RON COLÓN Bridging the Worlds of Taste History and Culture

RON COLÓN RON COLÓN

Bridging the Worlds of Taste, History and Culture. By Marcy Gordon Bridging the Worlds of Ron, Rhum, Rum, no matter the name, the story is essentially the same. Sugarcane begat molasses, which begat rum, which kicked off a global obsession for the spirit that has ebbed and Taste, History and Culture. flowed for over 400 years. Today the modern masters of mixology look for authenticity in spirits By Marcy Gordon and Ron Colón is on a mission to produce an array of products that bridge the worlds of taste, history, and culture. In pursuit of that mission, Ron Colón debuted Ron Colón Salvadoreño, a 111 proof Dark Aged Rum. Next, they produced Ron Colón Coffee Infused Dark Aged Rum made with a coffee infusion of bourbon varietal coffee beans farmed and harvested in El Salvador. Now Ron Colón introduces a new addition to their spirit portfolio—Ron Colón RumRye a 50/50 split between rum and rye whiskey, showcasing both spirits side by side and creating a new category.

Ron, Rhum, Rum, no matter the name, the story is essentially the same. Sugarcane begat molasses, which begat rum, which kicked off a global obsession for the spirit that has ebbed and flowed for over 400 years. Today the modern masters of mixology look for authenticity in spirits and Ron Colón is on a mission to produce an array of products that bridge the worlds of taste, history, and culture.

In pursuit of that mission, Ron Colón debuted Ron Colón Salvadoreño, a 111 proof Dark Aged Rum. Next, they produced Ron Colón Coffee Infused Dark Aged Rum made with a coffee infusion of bourbon varietal coffee beans farmed and harvested in El Salvador. Now Ron Colón introduces a new addition to their spirit portfolio - Ron Colón RumRye a 50/50 split between rum and rye whiskey, showcasing both spirits side by side and creating a new category.

The RumRye blend is 50% Ron Colón Salvadoreño Dark Aged Rum and 50% 2017 American Straight 100% Rye Whiskey, bottled at 50% ABV, 100 Proof.

RumRye builds upon the heritage of early American distilling. Rum, the “noble spirit”, is considered to be one of the first spirits to be embraced as truly All-American as it gained a foothold in Colonial North America. Rye too is steeped in American history and George Washington himself was a famous early distiller of rye whiskey.

There was a time when rum was the most popular spirit in America. However, when heavy taxes on molasses were introduced in the mid 1700’s, it caused almost immediate decline in the rum industry. The gap that rum left gave space for a new spirit of choice - Rye. By the late 1700’s there were thousands of small whiskey distilleries in Pennsylvania, Maryland and the surrounding states. Rye was the grain of choice and rye whiskey rapidly grew in popularity.

The Ron Colón Salvadoreño rum used in RumRye is made from a special blend, creating a complex flavour profile. The blend includes a 6-year-old Salvadoran rum from Licorera Cihuatán distillery with aged and unaged pot-distilled rums from Worthy Park Estate, Monymusk and Hampden distilleries in Jamaica. By combining columndistilled and pot-distilled rums, the overall flavour offers contrasting characteristics that interact to create something quite unique.

The whiskey in RumRye is a 2017 American Straight 100% Rye Whiskey, a 4-year old straight whiskey produced from 100% rye to showcase the warm and rich spice of the grain. It’s aged in a charred new oak container, with #4 Char barrel a char level on the staves and #2 Char on the heads. The overall flavour is bold with distinctive honey like texture, fresh mint and floral notes.

“It was important to create a new style of spirit that showcased both rum and rye whiskey together,” says Felicity Gransden, Director of Flavour Innovation for Ron Colón.

The RumRye blend is 50% Ron Colón Salvadoreño Dark Aged Rum and 50% 2017 American Straight 100% Rye Whiskey, bottled at 50% ABV, 100 Proof. RumRye builds upon the heritage of early American distilling. Rum, the The use of rye is deliberate choice “noble spirit”, is considered to be one of for reasons both historic and delicious, the first spirits to be embraced as truly explains Gransden. All-American as it gained a foothold in Colonial North America. Rye too is “The rye we work with is 4-yearssteeped in American history and George old, it’s young, and punchy with plenty Washington himself was a famous early of spice and noticeable fresh mint. We distiller of rye whiskey. also chose to work with 100% rye grain, to celebrate this historic whiskey There was a time when rum was the most popular spirit in America. However, when grain and all the characteristics it could bring to RumRye.” heavy taxes on molasses were introduced The hybrid category is not new in in the mid 1700’s, it caused almost the spirits industry but Ron Colón immediate decline in the rum industry. seeks to break new ground. The gap that rum left gave space for a new spirit of choice—Rye. By the late 1700’s “Although hybrids have been there were thousands of small whiskey well established in the marketplace, distilleries in Pennsylvania, Maryland purists have always received them and the surrounding states. Rye was the with suspicion,” says Ron Colón cograin of choice and rye whiskey rapidly founder Pepijn Janssens. grew in popularity. “The idea behind RumRye was to The Ron Colón Salvadoreño rum used make a serious spirit that deserves in RumRye is made from a special blend, a place in the list of categories. As creating a complex flavor profile. The blend includes a 6-year-old Salvadoran rum from Licorera Cihuatán distillery with aged and unaged pot-distilled rums a new product in the marketplace, RumRye is a pure spirit brand and we aim to lead the opening of this new category. Our hope is to see others follow suit and maybe one day we from Worthy Park Estate, Monymusk can look back and say we were one and Hampden distilleries in Jamaica. of the first to do it.” By combining column-distilled and potINNOVATING TASTES 2021 BIN 19 AND FLAVOURS

