ABUELO - 12 years - 40%
Ron Abuelo is an iconic rum distillery located in the heart of Panama, globally recognized for the exceptional quality of its spirits. Born from three generations of family expertise, Ron Abuelo pays a vibrant tribute to Don José Varela Blanco, a pioneer who left Spain in 1908 to establish the first sugarcane plantation in Panama. This rich heritage enabled the production of the very first rum in 1936, positioning Ron Abuelo as a key player in the premium rum world.
The distillery rigorously manages its entire production process, from harvesting the sugarcane to bottling, ensuring authentic and consistent quality. The manufacturing process begins with the creation of a long-lasting base syrup called "miel de caña," obtained from freshly pressed cane juice. The water used comes from their own natural well, and yeasts are locally cultivated to perfectly control the fermentation of the sugarcane wine. Distillation is then carried out in a unique column still to preserve all the finesse and aromatic richness.
The young rums are patiently aged in small oak barrels that previously held American Bourbon, providing maturity with woody and vanilla notes. The most exclusive batches benefit from the traditional Solera method, offering exceptional aromatic complexity. After several years of aging, the barrels are carefully selected and blended into batches, then combined in a large barrel for ultimate harmonization. With a strength of about 65% coming out of the barrels, demineralized water is added down to 40%, along with a slight touch of sugar, to guarantee a balanced, rich, and refined tasting experience.
The Gran Reserva enjoys an average aging of 12 years, skillfully combining younger rums for freshness and liveliness with older batches, up to 19 and 22 years, to bring depth and aromatic complexity. This exceptional rum appeals to connoisseurs and enthusiasts seeking an authentic spirit of superior quality.