havana around the early 1900s, this drink was born out of a celebration of Cuba’s independence from Spain. The name “Cuba Libre” translates to “Free Cuba,” a toast to freedom that has become synonymous with this refreshing cocktail.

The classic recipe is straightforward:

  • 1/4 of fresh lime juice
  • 2 oz of Zacapa rum
  • top-off with Mexican Coca-Cola
  • build in a highball glass and garnish with a lime wheel

The lime juice adds a zesty kick that balances the sweetness of the cola, while the rum provides a smooth, tropical base. Served over ice in a highball glass and garnished with a lime wedge, the Cuba Libre is both simple and sophisticated.

Whether you’re toasting to freedom or simply enjoying a sunny afternoon, the Cuba Libre is a timeless choice that never goes out of style.

Walk the Line: Cockspur

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cockspur rum

Cockspur is a rum you’ll see quite a bit of throughout the world (they have pretty wide distribution), but I hadn’t really run across it here in the U.S. until I started doing some homework for a recent rum+cigar pairing event I hosted.

Dating back to 1884 in Barbados, Cockspur has a pretty varied catalog of rums that will cover you for about any type of rum you may need, and because of this, I think they’ve earned a deserved place in our Walk the Line series.

Here’s a brief summary of each, pictured from left to right above:

Cockspur Overproof. So there’s really only 2 uses for overproof rum, which in this case clocks in at 65% ABV. Some tiki recipes use it as an ingredient, but mostly it’s the think you put in a volcano glass to light on fire in the middle. At $20 a bottle, Cockspur overproof is overwhelmingly butterscotch on both the nose and palate, but it’s not really meant to drink by itself.

Cockspur Fine. Let’s call this “regular” Cockspur. Aged a little bit, this rum has a cinnamon-and-sugar candy taste that has very little alcohol burn. It is a great fit for cocktails and is even good enough at $15-20 to sip on.

Cockspur Spiced. Spiced rums are my favorite choice for rum-and-Cokes, and Cockspur is one I haven’t tried before. The spice you’ll find here is really a Christmasy clove experience in the scent, but it’s surprisingly watery and sweet in the finish. In the $15 range, try this one if you love cloves.

Cockspur Old Gold. Now we’re getting into the truly aged Cockspurs. At 5 years old, this is a spicier rum than Fine, with some nutty banana flavors meeting the woody spice of the barrel. Definitely a sipping rum at $20-25 a bottle, this is a definite middle ground between the sweet Fine and the woody VSOR 12.

Cockspur VSOR 12. “Very Special Old Reserve” is a blend of rums up to 12 years old, and is spicier still than Old Gold. Almost apple-like in both flavor and nose, Cockspur VSOR 12 was the runaway favorite at our cigar pairing event and it’s only $30 a bottle. A great cigar pairer and a fun choice for a whiskey drinker who’s looking to experiment with aged rums, too.