distilled rums, the overall flavor offers contrasting characteristics that interact to create something quite unique. The whiskey in RumRye is a 2017 American Straight 100% Rye Whiskey, a 4-year old straight whiskey produced from 100% rye to showcase the warm and rich spice of the grain. It’s aged in a charred new oak container, with #4 Char barrel a char level on the staves and #2 Char on the heads. The overall flavor is bold with distinctive honey like texture, fresh mint and floral notes. “It was important to create a new style of spirit that showcased both rum and rye whiskey together,” says Felicity Gransden, Director of Flavor Innovation for Ron Colón. “Our aim during the blending process was

The RumRye blend is 50% Ron Colón to highlight the famous characteristics in Salvadoreño Dark Aged Rum and 50% both, the rich spice of rye and the fresh 2017 American Straight 100% Rye fruit and buttery element in the rum. By Whiskey, bottled at 50% ABV, 100 Proof. blending the two 50/50 we found that we could bring out the best in both, RumRye RumRye builds upon the heritage of starts with the incredible tropical nose of early American distilling. Rum, the “Our vision is to Ron Colón Salvadoreño Dark Aged Rum “noble spirit”, is considered to be one of the first spirits to be embraced as truly All-American as it gained a foothold showcase different flavors, industries and and finishes with the warming spice of rye.” in Colonial North America. Rye too is processes; blending two The use of rye is deliberate choice for steeped in American history and George styles together to create reasons both historic and delicious, Washington himself was a famous early distiller of rye whiskey. new experiences, both in a drink and in life.” explains Gransden. “The rye we work with is 4-years-old, it's young, and punchy with plenty of spice and noticeable There was a time when rum was the most - Pepijn Janssens fresh mint. We also chose to work with popular spirit in America. However, when 100% rye grain, to celebrate this historic heavy taxes on molasses were introduced whiskey grain and all the characteristics it in the mid 1700’s, it caused almost could bring to RumRye.” immediate decline in the rum industry. The gap that rum left gave space for a new The hybrid category is not new in the spirit of choice—Rye. By the late 1700’s spirits industry but Ron Colón seeks to there were thousands of small whiskey break new ground. “Although hybrids distilleries in Pennsylvania, Maryland have been well established in the and the surrounding states. Rye was the marketplace, purists have always received grain of choice and rye whiskey rapidly them with suspicion,” says Ron Colón cogrew in popularity. founder Pepijn Janssens. The Ron Colón Salvadoreño rum used “The idea behind RumRye was to make in RumRye is made from a special blend, a serious spirit that deserves a place in creating a complex flavor profile. The the list of categories. As a new product in blend includes a 6-year-old Salvadoran the marketplace, RumRye is a pure spirit rum from Licorera Cihuatán distillery brand and we aim to lead the opening with aged and unaged pot-distilled rums of this new category. Our hope is to see from Worthy Park Estate, Monymusk others follow suit and maybe one day we and Hampden distilleries in Jamaica. can look back and say we were one of the By combining column-distilled and pot- the first to do it.” 2021 BIN 19

distilled rums, the overall flavor offers contrasting characteristics that interact to create something quite unique. The whiskey in RumRye is a 2017 American Straight 100% Rye Whiskey, a 4-year old straight whiskey produced from 100% rye to showcase the warm and rich spice of the grain. It’s aged in a charred new oak container, with #4 Char barrel a char level on the staves and #2 Char on the heads. The overall flavor is bold with distinctive honey like texture, fresh mint and floral notes. “It was important to create a new style of spirit that showcased both rum and rye whiskey together,” says Felicity Gransden, Director of Flavor Innovation for Ron Colón. “Our aim during the blending process was

