TheRumLab Industry Newsletter Week #45 of 2023
The Rum Lab
TheRumLab - Our main focus is Rum Education. We do so through our digital magazine, events, infographics, and more.
Rum Talk with:
FRANCISCO PéREZ DEL ROSARIO Master Rum Distiller and creator of "Peligroso Pérez" ?
TRL: Who is Francisco Pérez Del Rosario?
I am Francisco Pérez, Master Rum Distiller, and in other spirits. I was born in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, and I grew up in a rum factory, playing in the cellar among sugarcane and fermentation tanks, where my father was the Technical Director, Master Distiller, and Master Rum Distiller. I studied engineering and had the opportunity to work in that distillery, where I spent 15 years following in my father’s footsteps.
My responsibilities included overseeing the estate, the distillery as a Master Distiller, a cellar with 6000 barrels, the laboratory, the production of rums and other spirits, and their bottling. Currently, I have created my own project, “Peligroso Pérez.”
I specialize in spirits, work as a consultant, train service teams, serve as a Brand Ambassador for some brands, and I am at the forefront of various culinary projects with chefs and food journalists. I dedicate myself to pairing menus with spirits and cocktails, giving tastings, and presenting products. The projects are endless; I work with the Bodega Vega de Yuco to release the first Distilled Volcanic Malvasia wine aged in French oak barrels. I am a Brand Ambassador for Ron Aldea, and work with Mezcals, Gins, Whiskies, Japanese Sake, Vermouth, and Vodka.
TRL: What does Rum mean to you? What made you fall in love with Rum and when did it happen?
Rum, for me, is home. I grew up in a rum factory, and from a young age, I unconsciously played in that environment, among sugarcane barrels. I could distinguish between a fermentation tank and a vinasse tank from a young age. I knew what Guarapo was, played among barrels being repaired. So, for me, “Rum is Home.”
TRL: Three essential characteristics that define rum from your perspective.
For me, rum is tradition and craftsmanship. Rum is that scent of olives and sugarcane that will transform into a barrel with the passage of time. Rum is patience.
TRADITION-CRAFTSMANSHIP-PATIENCE
TRL: What is the biggest contribution you have made to the rum industry?
Fifteen years of working in one of the largest distilleries in Europe is a contribution, but for me, the greatest contribution is what I am doing now. It’s being able to teach what rum is, to show the effort that goes into making it, and above all, to teach how to drink and taste it.
TRL: Benefits that the rum industry has provided you.
Obviously, we can talk about economic benefits, but when I started my project, I turned down offers from distilleries in the mainland and the Caribbean. The greatest benefit is having created my project from scratch, solely with my knowledge. Being able to share what I know is one of the best feelings I have. I meet very professional people in the gastronomy world; we are creators of culinary pleasures.
TRL: What else are you passionate about besides rum? Why?
I am passionate about spirits; I didn’t just make rum in that distillery. I am passionate about wine; I am passionate about Cask Strength or Single Cask spirits, and I like Mezcals, high-proof fruit spirits. I prefer strong and complex flavors and smells.
TRL: What is your favorite place to have rum?
More than places, of which I could choose many, I am more about the company. With the right company for each moment, you can taste, talk, and analyze a drink.
TRL: Favorite drink, recipe.
I prefer short, unblended drinks, but I also enjoy a good mixed drink. I have one that I call “Guateque.”
- On the rock long glass.
- Lots of ice.
- Orange twist.
- One measure (Jigger) of a good rum (Ron Aldea Maestro).
- Half measure of FeverTree Tonic.
- FeverTree Madagascar Cola.
TRL: Why is it important to educate the rum consumer?
The production of a distilled spirit is an art, from the preparation of its raw material in the fields, through fermentation, distillation, aging, to the final container. If the consumer has knowledge of the effort it took to produce that product, they will appreciate it and also know what they are paying for.
TRL: Any advice for training the palate to taste a good rum?
To train the palate, you have to drink and taste, and it is very important to taste everything, not just rum, but all kinds of spirits. In order to detect flavors and smells, it is important to recognize them beforehand, with the help of a Tasting Chart, which reflects the basic aromas and flavors in a tasting. This way, we can start recognizing those nuances.
TRL: How can rum contribute to improving the crisis in other countries?
Well, much like any other business, by creating jobs, ensuring the quality of the product to maintain prosperity, creating altruistic actions with society, and above all, having a demanding consciousness for sustainability and the environment.
TRL: Is a commitment to sustainable development the key to the rum industry’s success and longevity worldwide?
It is one of the keys since sustainability is everyone’s concern, and it applies to the rum industry as well. There will always be waste and pollution generated in the industry, and if we reduce it or practically make it disappear, we will be contributing. Fair trade is also a commitment, or ensuring that the company’s workers have dignified conditions and salaries.
TRL: Who would you like to meet in the rum industry? What would you say to them?
As a professional, I would like to meet many professionals like myself and visit their distilleries. I have already visited some, and what would I say? Well, simply conversing and exchanging impressions would be great. But I have no preferences; all rums and their distilleries seem fascinating to me.
TRL: What are your next goals in the rum industry?
On an industrial level, I like to collaborate on new projects, classify products in the cellar, and create new products. I am always innovating and trying to create. I don’t like monotony, and I believe that consumers deserve experiences that surprise them and take them out of the boredom that exists in society.
TRL: What are your plans when you leave the rum industry?
Well, a prosperous and peaceful retirement.
TRL: Why is the figure of the bartender important in the rum industry?
Professionals who know spirits, who are culinary creators, and know how to serve a good drink are needed by consumers, bar owners, spirit distributors, and the rum industry. This will generate wealth for everyone.
TRL: What is your advice for the new generations in the rum industry?
First, get to know the production process of the product you work with. Try to steer that production towards traditional and artisanal processes (as much as your company allows), and finally, get to know the rest of the products that exist in the world, in order to create new ones, to compare and improve.
TRL: How can people learn more about you? Social media page? “Peligroso Pérez”
The World’s Best Rum — According To The 2023 Caribbean Rum Awards
Kate Dingwall - 11/6/23 - Forbes?
Once a year, the rum world gathers in the Caribbean to celebrate both molasses-based spirits and premium rhums agricoles over Caribbean rum week. To close out the festivities, the sixth annual Caribbean Rum Awards awarded top bottles and producers the year’s biggest honors.
2023’s best bottle is Don Q Reserva de la Familia Serralles, a rare bottling first born in 1994 when the Serralles family aged a special rum in charred American white oak barrels. From the 36 barrels, the best samples were pulled to create this exceptional lot.
Runners-up include Neisson Zwetol (gold), named after the Creole word for star and packaged in wood from Jura; Mount Gay Single Estate (silver), highlighting sugar can harvested from specific fields, and Papa’s Pilar Ernest (bronze), a liquid ode to Ernest Hemingway.
“This year’s Caribbean Rum Awards St Barth was a fantastic success,” said Alexander Britell, editor and publisher of Caribbean Journal and co-founder of the Caribbean Rum Awards St Barth. “The impressive field was a reminder of the unbelievable diversity and quality of rums in the Caribbean.”
The event closed out a week of parties, tasting, master class, and pairing dinners around the island of St Baths, with the closing competition taking place at Rosewood Le Guanahani St Barth resort.
Rhum Neisson out of Martinique is the year’s most decorated brand, taking home double gold in three different categories. Trinidad’s Island Company Rum was dubbed the Best Gold Rum of the year, and Flor de Cana won for best branding. Yves Assier de Pompignan of Martinique was named rum maker of the year.
To expand on the previous years, the Caribbean Rum Awards has added a new category to the competition: cane rum, highlighting rums made from cane juice. To kick off the category, Grenada’s Renegade Rum Single Farm Origin Dunfermline was awarded double gold.
“The Caribbean rum world has never been more exciting, particularly in rhum agricole” said Guy Britton, managing editor of Caribbean Journal.
In the Rhum Blanc Guadalupe category: Rhum Karukera 50 won double gold, Reimonenq Coeur de Chauffe won gold, Rhum St Barth 50 won silver, and Damoiseau 69 won bronze.
In the Rhum Blanc Martinique category, Rhum A1710 La Perle won double gold, Neisson Dekolaj won gold, Baie de Tresor won silver, and Rhum JM 50 won bronze. Over in Vieux Agricole, Rhum Neisson Vieux Bio won double gold, Rhum Karukera L’insolite won gold, Longueteau Vieux won silver, and Damoiseau Vieux won bronze.
In the Premium Molasses Rum category, La Marielita won double gold, Mount Gay XO was awarded gold, and John Watling’s Paradise rum and Worthy Park Single Estate won silver and bronze, respectively. Full results can?be viewed here.
“We had some great rums and new distilleries visiting and presenting their rums as well as some of the agricole producers that have been supporting us all along,” said Christopher Davis, founder of Rhum Room St Barth and co-founder of the Caribbean Rum Awards St Barth. “It was a great week and we have some fantastic ideas for 2024.”
Judges included Alexander Britell, co-founder of the Caribbean Rum Awards and editor and publisher of Caribbean Journal; Guy Britton, managing editor of Caribbean Journal; Christopher Davis, renowned rum expert and founder of the Rhum Room St Barth; Peter Berntsen, COO of Empire Social Lounge in Miami; Myssi Davis, founder of Rum Traveler; Jose Antonio Hernandez-Solaun, president of the Miami branch of the International Wine and Food Association; rum expert Ivan Jivkov; Simons Chase, editor of Cuba Journal; and world-renowned Chef Guy Ferdinand.
