Rum Zacapa Centenario Reserve 23 Years (Guatemala)

Zacapa Centario rum is the result of the work and dedication of the Spanish doctor and chemistry Alejandro Burgaleta and the result in the obtained mixture of rones of the virgin honey of the sugar cane.

Mr. Alejandro Burgaleta
(Thanks to Mr. Alejandro Burgaleta for send us his photo)  

At the turn of the century, several Guatemalan pioneer families, in the liquor industry, individually established their own companies throughout the country. Among them Industria Licorera Guatemalteca (est. 1914), Industria Licorera Euzkadi (est. 1930), Licorera Zacapaneca (est. 1930) and Industria Licorera Quezalteca (est. 1939).

By the end of 1944, the liquor industry had earned an important role in the country's economy. At this point in time, the need to obtain investment capital to improve equipment and acquire new technologies became a motivating factor leading to the unification of the companies. The result of this unification was the formation of the industrial group Industrias Licoreras de Guatemala which allowed to improve and standardize production quality.

Taking the integration process further, La Nacional, Distribuidora de Licores S.A. was created in 1959 with the sole purpose of unifying marketing, distribution and sales efforts in the market. Today's "unified" vision includes, among other entities, an in-house printing company that takes care of internal and external marketing needs, as well as, label printing, regional distribution centers, product transportation services and a very strong commitment towards a globalized market.

What started as an effort by a handful of enthusiastic entrepreneurs has evolved over the years into a very successful and prosperous corporation with a well deserved international recognition. La Nacional has an extensive line of products which account for 98% of the domestic spirits market. In addition to its comprehensive line of "Botran" rums, La Nacional also produces "Ron Zacapa Centenario" a must in every serious rum drinker's collection.

One of the keys to the success of these rums is the fact that after distillation, which is done at sea level, the rum is taken to an aging facility located in the mountains at an altitude of 7,650 feet, where it develops its characteristic body, flavor and aroma. Current aging capacity is at 2.6 million liters.

The fermentation, distillation and aging facilities of La Nacional are a perfect example of the harmonious marriage between new technology, environmental consciousness and a respect for tradition. Fermentation here takes place in closed containers that allow for the capture of Carbon Dioxide (CO2), which is later filtered, then liquefied under pressure and sold. After fermentation, the wash is distilled in the continuous column still. Upon exit from the still, the wash still contains some methane gas which is extracted and burnt at the boiler plant to produce steam, needed for the distillation, and more than enough electricity to run the equipment in the plant. The spent wash is then routed via underground pipes some five miles to the sugarcane fields where it is used to irrigate and fertilize the soil.

Ron Zacapa Centenario(23-year, 80 proof). The age statement of this rum represents the average age of the rums in the blend. Everything about this rum is living proof of the attention to detail that characterizes all rums produced by La Nacional. From the masterfully crafted, hand-woven wrapper to its skillfully selected and blended contents. This rum's dark brown-amber color sets the tone for an exciting drinking experience. Well rounded oak aroma speaks of aging and refinement. In the palate layer upon layer of flavors including nutmeg, toasted hazelnut and a hint of caramel. Smooth finish with a long aromatic persistence. Enjoy it neat or on the rocks.

This rum has earned its place in the history books as a benchmark for super premiums. First place winner in the Premium Rums category at the 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001 and 2002 Caribbean Week's Rum Tasting Competition.