The RumRye blend is 50% Ron Colón to highlight the famous characteristics in Salvadoreño Dark Aged Rum and 50% both, the rich spice of rye and the fresh 2017 American Straight 100% Rye fruit and buttery element in the rum. By Whiskey, bottled at 50% ABV, 100 Proof. blending the two 50/50 we found that we could bring out the best in both, RumRye RumRye builds upon the heritage of starts with the incredible tropical nose of early American distilling. Rum, the “Our vision is to Ron Colón Salvadoreño Dark Aged Rum “noble spirit”, is considered to be one of showcase different and finishes with the warming spice of the first spirits to be embraced as truly All-American as it gained a foothold flavors, industries and rye.” in Colonial North America. Rye too is processes; blending two The use of rye is deliberate choice for steeped in American history and George styles together to create reasons both historic and delicious, Washington himself was a famous early distiller of rye whiskey. new experiences, both in a drink and in life.” explains Gransden. “The rye we work with is 4-years-old, it's young, and punchy with plenty of spice and noticeable There was a time when rum was the most - Pepijn Janssens fresh mint. We also chose to work with popular spirit in America. However, when 100% rye grain, to celebrate this historic heavy taxes on molasses were introduced whiskey grain and all the characteristics it in the mid 1700’s, it caused almost could bring to RumRye.” immediate decline in the rum industry. The gap that rum left gave space for a new The hybrid category is not new in the spirit of choice—Rye. By the late 1700’s spirits industry but Ron Colón seeks to there were thousands of small whiskey break new ground. “Although hybrids distilleries in Pennsylvania, Maryland have been well established in the and the surrounding states. Rye was the marketplace, purists have always received grain of choice and rye whiskey rapidly them with suspicion,” says Ron Colón cogrew in popularity. founder Pepijn Janssens. The Ron Colón Salvadoreño rum used “The idea behind RumRye was to make in RumRye is made from a special blend, a serious spirit that deserves a place in creating a complex flavor profile. The the list of categories. As a new product in blend includes a 6-year-old Salvadoran the marketplace, RumRye is a pure spirit rum from Licorera Cihuatán distillery brand and we aim to lead the opening with aged and unaged pot-distilled rums of this new category. Our hope is to see from Worthy Park Estate, Monymusk others follow suit and maybe one day we and Hampden distilleries in Jamaica. can look back and say we were one of the By combining column-distilled and pot- the first to do it.” 2021 BIN 19

distilled rums, the overall flavor offers contrasting characteristics that interact to create something quite unique. The whiskey in RumRye is a 2017 American Straight 100% Rye Whiskey, a 4-year old straight whiskey produced from 100% rye to showcase the warm and rich spice of the grain. It’s aged in a charred new oak container, with #4 Char barrel a char level on the staves and #2 Char on the heads. The overall flavor is bold with distinctive honey like texture, fresh mint and floral notes. “It was important to create a new style of spirit that showcased both rum and rye whiskey together,” says Felicity Gransden, Director of Flavor Innovation for Ron Colón. “Our aim during the blending process was to highlight the famous characteristics in both, the rich spice of rye and the fresh fruit and buttery element in the rum. By blending the two 50/50 we found that we could bring out the best in both, RumRye starts with the incredible tropical nose of

“Our vision is to Ron Colón Salvadoreño Dark Aged Rum showcase different and finishes with the warming spice of flavors, industries and rye.” processes; blending two The use of rye is deliberate choice for styles together to create reasons both historic and delicious, new experiences, both in explains Gransden. “The rye we work a drink and in life.” with is 4-years-old, it's young, and punchy with plenty of spice and noticeable - Pepijn Janssens fresh mint. We also chose to work with 100% rye grain, to celebrate this historic whiskey grain and all the characteristics it could bring to RumRye.” The hybrid category is not new in the

“Our vision is to spirits industry but Ron Colón seeks to break new ground. “Although hybrids showcase different have been well established in the flavours, industries and marketplace, purists have always received them with suspicion,” says Ron Colón coprocesses; blending two founder Pepijn Janssens. styles together to create “The idea behind RumRye was to make new experiences, both in a serious spirit that deserves a place in a drink and in life.” the list of categories. As a new product in the marketplace, RumRye is a pure spirit - Pepijn Janssens brand and we aim to lead the opening of this new category. Our hope is to see others follow suit and maybe one day we can look back and say we were one of the the first to do it.”

“Our aim during the blending process was to highlight the famous characteristics in both, the rich spice of rye and the fresh fruit and buttery element in the rum. By blending the two 50/50 we found that we could bring out the best in both, RumRye starts with the incredible tropical nose of Ron Colón Salvadoreño Dark Aged Rum and finishes with the warming spice of rye.”

Ron Colón continues to innovate within the rum space across industries and categories to create compelling new flavour experiences for both bartenders and consumers. RumRye opens with a nose of tropical fruit

with sticky banana, pineapple, fresh mint and warm honey and a hint of spice. The palate is bold, with notes a candied fruit, orange blossom, rich, bright and distinctive spice of a classic rye balanced with the natural sweetness in the rum. The finish is dry, with notes of citrus and soft mint.