Rolling Fork Is the Ideal Rum for Bourbon Drinkers
KIRK MILLER - 11/7/23 - InsideHook
What we’re drinking:?Two?rums?from?Rolling Fork, an award-winning independent bottler based in Indiana.?
Why we’re drinking these:?RF co-founders Turner Wathen and Jordan Morris (who, interestingly, still have day jobs) came up with an ingenious idea in 2017 after home distilling in a garage — import some of the world’s best rums and pair them, at cask strength, with hand-selected ex-whiskey casks from some?very?well known and loved distilleries. So you might get, say, some Foursquare from Barbados (aka the?Pappy of rum) in a cask that once held some very prized wheated bourbon.
Admittedly, the actual rum distilleries and the exact barrel sources are not always disclosed, though you can?probably figure them out. “We try to be as transparent as possible, and I’d love for [redacted] distillery to say, ‘you guys say whatever you want,’ but we do run into limitations,” Morris says.?
The hybrid idea has certainly paid off:?Fred Minnick named them Best Independent Bottler of the Year, and Rolling Fork won Best Rum and a Double Gold at the recent Barleycorn Awards.?
The company’s first product, Fortuitous Union, was an accidental blending of a 12-year-old Trinidad rum — finished in Kentucky bourbon casks — and a 5-year-old cask-proof?rye whiskey. From there, the company’s portfolio now includes the Rolling Fork Series, a revolving selection of aged, cask-strength rums matched to hand-selected ex-whiskey casks for secondary maturation; the Lost Cask Collection, a series of rare, single-cask, long-aged rums; and The Kentucky Cask Series, which features small batch rums partially aged in Kentucky and blended by the Rolling Fork Spirits founders, then additionally aged in hand-selected casks in Kentucky bourbon warehouses.
“We bring in, say, eight-year-old Barbados rum, or 3- to 4-year-old Jamaican rum, and we try to think about what cask to match them with or what cask can add a different flavor,” Wathen says.?
So, the business plan is whiskey-adjacent, but proudly rum. “There’s no space left for someone to just bottle MGP whiskey product,” Morris says. “When we started, we looked at the market and thought, whiskey is super big, but we don’t need that. But really good rums, no one knows about those in the United States. Rum has been hard to get U.S. consumers to buy into.”
The company has also started secondary aging rum in other spirits casks, including brandy and Calvados, as you’ll see below.
How they taste:
* Rolling Fork Rum (Kentucky Cask Series):?A small batch rum distilled in El Salvador and then aged in Kentucky bourbon and rye barrels, along with French Oak port casks and sherry casks, over two summers. Coming in at 110 proof, this one is full of baking spices, vanilla, dark fruit and hazelnut. It features a creamy mouthfeel and softer-than-expected barrel notes — ideal for both rum and bourbon fans.?
* Rolling Fork Single Cask Rum:?A 13-year-old rum (aged in Barbados, the UK and Kentucky) from Foursquare aged in ex-bourbon barrels, this is a delicious melange of baked apple, vanilla, toffee, clove and chocolate with a hint of orange on the finish.?
Fun fact:?Rolling Fork’s Indiana HQ is also the home of?Starlight, an up-and-coming and rather excellent (and sustainable) whiskey distillery.
Rum producer not sweet on plan to transform sugar sector
Marlon Madden - 11/4/23 - Barbados Today
One of this island’s main rum producers has poured cold water on plans to transform the island’s sugar cane industry into an energy industry, saying he was not impressed with what has been revealed so far.
In fact, owner of Foursquare Rum Distillery Richard Seale told?Barbados TODAY?the plan to produce more energy from bagasse, a byproduct of sugarcane, was simply not viable.
He admitted that he was not privy to the details of the proposals put forward by the Barbados Sustainable Energy Co-operative Society Limited (Co-op Energy), and said that the rum industry had not been consulted.?“The rum industry should be consulted. But from what I read in the press it, respectfully, doesn’t make any sense,” said Seale.
“There is not a sugar industry in the entire world where the primary product is electricity.?You would have to make massive changes to generate excess electricity. Bagasse is already used to make electricity but that electricity is consumed within the factory.”
Seale explained that in order to produce more electricity from bagasse, changes would include the production of greater quantities of bagasse, and changing out of boilers to convert the bagasse into electricity.?Barbados TODAY?reported recently that Co-op Energy is taking over management of the sugar industry from the Government by the end of this year. In addition to taking over the operations of the Barbados Agricultural Management Corporation (BAMC), which oversees the management, production and sale of sugar, Co-op Energy plans to move the sugar industry into renewable energy production.
The intention is to pump more than $100 million in investment into the transformation, Co-op Energy president, Retired Lieutenant Colonel Trevor Browne told?Barbados TODAY.
“We will be producing electricity and, as a byproduct, there will also be sugar and molasses. Even though there will be more sugar than there is now and more molasses than there is now, the key thing that we would be producing is energy . . . by burning bagasse as a biofuel. So instead of importing fossil fuel, we will be using the trash from the cane to produce electricity,” he said.
However, speaking with?Barbados TODAY?on the sidelines of the rum panel discussion of the annual Barbados Rum Experience which was held at the Radisson Aquatica Hotel on Friday, Seale said what he has heard so far was nothing to “change the economics of the sugar industry”.
“So, nothing that I have seen gives me any confidence that there is a viable solution,” he said.
“There is not enough cane on the island to generate sugar and excess bagasse enough to make electricity.”
Indicating that St Nicholas Abbey, Foursquare Rum Distillery and Mount Gay Distilleries Limited were all grinding their own sugar cane, Seale added: “Three rum distilleries can’t save the entire sugar industry, but three rum distilleries can guarantee that sugar cane will be grown and turned into a valuable export product.”
According to the latest Central Bank of Barbados report, rum production was boosted by export demand during the January to September review period. Barbados earned an estimated $4.1 million from sugar for the first nine months of this year and about $21.4 million from rum and other beverages.
“Within the rum world, we are demonstrating that we can take sugar cane to a valuable export product. The obsession is always on sugar but that is the wrong obsession. The obsession should be on how we turn our agricultural products into valuable export products,” said Seale.
NIELSEN BI-WEEKLY SPIRITS UPDATE
Source: TD Cowen
November 1, 2023
THE TD COWEN INSIGHT
Spirits dollar sales were up 7.1% in the most recent 2-week period ended 10/21/23, slightly below the 7.2% growth seen over the last 4-week period, but slightly above 7.0% TTW growth. Within traditional distilled spirits, American whiskey and tequila continue to be the fastest growing categories. Diageo, Pernod and Beam Suntory were among top share donors.
Distilled Spirits 2-Week Dollar Sales Up HSD
Total distilled spirits dollar sales decelerated slightly in the most recent 2-week period ended 10/21/23. Within traditional distilled spirits, American whiskey and tequila continue to be the fastest growing categories in the most recent 2-week period, as American whiskey decelerated slightly relative to 4-week trends while tequila trends slightly improved. Meanwhile, dollar sales for vodka accelerated relative to 4-week trends, while rum decelerated.
Diageo, Pernod and Beam Suntory Cede Share on a TTW Basis
Among covered companies, BFB's TTW share was down 6 bps within distilled spirits, while STZ's share was down 5 bps over the same time period. Meanwhile, Diageo continues to be the leading share donor, ceding 125 bps of TTW dollar share in the most recent period. Outside our coverage, Sazerac gained 26 bps of dollar share on a TTW basis, while Beam Suntory, Campari America and Pernod lost 43 bps, gained 4 bps and lost 42 bps of TTW dollar share, respectively. Luxco, owned by MGPI with ~0.7% share of the category in Nielsen, lost 9 bps of TTW share YoY.
Europe: Total Europe Spirits Nielsen: Sequential deceleration in volumes down -6.1%. Pernod & Campari momentum improving.
Source: CITI
November 6, 2023
CITI'S TAKE
EU Spirits volumes fell -6.1% in the 4 weeks to Oct 8th, a sequential deceleration on the previous month which saw volumes down -3.0%. albeit on c.138bps tougher comps. In the last 12 weeks, volumes fell -4.5%. Industry price/mix remained robust up +5.2%, slightly accelerating on the 12-wks at +5.0%. Industry sales were down -1.2% vs +2.0% in the previous 4-wks. Pernod with sales +0.5% saw a solid improvement on a 4-week vs 12-wk trend basis as well as on a 4-yr. Campari performed well with sales up +19.2% YoY, while was Rémy -13.8% and Diageo -0.5%. We highlight Citi’s take on latest Q3/9M results/trading updates for Pernod (LINK), Remy (LINK) and Campari (LINK).
Market & category performance — GB sales were down -2.8% (vs -0.1% last month), with volumes down -8.3%. Spain sales were up +4.3% (+4.8%), with volumes down -1.9%. Italy sales were down -1.2% (+4.5%), with volumes down -6.2%. Germany sales grew -0.6% (+1.2%), with volumes down -6.7%. France sales declined -0.7% (+3.1%), with volumes down -4.3%. In the latest 4W period, Vodka sales were up +0.8% and Aniseed Spirits up +4.0% while Rum (-2.8%) and Liqueurs (-2.1%) were more muted. Whiskey (-3.7%) and Gin (-3.6%) was down.
