The Origins of Cuban Rum

Written By Kaan Buyukkopru

The story of Cuban Rum begins with the introduction of sugar cane to Cuba by Christopher Columbus in 1493. The island’s exceptional climate and fertile soil created ideal conditions for sugar cane cultivation, leading to the development of a thriving rum industry. By 1848, the continuous column still distillation method had been introduced, marking the beginning of the now-famous Cuban style of rum production.

The Essence of Cuban Rum

At the heart of Cuban Rum’s production is the use of top-quality molasses, sourced from the best sugar cane. This molasses is mixed with pure spring water and fermented with unique yeast to start the transformation into rum. The distillation process, conducted in specially designed columns, ensures only the heart of the spirit is selected, resulting in a light and elegant aguardiente, the base for all Havana Club rums.

Ageing and Blending

Cuban rums undergo a meticulous ageing process in white oak barrels, previously used for bourbon and whisky. This process imparts different colors, aromas, and complexities to the rum, depending on the age and character of the wood. The ageing process is either static, where rum remains in the same barrel, or dynamic, where rum is progressively blended as it matures, creating a rich and layered final product.

Make it stand out

The Maestros del Ron Cubano

The guardians of Havana Club’s tradition and quality are the Maestros del Ron Cubano. These master blenders undergo up to fifteen years of training, passing down their expertise from generation to generation. The Maestros’ role includes selecting and blending rum bases, ensuring each batch meets the highest standards of quality and embodies the spirit of Cuba.

Signature Expressions of Havana Club

  1. Havana Club Añejo 3 Años: A blend aged for a minimum of three years, perfect for cocktails like Daiquiris and Mojitos. It offers a balance of lightness and flavor, with hints of vanilla and caramel.

  2. Havana Club Especial: Double aged in white oak barrels, this rum is smooth and balanced, ideal for Cuba Libres. It has a rich aroma with soft notes of vanilla.

  3. Havana Club Cuban Spiced: Combining double-aged rum with exotic flavors and spices, this rum is perfect for mixing with cola or ginger beer, offering a tropical and sweet palate.

  4. Havana Club Añejo 7 Años: Created by Don José Navarro, this rum uses a continuous ageing process, resulting in deep, layered flavors. It’s ideal for sipping neat or in classic cocktails.

  5. Havana Club Smoky: Finished in malt whisky barrels from Islay, Scotland, this rum has a distinctive smoky finish, making it a unique crossover for rum and whisky enthusiasts.

  6. Havana Club Selección de Maestros: A collaboration of the Maestros del Ron Cubano, this rum is matured in specially selected barrels and bottled straight from the barrel at 45% ABV, showcasing a rich and intense character.

Havana Club is not just a rum; it’s a celebration of Cuban culture and creativity. Through initiatives like Havana Cultura, Havana Club collaborates with artists and creatives, showcasing Cuba’s brightest talents on a global stage. This commitment to culture and creativity is reflected in every bottle, making Havana Club a true ambassador of Cuba’s vibrant spirit.

Kaan Buyukkopru