The RumRye flavour profile is well suited for cocktail creations that enhance the citrus components of the rum and the warm grounding notes of the rye. The Licorera Cihuatán distillery in El Salvador where Ron Colón sources the rum is part of one of the oldest and largest sugar producers in the country since 1920. The local sugarcane is run through 100-yearold sugar cane mill and converted to molasses. The molasses are fermented for 36 hours with proprietary yeasts and then distilled in a modern multicolumn still, then aged in bourbon white oak barrels. The result is a rich and flavourful balance of spicy caramel and milk chocolate with notes of roasted almonds. ORIGIN AND INSPIRATIONS

Ron Colón’s journey started when founders Thurman Wise and Pepijn Janssens had the idea to create their own rum brand, a concept they discussed for over a year. Then in 2018, during a 22-day, 16-country barhop across Latin America, El Salvador captured their attention.

El Salvador is the smallest country in Central America, bordered by Honduras and Guatemala and the Pacific Ocean. Rich in flora and fauna, the mountain terrain boasts fertile soils composed of volcanic ash, lava, and alluvium which host an array of agricultural products including of course coffee and fine sugar cane. Famous for magnificent volcanoes, and world-class surf spots, El Salvador is also growing as an eco tourism destination. Today, modern El Salvador leaves behind a war torn past and works to maintain a strong commitment to democracy. And so, the story began, a rum passion project with origins in El Salvador and the ambition to create a high-proof rum designed with bartenders in mind.

Ron Colón is not only a

with notes a candied fruit, orange where Ron Colón sources the rum is part collaboration of flavours and spirits, but also collaboration of imagination and vision by an experienced group of creative people who bring a wealth of industry expertise to the brand. Under the direction of co-founders Thurman Wise and Pepijn Janssens who manage Brand Direction and Commercial Management respectively, a team was assembled that consists of Felicity Gransden, Flavour Innovation, Chris Rehberger spearheading Graphic Design, Tobias Jegenstram in Social Media, Ian Matthews in charge of Global Distribution, Max Abbott in Brand Management, and Katy Wallace head of USA Sales and Distribution ORIGIN AND INSPIRATIONS Management. Ron Colón’s journey started when founders HERITAGE AND HISTORY REFLECTED As with prior releases, Ron Colón places the focus squarely on what is in the bottle. Thurman Wise and Pepijn Janssens had IN PACKAGING the idea to create their own rum brand, Design is an integral facet of the of one of the oldest and largest sugar producers in the country since 1920. The local sugarcane is run through 100-yearold sugar cane mill and converted to a concept they discussed for over a year. Then in 2018, during a 22-day, 16-country barhop across Latin America, El Salvador captured their attention. brand as well. Ron Colón honours the heritage and history of El Salvador in their branding and packaging. The labels and closure tell a story and brand identity is based on the old currency of El Salvador. In the early 16th century the Spanish Conquistador Pedro de Alvarado LOOKING FORWARD, BRIDGING WORLDS “Our philosophy of bridging worlds encompasses a postmodern approach in the spirit industry. Our goal is to subvert the mainstream conventions of molasses. The molasses are fermented for 36 hours with proprietary yeasts and then El Salvador is the smallest country in Central America, bordered by Honduras named the newly discovered province of El Salvador (which translates directly to “The Savior”) after Jesus Christ. In 1892, the government of classification and characterization, and to test the audience's suspension of disbelief. We like to break down the divide distilled in a modern multi-column still, then aged in bourbon white oak barrels. The result is a rich and flavorful balance of spicy caramel and milk chocolate with notes of roasted almonds. and Guatemala and the Pacific Ocean. Rich in flora and fauna, the mountain terrain boasts fertile soils composed of volcanic ash, lava, and alluvium which host an array of agricultural products President Carlos Ezeta decided that the Salvadoran peso be called “Colón” in homage to Christopher Columbus. The word “Colón” has nuanced meaning in El Salvador. It can refer to Columbus and is the unit of currency. When the founders decided to make a rum brand they noticed between rum and whiskey with the goal of creating something that does not abide by traditional expression. Postmodernism is interested in contradiction, fragmentation, and instability and is often focused on the destruction of hierarchies including of course coffee and fine sugar that historically rum was often used as currency, and it often tells a rich and boundaries,” says Janssens. story about a culture and country. cane. Famous for magnificent volcanoes, Ron Colón RumRye is a continuation And what does the future hold for the and world-class surf spots, El Salvador is of that story connecting countries, cultures and currency as well. The premium rum category? According to also growing as an eco tourism destination. Today, modern El Salvador leaves behind bottle incorporates the old “Colónes” banknotes and currency in the labels and the unique coin that is placed in the cap of each bottle. Gransden, growth in the premium rum category doesn't look to be slowing down. “It’s driven by consumers who are a war torn past and works to maintain a The packaging was developed with looking to drink less but better, this has strong commitment to democracy. And so, the story began, a rum passion project with an eye towards sustainability and the choice was made to steer clear of fancy moulded bottle designs and seek encouraged interest in quality, origin of ingredients and stories behind the rums out the most affordable glass solution they enjoy. Bartenders are looking to the origins in El Salvador and the ambition in the industry. The wine bottle glass dark and aged rum categories for their to create a high-proof rum designed with complexity of flavor. There is a wonderful “The Savior”) after Jesus Christ. In 1892, bartenders in mind. variety within the rum category even just within the production and process of rums