Diageo — Sales declined -0.5% in the last 4W, compared to +1.5% last month, albeit on 630bps tougher comps. This brings the 12W to -1.4%. Total European volumes fell -3.0% (12W -3.7%) and price/mix grew +2.6% (12W +2.3%). 4-yr stack sales growth was higher at +27% vs +26% last month, with GB stronger at +38% vs +29%. Value share was up 9bps in Euro
Pernod — Sales in the last 4W were +0.5%, after flat +0.1% in the previous 4W on notably tougher comps (593bps). The 12W sales growth trend is now running down -3.9%. Volumes dropped by -2.1%, with France down -1.0% and UK down -19.2%. Price/mix grew by +2.6%. 4-yr stack sales growth accelerated to +12% vs +11% last month with France up 8% vs flat last month. Market share was up +20bps in the last 4
Campari — Sales increased by +19.2% in the last 4W, compared to +18.7% in the previous 4W. The 4-yr sales stack was higher at 168 vs 166 last month. Volumes grew by +10.0% and price mix grew +8.4%. In Italy, Campari’s sales grew +7.5% and the 4-yr sales stack decelerated to 124 (last month 130
Remy Cointreau — Sales decreased by -13.8% in the 4W, compared to -3.3% in the prior period on significantly tougher comps. The 4-yr sales stack growth was stable at +7% vs +6% last month. Volumes decreased by -20.0% and price mix grew +7.8%. Value share was largely flat (-7bps) for the 4W period.
Scope of Nielsen data – Nielsen provides data for 5 markets in Europe along with the total Europe data which covers nine markets (Germany, France, Great Britain, Italy, Spain, Austria, Belgium, Netherlands and Portugal). While the coverage is different in each market, we estimate it covers c.80% of the European off-premise. We estimate that c.55-70% of Western Europe Spirits sales are made in the off-trade.
Restaurant hiring declines in October
Eating and drinking places lost about 7,500 jobs in October, according to the federal government, with hiring across all industries decelerating significantly. But the unemployment rate remained at 3.9%.
November 6, 2023
Restaurants and bars cut their payrolls by 7,500 jobs in October, snapping a climb that had brought employment in the sector nearly back to pre-pandemic levels, according to new government data.
Across all non-agricultural industries, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported Friday morning, employers added 150,000 jobs, holding the national unemployment rate at 3.9%.
The federal agency noted that the October figures signaled a slowdown in hiring overall. The economy had generated an average of 258,000 new jobs in each of the prior 12 months, BLS said.
It noted that the overall hiring figure for October reflected a steep drop-off in manufacturing employment, a result of strikes against the Big Three auto makers.?
BLS did not provide a reason for decline last month in hiring by eating and drinking places. Its figures were released amid a flurry of third-quarter earnings reports that showed the restaurant business was still challenged by declining traffic, with sales gains coming largely from higher menu prices.
Restaurants and bars finished the month with total employment of 12,324,800 workers, or roughly 41,000 more than were on the sector’s payrolls a year ago.?
Hotels, in contrast to restaurants and bars, added about 6,700 jobs.
The drop in hiring left restaurants about 14,000 jobs below the segment's workforce tally for Feb. 2020, or before COVID-19 hit, according to Bruce Grindy, chief economist for the National Restaurant Association. That's a decline of 0.1%, he reported in an analysis of the BLS data.
The industry had breathed a sigh of relief when the BLS reported a month ago that restaurants had finally re-hired enough employees to bring their collective workforce back to the early 2020 levels, a struggle that took three years, or considerably longer than the employment bounce back for other trades.
Grindy noted that the industry had not really hit the threshold. Rather, BLS' revision of its employment figures for August and September showed the preliminary measures of hiring by eating and drinking places were off by about 21,000.
In short, the industry has yet to hit the milestone of employing as many people currently as it did in Feb. 2020.
Rum producer laments delays in GI registration
Marlon Madden ?- 11/04/2023 ?- Barbados Today
The delay in the registration of a potentially lucrative graphical indication (GI) for Barbados rum is not sitting well with this island’s rum producers, who have been trying to get it in place for the past several years.
On Friday, master rum distiller and owner of Foursquare Rum Distillery Richard Seale argued that the delay was a result of authorities not understanding the importance of having the GI in place.
He said while he was not pointing any fingers, it was simply unsatisfactory and unacceptable that the industry was still awaiting approval of the trademark for several years from the Corporate Affairs and Intellectual Property Office (CAIPO).
“Government has never really understood it because we have lived off making sugar . . . Therefore, I don’t think they really take seriously, IP (intellectual property),” said Seale.
The first application to CAIPO for a GI was made by Export Barbados (BIDC) but was said to have required amendments and was subsequently abandoned following objections from a prominent distiller.
However, another application was submitted by three of the island’s rum producers in 2020. That, too, required some changes but they were not made aware of that until last year.
“So we responded accordingly [and] we have not heard anything since . . . . To date, three years, the application has languished in CAIPO,” Seale told those attending the rum panel discussion of the annual Barbados Rum Experience at the Radisson Aquatica Hotel.
“The seriousness of the issue is that it is not understood because Barbados simply does not have any experience and true understanding of selling to the world valuable, artisanal products. So they don’t grasp the concept that the more we invest in Barbados rum and the more valuable it becomes the greater the need to protect it.”
He said there continued to be concerns among local rum producers that there is no guarantee any rum overseas labelled ‘Barbados rum’ was actually from the island, and that the country continued to lose out on precious foreign exchange earnings as a result of the rum not being protected.
A GI is a sign that specifies that a project originated from a particular location, with the qualities, characteristics or reputation of the product depending on the place of origin of the product.
“The greater the value it has, the greater the exposure to exploitation . . . . As long as you create something of value, it will be exploited if you don’t protect it,” Seale told the gathering of international rum connoisseurs and specially invited guests.
Questions were raised by a former CAIPO employee about whether the delay at the government department was a result of a backlog as well as the need for more staff.
Seale said while there was no question those could have contributed to delays, “at the end of the day, if government is serious about protecting intellectual property, they will give the office the resources they need”.
Barbados TODAY understands that among the stipulations in the initial proposed GI are that rum distillers must use Barbadian water to make their rum and that the rum must be aged here.
Seale explained that the application submitted by three of the island’s rum producers was that Barbados rum be produced on the island “straight through to bottle”.
“In other words, there is no prescription on the methods to be used because one of the wonderful things about Barbados is that we have great diversity between our producers,” said Seale.
Foursquare had also submitted an application for a GI for Falernum in 2020, but Seale said they are yet to receive a response from CAIPO. (MM)
Three ultra-premium Dominican rum blends capture the essence of Barceló’s elixir
Press Release ? - 11/06/2023 ?- Ron Barceló
Only select brands can showcase the wisdom and knowledge acquired over nearly a century of expertise in the field. It’s during these moments that they excel, creating unique experiences to delight connoisseur's palates, such as Ron Barceló’s Rare Blends Collection.
The flagship premium products of Barceló Imperial Porto Cask, Barceló Imperial Mizunara Cask, and Barceló Imperial Maple Cask are the result of the meticulous blend of Ron Barceló’s exclusive reserves, aged for more than a decade in unique oak barrels nestled in the Dominican Republic.
Derived from the nectar of carefully selected Dominican sugar cane juice, these exceptional liqueurs exude exquisite aromas that delight even the most refined palates, leaving an indelible mark on unforgettable evenings –distilling distinctive memories that never fail to surprise.
This outstanding saga summarises years of relentless research and expertise in perfecting these three blends, each with exclusive features that invite you to explore the world in every sip, revealing their outstanding profiles and engulfing tang.
These attributes are honoured while remaining mindful of the responsibility that accompanies being the benchmark in a particular domain. Barceló’s rum, the Dominican brand most awarded in the world, is also the first to be accredited as Carbon Neutral, leading the way towards a brighter future –caring for the environment and supporting local communities as a socially responsible company committed to the highest causes.
Embark on a journey that celebrates rarity, craftsmanship, and sustainability. Indulge in the Ron Barceló Rare Blends Collection and experience the epitome of luxury and flavour in every bottle, encapsulating the artistry of nature.
A SENSORY JOURNEY
1. Barceló Imperial Porto Cask: A Lush Purple Expedition
Sipping on a glass of Barceló Imperial Porto Cask, you’re transported to a lush, purplish amber world, diluted in a unique elixir aged in Tawny 10 Oporto wine barrels. The colour alone is a feast for the senses, setting the stage for what’s to come.
Delicate fragrances of fig and wild berry jams tantalize your senses like a palette of fruity hues, evoking the delectable flavours found in Porto’s culinary scene, a delightful fusion of rich ingredients.
After a first taste, you’ll encounter marked notes of English butterscotch and dried cherries, creating a silky and sweet aftertaste that lingers on your palate. Porto Cask is a beverage for those akin to dive into new experiential realms, who crave a visually captivating taste adventure.
2. Barceló Imperial Maple Cask: A Sweet and Silky Canvas
Still distilled, aged in oak barrels, and finished in maple wood, Barceló Imperial Maple Cask is the rarest of the premium liqueur saga –a work of art that combines sweet and silky visuals with bold, complex flavors. As you hold the glass, you’ll notice an unctuous body and long thin legs, eliciting a rich oil canvas.