Ron Colón continues to innovate within the rum space across industries and categories to create compelling new flavor experiences for both bartenders and consumers. RumRye opens with a nose of tropical fruit with sticky banana, pineapple, fresh mint and warm honey and a hint of spice. The palate is bold, with notes a candied fruit, orange flavors and spirits, but also collaboration of imagination and vision by an experienced group of creative people who bring a wealth of industry expertise to the brand. Under the direction of co-founders Thurman Wise and Pepijn Janssens who manage Brand Direction and Commercial Management respectively, a team was assembled that consists of Felicity Gransden, Flavor Innovation, Chris Rehberger spearheading Graphic Design, Tobias Jegenstram in Social Media, Ian Matthews in charge of Global Distribution, Max Abbott in Brand Management, and Katy Wallace head of USA Sales and Distribution Management. HERITAGE AND HISTORY REFLECTED IN PACKAGING Design is an integral facet of the brand as well. Ron Colón honors the heritage and history of El Salvador in their branding and packaging. The labels and closure tell a story and brand identity is based on the old currency of El Salvador. In the early 16th century the Spanish Conquistador Pedro de Alvarado named

sweetness in the rum. The finish is dry, with notes of citrus and soft mint. The RumRye flavor profile is well suited for cocktail creations that enhance the citrus components of the rum and the warm grounding notes of the rye. The Licorera Cihuatán distillery in El Salvador where Ron Colón sources the rum is part local sugarcane is run through 100-yearold sugar cane mill and converted to molasses. The molasses are fermented for 36 hours with proprietary yeasts and then distilled in a modern multi-column still, then aged in bourbon white oak barrels. The result is a rich and flavorful balance of spicy caramel and milk chocolate with notes of roasted almonds. ORIGIN AND INSPIRATIONS Ron Colón’s journey started when founders Thurman Wise and Pepijn Janssens had the idea to create their own rum brand, a concept they discussed for over a year. Then in 2018, during a 22-day, 16-country barhop across Latin America, El Salvador El Salvador is the smallest country in Central America, bordered by Honduras and Guatemala and the Pacific Ocean. Rich in flora and fauna, the mountain terrain boasts fertile soils composed of volcanic ash, lava, and alluvium which host an array of agricultural products including of course coffee and fine sugar cane. Famous for magnificent volcanoes, and world-class surf spots, El Salvador is

flavors and spirits, but also collaboration of imagination and vision by an experienced group of creative people who bring a wealth of industry expertise to the brand. Under the direction of co-founders Thurman Wise and Pepijn Janssens who manage Brand Direction and Commercial Management respectively, a team was assembled that consists of Felicity Gransden, Flavor Innovation, Chris Rehberger spearheading Graphic Design, Tobias Jegenstram in Social Media, Ian Matthews in charge of Global Distribution, Max Abbott in Brand Management, and Katy Wallace head of USA Sales and Distribution Management. HERITAGE AND HISTORY REFLECTED IN PACKAGING Design is an integral facet of the brand as

blossom, rich, bright and distinctive spice of a classic rye balanced with the natural sweetness in the rum. The finish is dry, with notes of citrus and soft mint. The RumRye flavor profile is well suited for cocktail creations that enhance the citrus components of the rum and the warm grounding notes of the rye. The Licorera Cihuatán distillery in El Salvador where Ron Colón sources the rum is part “The Savior”) after Jesus Christ. In 1892, the government of President Carlos Ezeta decided that the Salvadoran peso be called “Colón” in homage to Christopher Columbus. The word "Colón" has nuanced meaning in El Salvador. It can refer to Columbus and is the unit of currency. When the founders decided to make a rum brand they noticed that historically rum was often used as currency, and it often tells a rich story about a culture and country. Ron Colón RumRye is a continuation of that story connecting countries, cultures and currency as well. The bottle incorporates the old “Colónes” banknotes and currency in the labels and the unique coin that is placed in the cap of each bottle.

of one of the oldest and largest sugar producers in the country since 1920. The local sugarcane is run through 100-yearold sugar cane mill and converted to molasses. The molasses are fermented for 36 hours with proprietary yeasts and then distilled in a modern multi-column still, then aged in bourbon white oak barrels. The result is a rich and flavorful balance of spicy caramel and milk chocolate with notes of roasted almonds. flavors and spirits, but also collaboration of imagination and vision by an experienced group of creative people who bring a wealth of industry expertise to the brand. Under the direction of co-founders Thurman Wise and Pepijn Janssens who manage Brand Direction and Commercial Management respectively, a team was assembled that consists of Felicity Gransden, Flavor Innovation, Chris Rehberger spearheading

“The Savior”) after Jesus Christ. In 1892, the government of President Carlos Ezeta decided that the Salvadoran peso be called “Colón” in homage to Christopher Columbus. The word "Colón" has nuanced meaning in El Salvador. It can refer to Columbus and is the unit of currency. When the founders decided to make a rum brand

As with prior releases, Ron Colón places the focus squarely on what is in the bottle. LOOKING FORWARD, BRIDGING WORLDS “Our philosophy of bridging worlds encompasses a postmodern approach in the spirit industry. Our goal is to subvert the mainstream conventions of classification and characterization, and to test the audience's suspension of disbelief. We like to break down the divide between rum and whiskey with the goal of creating something that does not abide by traditional expression. Postmodernism is interested in contradiction, fragmentation, and instability and is often focused on the destruction of hierarchies and boundaries,” says Janssens. And what does the future hold for the premium rum category? According to Gransden, growth in the premium rum category doesn't look to be slowing down. “It’s driven by consumers who are looking to drink less but better, this has encouraged interest in quality, origin of ingredients and stories behind the rums they enjoy. Bartenders are looking to the dark and aged rum categories for their complexity of flavor. There is a wonderful variety within the rum category even just within the production and process of rums produced around the world.” “In recent times, we've also seen the return 22 BIN 2021 114 LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE www.lancmag.com

local sugarcane is run through 100-yearold sugar cane mill and converted to molasses. The molasses are fermented for 36 hours with proprietary yeasts and then distilled in a modern multi-column still, then aged in bourbon white oak barrels. The result is a rich and flavorful balance of spicy caramel and milk chocolate with As with prior releases, Ron Colón places the focus squarely on what is in the bottle. LOOKING FORWARD, BRIDGING WORLDS “Our philosophy of bridging worlds encompasses a postmodern approach in the spirit industry. Our goal is to subvert the mainstream conventions of classification and characterization, and to test the audience's suspension of disbelief. We like to break down the divide between rum and whiskey with the goal of creating something that does not abide by traditional expression. Postmodernism is interested in contradiction, fragmentation, and instability and is often focused on the destruction of hierarchies and boundaries,” says Janssens. And what does the future hold for the premium rum category? According to Gransden, growth in the premium rum category doesn't look to be slowing down. “It’s driven by consumers who are looking to drink less but better, this has encouraged interest in quality, origin of ingredients and stories behind the rums they enjoy. Bartenders are looking to the dark and aged rum categories for their complexity of flavor. There is a wonderful variety within the rum category even just within the production and process of rums produced around the world.” “In recent times, we've also seen the return of classic rum cocktails with Modern Tiki, which gives many opportunities for these well known drinks to be reinvented with premium rums. If we look back at historical cocktails, there are recipes that combine both rum and rye whiskey, this was a source of inspiration for us and an area that we are excited to illuminate with RumRye.” Innovation within the rum category, creating new natural flavor experiences for bartenders and consumers is a cornerstone of the brand. “We are working in a way that allows us to experiment; bringing together different styles and characteristics. Our goal is to not just be a rum brand, but to be a spirit brand that pushes the boundaries of rum,” notes Gransden. Ron Colón moves forward along a path of experimentation that drives the modern cocktail movement with their portfolio of artisan quality products imbued with heritage and character. Rum is the chameleon of spirits and master of reinvention, a versatile spirit and important part of any beverage program. Ron Colón RumRye embraces the essence of both spirits and connects the flavors and traditions for both bartenders and consumers looking for authenticity and tradition. “With the history of Rye seeped in the early colonial days of American history, we couldn’t be happier to be getting Ron Colon RumRye,” says Henry Preiss of Preiss Imports. Modern consumers are sophisticated and discerning, looking for authenticity and tradition—a far cry from the cliché of scallywags and the Pirates of the Caribbean. RumRye’s 50/50 split of both rum and straight rye whiskey, highlights and balances the aromas and characteristics in both, and illuminates the past for the contemporary palate. Katy Wallace, Brand Director in the USA, cites early enthusiasm for the release. “After speaking to some of our wholesalers, like Pacific Edge in California, we felt immediate excitement when we showed them the RumRye line extension. Especially in today’s environment it becomes more import to offer new, exciting and authentic sku’s that instantly capture the hearts and minds of the consumers.” “Our vision is to showcase different flavors, industries and processes; blending two styles together to create new experiences, both in a drink and in life,” says Janssens. “It’s a postmodern treatment of rum where varieties and origins are merged, categories fade, hybrids appear and our unique brand ethos ‘to bridge worlds’ comes to life.”

used for Ron Colón RumRye, as well as the other spirits in the portfolio, is 100% recyclable and can be recycled endlessly without loss in quality or purity.