Maple Cask delights the adventurous with fruity and floral aromas, accompanied by pleasant hints of melted caramel, plums, vanilla, and maple syrup. As this spirit makes contact with your lips, you’ll experience a symphony on your palate: Initially sweet, it then outlines wood and dried fruit flavours, ending with a lengthy but silky impression –a champion of taste and texture.
3. Barceló Imperial Mizunara Cask: An Amber Landscape with Intricate Strokes
The Barceló Imperial Mizunara Cask is a masterpiece of flavour and colour. When poured into a glass, it draws moderate tears and reveals an intense amber color with coppery glints, resembling a sunkissed, captivating landscape.
Quench yourself in a delightful rum with complex notes of vanilla, sandalwood, coconut, and ginger much like intricate strokes of flavor.
Accompanied by graceful toasted oak scents, this rum is concocted in Mizunara Japanese barrels. Upon nosing, the woody and mellow sensations induce memories perceived in the palate with a long, spicy, and dry aftertaste, reminiscent of the nuances in a beautifully painted scenery.
Ron Barceló Rare Blends Collection offers a sensory journey that marries taste with the visual and olfactory experiences. Perfect for a warm autumn evening in good company, combined with fine cigars, aged cheeses, elegant desserts, dark chocolate, and perhaps selected cuts of red meat. These rare elixirs are more than just a beverage; they're a synonym of adventure and discovery for intrepid taste buds.
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New Island Malt: Rock Island Rum Cask Edition launched
Waqas Qureshi ?- 11/03/2023 ?- Packaging News
Independent Scotch Whisky distillers, blenders and bottlers Douglas Laing & Co, has recently launched ?a new edition of its Island Malt: Rock Island Rum Cask Edition.
Rock Island Rum Cask Edition has been finished exclusively in Plantation Rum Casks hailing from the Caribbean islands of Barbados, Jamaica and Trinidad.
Emma Reid, Rock Island’s brand manager, said: “We are so excited to have teamed up with Plantation Rum, in whose casks our Island Malt has been finished.”
20 Most Popular Rum Brands in the U.S.
Sultan Khalid ?- 11/02/2023 ?- Finance Yahoo
In this article, we are going to discuss the 20 most popular rum brands in the U.S. You can skip our detailed analysis of the global rum market, the premiumization in the rum category, and the recent acquisitions in the rum industry, and go directly to 5 Most Popular Rum Brands in the U.S.
The role of rum in early America is often understated. When George Washington entered politics for the first time in 1757, rum was the most popular tipple in the American colonies, to the tune of 3.7 gallons per person a year. Like other prominent colonists, Washington also interacted with rum in many aspects of his life. For instance, in order to win the election in the Virginia House of Burgesses in 1758, the Founding Father attracted voters with charm, entertainment, and rum. During his campaign, Washington’s agents doled out 28 gallons of rum, 50 gallons of rum punch, 46 gallons of beer, 34 gallons of wine, and just for good measure, 2 gallons of hard cider.
In fact, in the year 1770 – the same year as the infamous Boston Massacre – the colonies that would soon coalesce through revolution, violence, and democracy into the United States were also home to more than 140 rum distilleries.
Global Rum Market:
As we mentioned in our article – 12 Countries that Produce the Best Rum in the World – the global rum market is estimated at $17.4 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach $24.5 billion by 2033, with a CAGR of 3.5% during the forecast period.
Rum is building momentum and getting more popular in U.S.A. Today, the category is one of the most steadily growing and continues to benefit from several intersecting popularity shifts. In recent years, distillers have experimented with flavored rums, making the category much more versatile in offerings, and so today, flavored and spiced offerings account for over 57% of all rums sold.
This highly mixable spirit also provides a key function in cocktail culture. While rum is a staple of on-premise tiki bars, it is also one of the only spirits for which it’s common to blend multiple varieties in the same cocktail. According to Bacardi’s 2022 Cocktail Trends Report, four of the top-10 best-selling cocktails are rum drinks, making the spirit a must-have for all on-premise programs.
Premiumization in the Rum Category
Rum has long been considered a spirit dedicated to tropical drinks, but in the last few years, consumer perception of the liquor has evolved dramatically. While the category is still dominated by major producers, consumer preferences are shifting away from value options and towards an appreciation for craft and aged rums. Due to the growing influence of aged and high-quality expressions, many consumers now see the spirit as a premium offering that can be sipped and appreciated in much the same way as rare whiskies and tequilas.
As with other spirits categories, premiumization in rum means finer quality ingredients and more creative barrel finishes, giving consumers a wider range of innovative flavors to explore through. While the global rum market is experiencing a period of slow growth, the premium rum category is growing at a CAGR of more than 24%.
Recent Acquisitions in the Rum Industry:
Premium rum’s growth has also been reflected in the merger and acquisition space in the past year. It was announced earlier this year that Brown-Forman Corporation (NYSE:BF-B) had completed the acquisition of the Diplomático Rum brand and related assets from Destillers United Group S.L. (Spain), for an estimated $725 million. The spirits giant announced its agreement to purchase the brand in October 2022, giving it an entry into the growing super-premium rum category.
As part of the acquisition, Brown-Forman Corporation (NYSE:BF-B) added a Panama-based aging, bottling, and shipping production facility to the company. Destillers United Group S.L. will continue to produce and age the unique, carefully-crafted, and complex Diplomático Rum in their original distillery at the foot of the Andes mountains. The Brown-Forman Corporation (NYSE:BF-B) ranks among the 12 Best Alcohol Stocks to Own According to Hedge Funds.
Another industry giant that has recently been busy making deals in the rum industry is Diageo plc (NYSE:DEO). It was announced earlier this year that the spirits behemoth has completed the acquisition of Don Papa Rum, a super-premium, dark rum from the Philippines. The upfront consideration was $276 million, with a further potential consideration of up to $188.6 million through 2028 subject to performance, reflecting the brand’s current growth potential. Available in over 30 countries worldwide, Don Papa Rum is a super-premium dark rum from the Philippines.
Diageo plc (NYSE:DEO) is counted among the Largest Alcohol Companies in the World in 2023.
With that said, here are the Most Popular Rum Brands in America.
20 Most Popular Rum Brands in the U.S.
Methodology:
To collect data for this article, we have referred to the Liquor Handbook 2022 by the Beverage Information Group, looking for the Leading Brands of Rum and Rum Based Drinks in America. The following brands have been ranked by their number of 9-liter cases sold in the U.S. in 2021.
If you’re also interested in other spirits popular in the U.S., here are the Most Popular Liquor Brands in America.
20. Mount Gay
9-Liter Cases Sold in 2021: 139,000
Mount Gay Rum, the oldest, most storied rum in the world, has been produced in Barbados with passion and unparalleled craftsmanship since 1703, thus earning it the title ‘the rum that invented rum’.
In 1989, the French spirits company Rémy-Cointreau acquired the majority ownership in Mount Gay Distilleries, Ltd, and still owns the brand to this day. The alcohol giant has invested heavily in Mount Gay over the last decade, including a $19 million refinery in 2014 and a $9.7 million plantation the following year.
19. Bacardí Oak Heart
9-Liter Cases Sold in 2021: 144,000
This amber spiced rum, which launched in 2011, is aged in charred oak barrels, yielding a smooth, oaky vanilla flavor with a bit of spice on the lingering finish. Bacardí Oakheart was eventually discontinued by the company and replaced by a similar Bacardí Spiced, however, the brand still managed to rank among the Most Popular Rums in 2021.
18. Flor de Ca?a
9-Liter Cases Sold in 2021: 181,000
A family business for five generations, Flor de Ca?a is one of Nicaragua’s most prestigious rums, and has won a huge number of awards, medals, and commendations in the last few years. Almost two decades go into the production of this spirit, and the tradition and artisanal excellence behind it can be appreciated in every drop.
Due to its top quality, Flor de Ca?a is one of the best rums to drink straight.
17. Myers’s
9-Liter Cases Sold in 2021: 207,000
In Kingston, back in 1879, Fred L. Myers began producing rum from pure Jamaican sugarcane juice. Nearly a century and a half later, the pre-eminent cocktail dark rum has retained its original bottle shape, becoming a symbol of Caribbean heritage and pride.
In November 2018, Diageo plc (NYSE:DEO) sold Myers's Rum and various other brands to the Sazerac Company for $550 million.
16. Ron Diaz
9-Liter Cases Sold in 2021: 220,000
Supplied by the Prestige Beverage Group, Ron Diaz Rum is skillfully crafted with a unique blend of herbs and spices resulting in rich, complex flavors of vanilla, caramel, and baking spices. This rum is crafted using only the finest ingredients, including Caribbean molasses, which is fermented and distilled before being aged in oak barrels.
15. Barton Rum
9-Liter Cases Sold in 2021: 225,000
Originally established in 1879, the Barton 1792 distillery is renowned for its iconic Bourbon. However, some of Barton’s better known brands also include other spirits, like vodka, rum, and even tequila. Barton Light Rum brings the taste of the Caribbean, with a rich, mellow flavor that is ideal straight up or in mixed drinks.
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In 2009, Barton was acquired by the New Orleans-based Sazerac Company.
14. Blue Chair Bay
9-Liter Cases Sold in 2021: 226,000
Made with sugarcane molasses and natural ingredients, this authentic Caribbean rum is an award-winning premium brand infused with Kenny Chesney’s heart and soul, from beach to bottle.
Wholly owned by multi platinum singer-songwriter Kenny Chesney, Fishbowl Spirits is the entity through which Chesney created and produces Blue Chair Bay Rum.
13. Parrot Bay
9-Liter Cases Sold in 2021: 228,000
Undeniably Caribbean, Sazerac’s iconic Parrot Bay rums are full of the richest tropical fruits and ?flavors designed to envelop your senses and transport you to easy times. Parrot Bay is a ?premium fusion of fresh, rich flavors with a light, crisp rum.
12. Don Q
9-Liter Cases Sold in 2021: 230,000
Don Q, a multigenerational family rum brand, prides itself on its Puerto Rican roots. The label, produced by Destilería Serrallés since 1865, is popular as the oldest operating distillery in Puerto Rico, as well as the island’s best-selling rum. The brand has been available in the U.S. market since 2009.
At only $12.99, the Don Q Cristal Rum is counted among the most popular cheap rum brands.
11. Ronrico
9-Liter Cases Sold in 2021: 230,000
This traditional Caribbean rum has an authentic dry island taste. The versatility of Ronrico is shown by how it mixes smoothly in all of the classic rum drinks and still tastes delicious straight. In 1889, the King of Spain gave the brand his crest of approval declaring it ‘El ron de los nobles’ or The Rum of Noblemen. That crest still remains on the bottle today as a symbol of quality craftsmanship for nearly 150 years.
10. Calico Jack Rum
9-Liter Cases Sold in 2021: 235,000
Made by blending island spices and rum, Calico Jack is popular for its distinctive flavor profile. The brand was acquired by the then Beam Inc. from Maine-based White Rock Distilleries in 2012.
Calico Jack sits among the Top 10 Best-Selling Rum Brands in America.
9. Appleton Estate
9-Liter Cases Sold in 2021: 255,000
Appleton Estate is the oldest and most famous of all of Jamaica's sugar-cane estates. It makes some of the best rums in the world with characteristic Christmas cake and butterscotch flavors and is known for its long-aged editions.
Appleton, along with the Wray & Nephew and Coruba Rum brands, was acquired by Gruppo Campari in December 2012, as part of the Italian giant’s purchase of the Jamaican company Lascelles deMercado & Co for $409 million.
The Appleton Estate 8 Year Old Reserve is arguably one of the best rums to mix into a Daiquiri, Mojito, and several other cocktail recipes.
8. Castillo
9-Liter Cases Sold in 2021: 391,000
Castillo is a brand made in Puerto Rico by the rum goliath Bacardi under the subsidiary Ron de Castillo. Ron Castillo was designed as a cheaper alternative to Bacardí that could compete on the domestic stages with other brands like Don Q. They are traditional style rums made from molasses.
7. The Kraken
9-Liter Cases Sold in 2021: 503,000
Created by Proximo Spirits in 2010, The Kraken is a blend of Caribbean rums that should certainly suit any fans of rich, navy-style rum.
Named after the Caribbean sea beast of myth and legend, The Kraken is distilled in Trinidad and Tobago where it is blended with 13 secret spices to create a strong, rich, black, and smooth rum. The Kraken is one of the Most Popular Spiced Rums in the U.S.
6. Sailor Jerry
9-Liter Cases Sold in 2021: 608,000
Fully owned by William Grant & Sons since 2008, Sailor Jerry spiced rum is blended with the finest rums from the Caribbean and a recipe of natural spices.
Owner of some of the Most Popular Scotch Whisky Brands in USA, William Grant & Sons boasts distilling and bottling operations in Scotland, Ireland, Iceland, India, the US, and Mexico, with a team of over 2,600 employees at 48 global locations.
Sailor Jerry ranks 6th in our list of Most Popular Rum Brands.
5. Cruzan Rum
9-Liter Cases Sold in 2021: 791,000
Known locally as ‘The Rum of the Islands’, Cruzan Rum is rooted deep in the heart of St. Croix – the largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands. Once the rums are aged at the Cruzan distillery, they are then loaded into tankers and shipped stateside to begin the packaging and distribution process.
Although the brand is now owned by the Japanese Beam Suntory, Inc., the founding Nelthropp family still operates the distillery and handles rum production.
It was reported in 2022 that Beam Suntory, Inc. is in talks with banks and potential suitors to possibly offload some brands, a move that could also include Cruzan Rum.
York street set for tonic with gin and spirits distillery, bar and visitor centre
Darren Greenwood ?- 11/03/2023 ?- UK News Yahoo
A York street is set for a tonic with the approval of a bar, distillery and visitor attraction.
City of York planners have backed the development at 1 Rougier Street , which is currently known as the Society Lounge and Bar.
The building will be rebranded and known as ‘The Hooting Owl and Curious Cat Distillery.’
Work on the scheme is due to start next week, with the centre opening on February 1 next year.
Internally, the ground floor would provide a gin bar and distillery area, with tasting and experience areas on the first floor.
Plans submitted to the council say the proposed use would provide 7 full-time jobs and 10 part-time jobs. It would open daily between pam and 11pm.
The property was part of the proposals for the development known as ‘Northern House,’ which would have seen the building demolished as part of the wider Roman Quarter development, whose site went on sale earlier this year.
A report by council planning staff said Hooting Owl currently operates on Barmby Moor making spirits including gin, vodka and rum. It would relocate its whole operation and also have a visitor attraction, with tours and tasting events.
The report says the site has been empty since the pandemic and there has been no public interest or objection to the scheme.
The scheme “is felt to be a positive benefit” which would generate activity in an area close to hotels and public transport.
The proposed use would outweigh any harm brought about by the loss of a night club, which has long been closed.
“Refusal on this basis could not be justified,” it said.
Recommending approval, council planners said the scheme would “contribute to York’s diverse economy and would complement the visitor experience.”
It would generate activity in the day and evening, would be compatible with existing businesses nearby and would not harm nearby residents. The scheme would not harm heritage assets in a Conservation Area.
“The highway and access impacts of the proposals have been addressed, in terms of deliveries. The site is located in a highly sustainable location in the city centre,” it added. Therefore, a range of local and national planning policies were met and the scheme should be approved.
Hooting Owl founder Dominic Dominic M’Benga, a businessman and former soldier, said today (Friday): “It’s very exciting. We have much to do. We have an opening date of February 1. We should hit that date no problem.”
He also told the Press: “We commence work next week, there will be some ripping out to do, the building needs fully splitting into two, into the bar and public area, and a full decoration.”
Rum and Rhythm Festival showcases best of St Lucia's rum offerings
Sharefil Gaillard ? - 11/04/2023 ?- St Lucia Loop News
Coconut Bay Beach Resort and Spa recently played host to the highly anticipated Rum and Rhythm Festival, a celebration of the island's vibrant rum culture.
The festival not only provided great entertainment for the resort's guests but also served as a platform to introduce them to the rich flavours of Saint Lucia's local rums.
The Resort's Vice President of Sales & Marketing, Natalia Greene, expressed her excitement about the event, stating, "What we have done is to invite Saint Lucia Distillers, makers of our local Bounty Rums, Marigot Bay, Chairmans, and other local rums, giving the visitors firsthand opportunities for tasting and experiencing the diversity of our island's rum production. Our guests were also able to participate in a rum master class for the first time ever with the master blender, Deny Duplessis and CEO Margaret Monplaisir from the Saint Lucia Distillers Group."
The Rum and Rhythm Festival showcased the best of Saint Lucia's rum offerings, allowing guests to sample a wide array of flavours and varieties.
With the participation of Saint Lucia Distillers, renowned for their craftsmanship and dedication to producing high-quality rums, the festival provided a unique chance for visitors to discover the distinct character and exquisite taste of local rums.
The event received an overwhelming response from the resort's guests, who eagerly embraced the opportunity to immerse themselves in the island's rum culture.
The festival served as an educational experience, offering tastings and demonstrations that allowed guests to learn about the production process and the history behind Saint Lucia's rum heritage.
In addition to the delightful rum experiences, Coconut Bay Resort's entertainment staff kept the guests captivated with engaging cultural displays and activities.
Visitors were treated to traditional music performances, lively dance routines, and authentic cultural presentations, all of which showcased the vibrant spirit of the island.
The Rum and Rhythm Festival not only added a vibrant touch to the resort's ambience but also served as a catalyst for promoting local businesses. By collaborating with Saint Lucia Distillers and other local providers such as Peter and Company, Coconut Bay Resort showcased the talent and craftsmanship of the island's producers, encouraging guests to explore and support the local industry.
"We are proud to have hosted the Rum and Rhythm Festival, enabling our guests to indulge in the flavours and traditions that make Saint Lucia so special," said Zachary Frangos, General Manager "The overwhelming participation and positive feedback we received from our guests reflect the success of this event, and we look forward to continuing to offer unique and enriching experiences to our visitors. In fact, we were pleased to announce on social media over the weekend the dates for our 4th Annual Rum & Rhythms Festival now scheduled for October 19 – November 2, 2024."
As Coconut Bay Resort continues to provide exceptional hospitality and memorable experiences, events like the Rum and Rhythm Festival further solidify its position as a premier destination for both relaxation and cultural exploration.
"With our dedication to promoting local heritage and providing top-notch entertainment, the resort remains a favourite among travellers seeking an immersive and unforgettable vacation experience on the south of our exotic island," Greene stated.