As with prior releases, Ron Colón places the focus squarely on what is in the bottle. LOOKING FORWARD, BRIDGING WORLDS

“Our philosophy of bridging worlds encompasses a postmodern approach in the spirit industry. Our goal is to subvert the mainstream conventions of classification and characterization, and to test the audience’s suspension of disbelief. We like to break down the divide between rum and whiskey with the goal of creating something that does not abide by traditional expression. Post-modernism is interested in contradiction, fragmentation, and instability and is often focused on the destruction of hierarchies and boundaries,” says Janssens.

And what does the future hold for the premium rum category? According to Gransden, growth in the premium rum category doesn’t look to be slowing down.

“It’s driven by consumers who are looking to drink less but better, this has encouraged interest in quality, origin of ingredients and stories behind the rums they enjoy. Bartenders are looking to the dark and aged rum categories for their complexity of flavour. There is a wonderful variety within the rum category even just within the production and process of rums produced around the world.”

“In recent times, we’ve also seen the return of classic rum cocktails with Modern Tiki, which gives many opportunities for these well known drinks to be reinvented with premium rums. If we look back at historical cocktails, there are recipes that combine both rum and rye whiskey, this was a source of inspiration for us and an area that we are excited to illuminate with RumRye.”

Innovation within the rum category, creating new natural flavour experiences for bartenders and consumers is a cornerstone of the brand.

“We are working in a way that allows us to experiment; bringing together different styles and characteristics. Our goal is to not just be a rum brand, but to be a spirit brand that pushes the boundaries of rum,” notes Gransden.

Ron Colón moves forward along a path of experimentation that drives the modern cocktail movement with their portfolio of artisan quality products imbued with heritage and character. Rum is the chameleon of spirits and master of reinvention, a versatile spirit and important part of any beverage program. Ron Colón RumRye embraces the essence of both spirits and connects the flavours and traditions for both bartenders and consumers looking for authenticity and tradition.

“With the history of Rye seeped in the early colonial days of American

As with prior releases, Ron Colón places history, we couldn’t be happier to be getting Ron Colon RumRye,” says the focus squarely on what is in the bottle. Henry Preiss of Preiss Imports. Modern consumers are sophisticated and discerning, looking LOOKING FORWARD, BRIDGING for authenticity and tradition—a far cry from the cliché of scallywags and the Pirates of the Caribbean. RumRye’s “Our philosophy of bridging worlds 50/50 split of both rum and straight rye whiskey, highlights and balances encompasses a postmodern approach the aromas and characteristics in in the spirit industry. Our goal is to both, and illuminates the past for the subvert the mainstream conventions of contemporary palate. classification and characterization, and to Katy Wallace, Brand Director in the test the audience's suspension of disbelief. USA, cites early enthusiasm for the release. We like to break down the divide between rum and whiskey with the goal “After speaking to some of our wholesalers, like Pacific Edge of creating something that does not abide in California, we felt immediate by traditional expression. Postmodernism excitement when we showed them the RumRye line extension. Especially is interested in contradiction, in today’s environment it becomes fragmentation, and instability and is often more import to offer new, exciting and authentic sku’s that instantly focused on the destruction of hierarchies capture the hearts and minds of the and boundaries,” says Janssens. consumers.” “Our vision is to showcase different And what does the future hold for the flavours, industries and processes; blending two styles together to create premium rum category? According to new experiences, both in a drink and in Gransden, growth in the premium rum life,” says Janssens. “It’s a postmodern treatment of rum where varieties and category doesn't look to be slowing origins are merged, categories fade, down. “It’s driven by consumers who are hybrids appear and our unique brand ethos ‘to bridge worlds’ comes to life.” looking to drink less but better, this has encouraged interest in quality, origin of ingredients and stories behind the rums they enjoy. Bartenders are looking to the dark and aged rum categories for their complexity of flavor. There is a wonderful variety within the rum category even just within the production and process of rums of classic rum cocktails with Modern Tiki, which gives many opportunities for these well known drinks to be reinvented with premium rums. If we look back at historical cocktails, there are recipes that combine both rum and rye whiskey, this was a source of inspiration for us and an area that we are excited to illuminate with RumRye.” Innovation within the rum category, creating new natural flavor experiences for bartenders and consumers is a cornerstone of the brand. “We are working in a way that allows us to experiment; bringing together different styles and characteristics. Our goal is to not just be a rum brand, but to be a spirit brand that pushes the boundaries of rum,” notes Gransden. Ron Colón moves forward along a path of experimentation that drives the modern cocktail movement with their portfolio of artisan quality products imbued with heritage and character. Rum is the chameleon of spirits and master of reinvention, a versatile spirit and important part of any beverage program. Ron Colón RumRye embraces the essence of both spirits and connects the flavors and traditions for both bartenders and consumers looking for authenticity and tradition. “With the history of Rye seeped