Radico Khaitan Ltd. Announces Q2 FY24 Results Reports A Strong All-round Performance
Staff ? - 11/06/2023 ?- Radico Khaitan Limited
Prestige & Above Volume growth of 21.8% y-o-y; Prestige & Above Sales Value growth of 35.6%
Net Revenue of Rs. 925.0 Cr, up 21.5% y-o-y
EBITDA of Rs. 120.6 Cr, up 34.6%; EBITDA margin at 13.0% (up 127 bps Y-o-Y)
NATIONAL, NOVEMBER 6, 2023 (GPN) ?– Radico Khaitan Limited, one of the largest spirits companies in India (referred to as “Radico Khaitan” or the “Company”), announces its results for the second quarter and half year ended September 30, 2023.
Q2 FY24 Performance Summary
Total IMFL volume* of 6.96 Million Cases (-3.1%)
Prestige & Above brands volume of 2.84 Million Cases (+21.8%)
Prestige & Above brands net sales of Rs.489.7 Cr (+35.6%)
Prestige & Above brands contribution to the IMFL volumes of 47.1% (vs. 37.9%)
Prestige & Above brands contribution to the Total IMFL sales value of 70.0% (vs. 59.2%)
Revenue from Operations (Net) of Rs.925.0 Cr (+21.5%)
Gross Profit of Rs.408.3 Cr (+29.1%) at 44.1% margin (+259 bps)
EBITDA of Rs.120.6 Cr at 13.0% margin (+127 bps)
Total comprehensive income of Rs.61.4 Cr (+19.3%)
H1 FY24 Performance Summary
Total IMFL volume* of 14.32 Million Cases (+2.3%)
Prestige & Above brands volume of 5.23 Million Cases (+24.2%)
Prestige & Above brands net sales of Rs.909.2 Cr (+37.7%)
Prestige & Above brands contribution to the IMFL volumes of 41.6% (vs. 33.7%)
Prestige & Above brands contribution to the Total IMFL sales value of 64.7% (vs. 54.6%)
Revenue from Operations (Net) of Rs.1,878.9 Cr (+23.7%)
Gross Profit of Rs.824.2 Cr (+27.5%) at 43.9% margin (+132 bps)
EBITDA of Rs.239.5 Cr at 12.7% margin (+79 bps)
Total comprehensive income of Rs.124.2 Cr (+13.5%)
* Including brands on Royalty
Performance Overview
Commenting
Commenting on the performance, Dr. Lalit Khaitan, Chairman and Managing Director said:
“Radico Khaitan continued its robust performance in line with our expectations despite a challenging operating environment. This was led by a broad-based growth across our premium portfolio. Industry volume growth, particularly in the regular category, remained muted during the quarter. We expect demand momentum to improve with the upcoming festive season. The recent commissioning of the greenfield grain distillery at Sitapur is a significant milestone development in the history of Radico Khaitan and augurs well for our future growth trajectory. We are committed to our long-term strategy of delivering a sustainable premium volume growth. With our strong backward integrated platform and dedication to brand excellence, we are confident in our ability to capitalize on the long-term growth prospects within the Indian spirits industry.” ?
Commenting on the performance, Mr. Abhishek Khaitan, Managing Director said:
“During Q2 FY24, we delivered a strong growth of 22% in our Prestige & Above category brands. We are making remarkable progress in further expanding our brand portfolio and launched next two whiskies in the Jugalbandi series of eight Indian Single Malt whiskies, i.e. Jugalbandi #3 and #4, at The Whisky Show in London. With our Rampur Indian Single Malt portfolio, we have always strived to take India to the World and the recent launch is a testament to our brand creation capabilities and celebrates an ancient Indian artform. Despite a volatile cost environment, our EBITDA margins have sustained on sequential basis. We are confident that we are making progress in the right direction with our business strategies. We are focused on delivering a value-led growth, managing business with agility, harnessing the strength of our extensive distribution network and manufacturing platform, while consistently improving our profit margins.”
Radico Khaitan at a Glance:
Radico Khaitan Limited (“Radico Khaitan” or the Company) is among the oldest and one of the largest manufacturers of IMFL in India. Earlier known as Rampur Distillery Company, Radico Khaitan commenced its operations in 1943 and over the years emerged as a major bulk spirits supplier and bottler to other spirit manufacturers. In 1998 the Company started its own brands with the introduction of 8PM Whisky. Radico Khaitan is one of the few companies in India to have developed its entire brand portfolio organically. The Company’s brand portfolio includes After Dark Whisky, Contessa Rum, Jaisalmer Indian Craft Gin, Magic Moments Vodka, Magic Moments Dazzle Vodka (Gold & Silver), Magic Moments Verve Vodka, Morpheus Brandy, Morpheus Blue Brandy, Old Admiral Brandy, Pluton Bay Rum, Rampur Indian Single Malt Whisky, Royal Ranthambore Heritage Collection-Royal Crafted Whisky, 1965 The Spirit of Victory Premium XXX Rum, 1965 The Spirit of Victory Lemon Dash Premium Flavored Rum, 8PM Premium Black Whisky and 8PM Whisky.
Currently, the Company has seven millionaire brands which are Morpheus Super Premium Brandy, 1965 Spirit of Victory Premium Rum, 8PM Premium Black Whisky, 8PM Whisky, Contessa Rum, Old Admiral Brandy, and Magic Moments Vodka. Radico Khaitan is also one of the largest providers of branded IMFL to the Canteen Stores Department (CSD), which has significant business barriers to entry. The Company has three distilleries in Rampur, Uttar Pradesh and one in Aurangabad, Maharashtra which is a 36% joint venture. The Company has a total owned capacity of 320 million litres and operates 41 bottling units (5 owned, 28 contract and 8 royalty bottling units) spread across the country.
Award-winning Glasgow distillery returns to city centre for Christmas pop-up
Sarah Campbell ? - 11/06/2023 ?- UK News Yahoo
An award-winning distillery has returned to Glasgow city centre for its annual Christmas pop-up shop with a limited edition whisky in celebration of an ‘iconic’ location.
Open seven days a week from now until Saturday, December 30 the Glasgow Distillery finds a temporary home once more within the Princes Square shopping centre on Buchanan Street.
The shop will offer a selection of familiar favourites from an extensive range that includes Glasgow 1770 Single Malt Whisky, Makar Gin and Banditti Club Rum with spirits experts at hand to provide a personal shopping experience.
Sebastian Bunford-Jones, global marketing manager at the Glasgow Distillery said: “We’re returning to the heart of Glasgow, offering customers all the usual distillery favourites alongside special new releases including a limited Princes Square edition of our signature Glasgow 1770 Triple Distilled whisky that has been finished in a Bordeaux red wine cask - an elegant, smooth and fruity single malt worthy of the iconic Glaswegian location it celebrates.”
The Glasgow Distillery was first established in 2012 by a duo who made it their mission to ‘bring premium spirits distillation back to the city they call home’.
The team was later awarded ‘Craft Producers of the Year’ at the Whisky Magazine Icons of Whisky Awards in 2017 and 2019 as well as being named ‘Scottish Whisky Distillery of The Year’ at The Scottish Whisky Awards in 2020.
Glasgow 1770 The Original Single Malt Scotch Whisky, the inaugural expression in the Glasgow 1770 range, has won a series of awards in 2023 including Gold at the International Spirits Challenge, the highest merit of Master at the Spirits Business Scotch Whisky Masters.
Ahead of the festive pop-up, Katie Moody, centre director at Princes Square said: "We are thrilled to welcome The Glasgow Distillery back for their second pop-up shop.
“This year is particularly special as we launch our collaboration, toasting to the festive season and 35 years of Princes Square with a limited-edition single malt."
Priced at ￡64 and limited to 347 bottles, the single malt is available exclusively from Princes Square in a collaboration pack that also includes two branded Glasgow 1770 whisky glasses.
Princes Square is located at 40 Buchanan Street in Glasgow.
5 premium dark rums that are perfect for a winter party; Check their prices here
Eshita Bhargava ? - 11/04/2023 ?- Financial Express
Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or just looking to explore the world of dark rums, here’s a tantalizing introduction to five exceptional rums that have the potential to wow your palate and warm your heart.
As leaves change colour and the air turns crisp, it’s time to take the rums off the shelves and into your glasses. Dark rums with their golden hues go perfectly with the breezy days of autumn. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or just looking to explore the world of dark rums, here’s a tantalizing introduction to five exceptional rums that have the potential to wow your palate and warm your heart.
Camikara 12 YO
Camikara is India’s first pure cane juice rum. It is also the first Indian rum ever to win a gold medal at the prestigious IWSC Awards 2023. With its name derived from the Sanskrit term for ‘liquid gold,’ Camikara rediscovers an age-old Indian rum tradition and is a celebration of the land, time, culture, and people of India. Unlike most rums that are prepared with molasses or by-products of sugarcane, Camikara is a sipping rum naturally aged in ex-bourbon barrels for 12 years. The limited edition is bottled at a strength of 50% ABV and contains no added sugar, flavour, or colour.
Price- Haryana: INR 6,000/-
El Dorado 12-Year-old
El Dorado 12-Year-Old Rum is a lush tropical spirit. It is distilled in South America’s Guyana, where it is patiently aged in oak barrels for more than a decade, resulting in a rich and complex flavor profile. With notes of toffee, vanilla, and dried fruit, it offers a velvety smoothness that lingers on the palate. El Dorado 12-Year-Old Rum delivers a luxurious and unforgettable drinking experience that appeals to rum connoisseurs and novices alike.
Price- Approximately INR 4,000/-
Plantation Original Dark Rum
A blend of traditionalist rums from Barbados and Jamaica, Plantation Original Dark Rum offers a taste of the Caribbean in every sip. It carries a rich flavour profile of ripe banana, vanilla, and subtle toasted coconut notes. With a brilliant deep amber colour, the rum entices with aromas of spice cake, pecan roll, vanilla buttercream, blackstrap molasses, and caramelized fruits. The finish is rich, silky, and zesty.
Price: INR 3,000/-
Ron Zacapa No. 23
Aged at 2,300 meters above sea level in the Guatemalan highlands, Ron Zacapa is a fine example of premium rum excellence. Ron Zacapa No. 23 is made using a blend of rums aged 6 to 23 years old, following the brand’s signature ‘Sistema Solera’ aging method. It is celebrated for its smooth yet complex flavour. Think caramel-like sweetness, flavours of dark chocolate, dried fruits, and a hint of oak. Whether sipped on the rocks or as part of a classic dark rum cocktail, Ron Zacapa is symbolic of luxury and craftsmanship.
Price- Approximately INR 7,000/-
Appleton Estate’s 12-Year-Old Rare Casks
A premium blend of rare hand-selected pot and column still rums aged for a minimum of 12 years in Jamaica, Appleton Estate’s 12-Year-Old Rare Casks is one for keeps. Passionately produced by Master Blender Joy Spence, it is rich with notes of toasted oak, dried fruit, hazelnut, orange peel, vanilla and hints of coffee. It is an extraordinary rum that celebrates Jamaican heritage and charms rum enthusiasts worldwide. Perfect for the season, it is best savoured neat but also makes for fantastic cocktails.
Price: INR 4,500/-
MGP INGREDIENTS (NASDAQ: MGPI) - MGPI MARCHES TO ANOTHER TOP & BOTTOM LINE BEAT
Staff ? - 11/03/2023 ?- TD Cowen
Outperform (1)
ESG Score: 63/100
Price Target: $140.00
THE TD COWEN INSIGHT
MGPI delivered better than expected top line growth in 3Q23, driven by brown goods across both distilling solutions and branded products. Unwind of negative margin distilling products continues; guidance for revenues holds, adjusted EBITDA and EPS guidance comes up above the prior range. Brown spirits demand continues to remain strong in the U.S.; Maintain Outperform.
Brown Goods Remain a Standout. The logic of reorienting the distilling solutions business was well on display in this first transitional quarter, as brown goods sales were up nearly 28%, well ahead of our +20% estimate. This in turn drove the overall segment top line beat (of 530 bps), where we had modeled a 2.3% decline. From a margin perspective, distilling solutions saw meaningful expansion at both the gross (+590 bps) and profit before tax (+560 bps) levels, reflecting continued positive mix shift towards brown goods as the company continues to prudently minimize white goods/industrial alcohol volumes ahead of the closure of the Atchison distillery in 2024.
Branded Spirits Continues to Premiumize. Consistent with the company's longer-term strategy to drive both top and bottom line accretion from branded spirits, management's premiumization playbook was well on display. Segment growth came entirely from premium + price points (+33%, a healthy 9.4 pt acceleration on the 2-year stack, sequentially). Ultra premium (highest priced) continued to meaningfully outpace the other subsegments, delivering impressive 46% growth. In part this reflected the acquisition of Penelope bourbon, as 3Q23 marked the brand's first full quarter of contribution. Super premium growth of +9%, and premium growth of +18% was also solid.
CEO Change. Prior to the call, it was announced that Dave Colo will retire as President and CEO at the end of the year. Colo will be succeeded by David Bratcher, MGPI's Chief Operating Officer and President of Branded Spirits. Bratcher previously served in several leadership roles at Luxco since 1998, including as President since 2013, and joined MGPI as COO and President of Branded Spirits following the acquisition of Luxco in 2021. While Colo has overseen a transformation in MGPI's business model, Bratcher has helped shape that transformation alongside Colo since the closing of the Luxco acquisition, and noted the strategic direction of the company will not change.
Saverglass Sets New Industry Standards with Successful Hydrogen Combustion Trials in Pursuit of Sustainable Glass Production
Staff ? - 11/03/2023 ?- Colangelo PR
Saverglass, the world's leading manufacturer and decorator of luxury and high-end glass bottles for wines and spirits, is achieving a significant milestone in its commitment to carbon reduction. The company's Sustainable Research & Development Department recently spearheaded groundbreaking hydrogen combustion trials at its Feuquières industrial site in France, marking a pivotal moment in the glass industry's journey toward greener production practices.
"Decarbonization is a fundamental component within Saverglass’ Sustainable Research & Development Department. This trial empowers us to push the boundaries, advance our roadmap, and complement our repertoire with innovative technical solutions," said Frédéric Dupuis, Director of Research and Development at Saverglass Group.“Our confidence in integrating hydrogen as a core element of our production process stems from its potential to significantly reduce carbon emissions while establishing novel industry standards for eco-conscious glass manufacturing."
The key objective of this pioneering experiment was to explore the possibilities of mixed combustion using hydrogen and natural gas, with the potential to revolutionize traditional glassmaking processes. Hydrogen, a "clean" energy source, produces only water and no CO2 emissions when it burns. This remarkable attribute has the potential to transform the glass industry, combat climate change, and conserve valuable resources.
Experts from Saverglass's industrial Production, Melting, Health, and Safety Environmental Departments meticulously conducted hydrogen injection tests at three distinct rates: 10%, 20%, and 30%. The results of this comprehensive test campaign underscore Saverglass's unwavering commitment to harnessing hydrogen to decarbonize its glassmaking process.
Hydrogen is widely recognized as a clean energy source, and its incorporation into the glass production process is a monumental leap toward greener practices. Saverglass believes that by substituting hydrogen for natural gas, they can play a pivotal role in addressing climate change and preserving precious natural resources.
Mr. Dupuis added: "The positive outcome of the hydrogen combustion trials highlights Saverglass' resolute dedication to innovation, sustainability, and environmental responsibility. In a time when the global community is ardently pursuing reducing its carbon emissions and transitioning towards environmentally conscious production practices, Saverglass indisputably stands as an industry leader. The company is poised to release its annual Corporate Social Responsibility Report this Fall/Winter 2023, detailing its ongoing endeavors to cut its carbon footprint by 50% by 2035 and ultimately attain carbon neutrality by 2050."
For more information about Saverglass' sustainability commitment, please visit https://www.saverglass.com/en/csr . To stay updated on coming news, follow Saverglass on Instagram @saverglassofficial and LinkedIn @saverglass.
Spirits sales slip in the US On Premise but some categories show resilience, CGA by NIQ's OPM reveals
Staff ? - 11/06/2023 ?- CGA by NIQ
A slight drop in visits and price rises have contributed to a fall in spirits sales in the US On Premise over the last year.
Those are among the headlines in the latest edition of CGA by NIQ’s On Premise Measurement (OPM) Impact Report. The exclusive research reveals a 3.3% drop in spirit sales by volume in the 52 weeks to early September. 1.5 oz Spirits prices have risen by an average of 4.8% from the previous 52-week period, generating a 1.4% increase in sales by value.
However, price increases may have reduced the visits and purchases of consumers who have had limited discretionary spending in 2023. The number of consumers visiting the On Premise at least three times in the previous three-month period dropped from 81% in May to 79% in October.
CGA’s OPM service delivers extensive breakdowns of spirits sales by price tier* (with definitions aligned to NIQ’s Off Premise price tier groups), sub-category, state and more. It shows that value and mid-range spirits recorded the biggest drops in sales by volume over the last year, of 8.6% and 6.4% respectively. By contrast, sales of premium and super-premium spirits both fell by less than 1%, while the ultra-category grew volumes by +3.5%.
By category, gin was the only spirit to achieve an increase in volume sales over the 52-week period. The On Premise’s three biggest spirit categories—whiskey (-2.7%), tequila (-0.8%) and vodka (-3.4%)—were all in the red.
CGA’s state-by-state analysis indicates year-on-year volume growth in spirits in some states, including New York (+3.9%) and Illinois (+2.8%). However, volumes were down in most other regions, including key states like California (-1.6%) and Texas (-6.9%).
CGA’s OPM research provides extensive breakdowns of sales patterns in spirits and all other drinks categories in the US On Premise. The expert analysis helps suppliers and operators understand trends and respond with effective strategies.
Matthew Compton, CGA by NIQ’s Regional Director – North America, said: “With consumers’ spending under pressure, it’s no surprise to see a small drop in sales volumes over the last 12 months, with middle price tier brands feeling the squeeze as many guests sensitive to price may be reducing their purchases or trading down. However, some categories and states continue to perform well, and solid figures at the top end of the market show some consumers remain very happy to pay for quality. Pinpointing these nuances in sales and behavior will be crucial to protecting sales and share in a challenging and competitive environment, and our OPM service is here to help businesses achieve exactly that.”