“The Savior”) after Jesus Christ. In 1892, the government of President Carlos Ezeta As with prior releases, Ron Colón places the focus squarely on what is in the bottle. Preiss of Preiss Imports. decided that the Salvadoran peso be Modern consumers are sophisticated called “Colón” in homage to Christopher and discerning, looking for authenticity Columbus. LOOKING FORWARD, BRIDGING and tradition—a far cry from the WORLDS cliché of scallywags and the Pirates of “Our philosophy of bridging worlds the Caribbean. RumRye’s 50/50 split The word "Colón" has nuanced meaning encompasses a postmodern approach of both rum and straight rye whiskey, in El Salvador. It can refer to Columbus in the spirit industry. Our goal is to highlights and balances the aromas and and is the unit of currency. When the subvert the mainstream conventions of characteristics in both, and illuminates founders decided to make a rum brand they noticed that historically rum was “The Savior”) after Jesus Christ. In 1892, the government of President Carlos Ezeta classification and characterization, and to test the audience's suspension of disbelief. We like to break down the divide the past for the contemporary palate. Katy Wallace, Brand Director in the USA, often used as currency, and it often tells a decided that the Salvadoran peso be between rum and whiskey with the goal cites early enthusiasm for the release. rich story about a culture and country. Ron called “Colón” in homage to Christopher of creating something that does not abide “After speaking to some of our wholesalers, by traditional expression. Postmodernism like Pacific Edge in California, we felt Colón RumRye is a continuation of that is interested in contradiction, immediate excitement when we showed story connecting countries, cultures and fragmentation, and instability and is often them the RumRye line extension. currency as well. The bottle incorporates The word "Colón" has nuanced meaning focused on the destruction of hierarchies Especially in today’s environment it the old “Colónes” banknotes and currency in the labels and the unique coin that is placed in the cap of each bottle. in El Salvador. It can refer to Columbus and is the unit of currency. When the founders decided to make a rum brand and boundaries,” says Janssens. And what does the future hold for the premium rum category? According to becomes more import to offer new, exciting and authentic sku’s that instantly capture the hearts and minds of the consumers.” they noticed that historically rum was Gransden, growth in the premium rum The packaging was developed with an eye towards sustainability and the choice was made to steer clear of fancy molded bottle often used as currency, and it often tells a rich story about a culture and country. Ron Colón RumRye is a continuation of that category doesn't look to be slowing down. “It’s driven by consumers who are looking to drink less but better, this has encouraged interest in quality, origin of “Our vision is to showcase different flavors, industries and processes; blending two styles together to create new experiences, both in a drink and in life,” says Janssens. designs and seek out the most affordable story connecting countries, cultures and ingredients and stories behind the rums “It’s a postmodern treatment of rum glass solution in the industry. The wine bottle glass used for Ron Colón RumRye, currency as well. The bottle incorporates the old “Colónes” banknotes and currency they enjoy. Bartenders are looking to the dark and aged rum categories for their complexity of flavor. There is a wonderful where varieties and origins are merged, categories fade, hybrids appear and our unique brand ethos ‘to bridge worlds’ as well as the other spirits in the portfolio, in the labels and the unique coin that is variety within the rum category even just comes to life.” within the production and process of rums of classic rum cocktails with Modern Tiki, which gives many opportunities for these well known drinks to be reinvented with premium rums. If we look back at historical cocktails, there are recipes that combine both rum and rye whiskey, this was a source of inspiration for us and an area that we are excited to illuminate with RumRye.” Innovation within the rum category, creating new natural flavor experiences for bartenders and consumers is a cornerstone of the brand. “We are working in a way that allows us to experiment; bringing together different styles and characteristics. Our goal is to not just be a rum brand, but to be a spirit brand that pushes the boundaries of rum,” notes Gransden. Ron Colón moves forward along a path of experimentation that drives the modern cocktail movement with their portfolio of artisan quality products imbued with heritage and character. Rum is the chameleon of spirits and master of reinvention, a versatile spirit and important part of any beverage program. Ron Colón RumRye embraces the essence of both spirits and connects the flavors and traditions for both bartenders and consumers looking for authenticity and tradition. “With the history of Rye seeped Preiss of Preiss Imports. Modern consumers are sophisticated and discerning, looking for authenticity and tradition—a far cry from the cliché of scallywags and the Pirates of the Caribbean. RumRye’s 50/50 split of both rum and straight rye whiskey, highlights and balances the aromas and characteristics in both, and illuminates the past for the contemporary palate. Katy Wallace, Brand Director in the USA, cites early enthusiasm for the release. “After speaking to some of our wholesalers, like Pacific Edge in California, we felt immediate excitement when we showed them the RumRye line extension. Especially in today’s environment it becomes more import to offer new, exciting and authentic sku’s that instantly capture the hearts and minds of the consumers.” “Our vision is to showcase different flavors, industries and processes; blending two styles together to create new experiences, both in a drink and in life,” says Janssens. “It’s a postmodern treatment of rum where varieties and origins are merged, 2021 categories fade, hybrids appear and our www.lancmag.com unique brand ethos ‘to bridge worlds’ 115LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE comes to life.”