To discover more about CGA by NIQ’s On Premise Measurement solution, along with expert support for understanding trends at category, segment and brand level within the US and Canadian On Premise, contact Matthew Crompton at [email protected] or visit ?https://cgastrategy.com/unlock-the-potential-of-opm .
New Hangover Remedy Shot Claims Ability to Reduce BAC Faster
Staff ? - 11/06/2023 ?- Brewbound
A new beverage claiming to reduce consumers’ blood alcohol content (BAC) will hit the market next month.
Safety Shot will launch in December, available direct-to-consumer through DrinkSafetyShot.com and Amazon. The company plans to launch in stores in the first quarter of 2024, according to a press release.
Safety Shot is a patented beverage that claims to be the first to help drinkers “feel better faster by reducing blood alcohol content and boosting clarity.”
The company cited a product safety test that found that Safety Shot reduced a person’s BAC by 0.076% BAC per hour, versus 0.01% BAC per hour without the beverage shot.
Kentucky: Small bourbon distillers seek ability to self-distribute spirits
Staff ? - 11/06/2023 ?- Spectrum News 1
As Kentucky’s bourbon industry continues to grow, advocates for its success are calling on state lawmakers to grant distilleries more ways to get their products to market.
The Kentucky Distillers’ Association is asking the state to allow small distilleries the ability to self-distribute its products
Small wineries and microbreweries already have this ability
Currently small distilleries must partner with a distributor to get products on store shelves
Lawmakers seemed opened to making the change during an October legislative meeting
Currently, distilleries must partner with distributors to get their products on store shelves, but some places may not be at the production level to do that. Advocates are now asking the state to grant micro-distilleries the ability to self-distribute small volumes of its spirits.
As Jack Mazurak with the Kentucky Distillers’ Association explains, it’s a change that gets more eyes on emerging brands.
?“If we can successfully grow some of these, that means more jobs locally, more tax revenue locally, more tourism locally,” Mazurak said. “That’s great for Kentucky’s economy, especially in the rural and the rural counties and in the rural parts of the state.”
Lynne Dant, chief operating officer of Log Still Distillery in Nelson County, agrees.
“(Self-distribution) not just helps build our brand, but kind of helps seed the market so that we can just partner and grow with our distributors more,” Dant said.
Dant comes from a family of distillers. Her grandfather had his own distillery where the current one sits. Dant founded Log Still with two of her cousins to keep the legacy of bourbon making in her family alive and began making spirits last year.
“We actively started construction of this facility, probably in 2020,” Dant said. “And we went live with production last summer, so in July 2022.”
Dant says Log Still distills around 22,000 barrels per year — which is far less than well-known names just a short way up the road in Bardstown but is still considered large for a micro-distillery.
Log Still currently works with a beverage distributor but Dant says they would benefit from self-distribution, as would many others who have not made one of those partnerships.
“This is really an opportunity for especially the small ones, but even the larger craft distilleries, like Log Still, to really be able to get our brand out and help our wholesalers to develop that brand to the point that it becomes enough critical mass to warrant their ambition,” Dant said.
Earlier this year the Kentucky Legislature passed Senate Bill 28, allowing small wineries to sell small volumes of wine. Microbreweries were granted the same opportunity in 2021. Now small business owners like Dant are asking for the same ability. “We’re just looking for parity with the wine and beer industries,” she said.
Dant and Mazurak say they’re hopeful to see legislation making this change passed in 2024.
During an October interim committee meeting in Frankfort, state lawmakers expressed their support for the rule change, citing it as another way to support the state’s bourbon industry.
KDA Members: Membership - Kentucky Distillers' Association (kybourbon.com )
How do you tackle the Indian beverage alcohol market? IWSR assesses the opportunities and nuances of India's market landscape
Staff ? - 11/07/2023 ?- www.theiwsr.com/
India’s constitution enshrines an ‘endeavour’ to prohibit alcohol, any implementation of which is devolved to the individual states. Whilst it would be na?ve, therefore, to ignore this context or overtly challenge this ethos, India has evolved into a hugely promising market for beverage alcohol brand owners, with yet more enormous growth potential – but in such a complex, regulated and sometimes challenging country, detailed local knowledge is key.
Recent consumption growth in India has been both dynamic and broad-based: in 2022, spirits volumes climbed by 12%, beer rose by 38%, RTDs were up 40% and wine increased by 19%, according to IWSR figures; and, in all cases, value rose ahead of volume.
“The volume growth seen in India in 2022 was still in the nature of a recovery following the Covid-19 pandemic, particularly in beer,” explains Emily Neill, COO Research, IWSR. “All categories are offering strong double-digit growth in the context of a global market only registering single-digit advances.”
IWSR category forecasts also point to a positive outlook for all major categories in India in the years ahead: while global TBA (total beverage alcohol) volumes are expected to rise at a CAGR of only +1% between 2022 and 2027, the forecast figure for India’s spirits volumes is +4%, with beer at +3%, RTDs at +10% and wine at +7%. Value trends are forecast to follow a similar trajectory
Favourable demographics and a knowledgeable consumer base
Demographic factors underpin this growth: India’s drinking age population is relatively young and increasingly affluent. The country’s median age was 25.7 in 2012, versus 35.2 in China and 37.0 in the US, and will be 37.2 in 2050 (with China at 48.7 and the US at 40.0). Each year another 15 to 20 million citizens reach LDA age (source: UN World Population Prospects).
By 2050, India’s working age population is predicted to top 1.1bn (versus 790m in China and 255m in the US) (source: UN World Population Prospects). Between 2021 and 2031, it’s estimated that another 283m people will join India’s middle classes (source: ICE360 household survey).
Generational attitudes show a greater interest in alcohol among younger LDA Indians, according to IWSR consumer research. While older (40+) drinkers are moderating their consumption, millennials are over-indexing significantly on nine out of the top 10 drinks categories, including beer, wine, Champagne, and a number of spirits segments.
Beyond demographic factors, the intrinsic nature of the country’s beverage alcohol market is also advantageous. “One of the key attributes of the Indian market is that demand is configured in a western way,” explains Jason Holway, IWSR Senior Market Analyst. “If you compare it to, say, China, where baijiu dominates spirits volumes, Indian consumers already drink whisky, brandy, rum, vodka and gin.
“So, on a purely practical level, if you’re looking to encourage more or better consumption, domestic demand for these products already exists – the biggest volumes in each spirits categories are for Indian made foreign liquor (IMFL). In many other emerging markets, you first have to convert consumers to your product before you can take them up to premium, higher-priced brands.
“The main function of an international brand in this context is to be aspirational – but, in India, you don’t have to tell people as much about how or when to use your product. They already know that.”
Again, the quality of local products is improving all the time, meaning that Indian whiskies and gins, for example, are credibly moving up the price ladder and becoming increasingly aspirational to local consumers, increasing competition.
IWSR consumer research also reveals a heightened interest in moderation. “India will almost certainly be a key market in any reconfiguration of TBA globally to no/low-alcohol” says Luke Tegner, Consulting Director – Rest of World, IWSR. “But, in an extremely price-sensitive market, pricing itself will be a challenge. Whilst lowered excise rates should permit no/low products to be attractively priced against their alcohol inclusive equivalents, they are likely to remain much more expensive than many soft drinks.”
A fragmented and complex market landscape
While the scale of the opportunity in India is clear enough, so too are the challenges and barriers to growth – above and beyond the obvious issues of high import and excise tariffs.
India’s beverage alcohol market is very fragmented and extremely complex, Tegner cautions. “The levels of bureaucracy are phenomenal and, whatever you do, you have to do on a state-by-state basis,” he explains. “You can’t do things nationwide, so you really need a well-connected, knowledgeable importer and distributor. You certainly don’t want to try to do it all yourself.”
Logistics need to be planned at a local level; it’s easy to lose sight of the sheer size of some of Indian states. The size of Maharashtra’s population, for example, is equivalent to that of Japan, while Karnataka’s rivals that of the UK.
Local challenges, meanwhile, include labelling – which will often specify that a product can only be sold in a certain state – and maximum retail pricing, which can destroy margins, especially at a time of rising costs.
The conformation of the market also complicates the establishment of a viable ecommerce channel in India – something which would seem to be an obvious benefit, given the widespread use of mobile technology and the cheapness of data.
In a country where the legal drinking age varies from 18 to 25, having chain of custody proof of age technology is likely to require “massive investment which may do little more than just increase unit costs”, warns Holway. He also points out that the consumer need is already being met via informal ‘quick commerce’, where a purchaser simply calls a liquor store and arranges local delivery for cash.
However, the fragmentation of India’s beverage alcohol landscape could also prove beneficial to market newcomers, who can start small and expand their market presence progressively.
“The advantage here is that you don’t have to be nationwide and launch everywhere straightaway,” says Holway, who advises prioritising key regions/cities, such as Maharashtra, Haryana, Delhi/NCR, Karnataka, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu and/or Goa.
“Some of these regions are cheaper and easier to become involved in,” Holway adds. “And one of the reasons why it’s good to be in these places is the recent improvement in the quality of retail, with high-class, duty free-style stores popping up in big metropolitan areas such as Mumbai, Hyderabad and Chennai. These have mainly been in Tier 1 cities to date but establishment in Tier 2 cities is already on the horizon.
“So, however you approach the Indian market, you must be selective and build slowly – you don’t need to have a presence everywhere from the very beginning.”.
Until the next newsletter!
Federico Hernández - The Rum Lab