Zacapa Solera Gran Reserva No. 23, the rum that changed the way ageing is understood
Zacapa Solera Gran Reserva No. 23 is one of the world’s most widely recognized rums. Not only for its balanced flavour, but for the way it is crafted. At Licorea, we regard it as a clear benchmark within the premium aged rum category. A spirit that has earned its place among those who look for more than just a sweet or easy-drinking rum.
This Zacapa Solera Gran Reserva No. 23 is born in Guatemala, a country with a less familiar rum-making tradition, yet one that is highly respected by experts. Its character does not follow trends. Here, time, technique and a clear vision come together in every bottle.
Guatemalan origin and a distinctive raw material
One of the defining factors of Zacapa Solera Gran Reserva No. 23 lies in its origin. It is produced in Guatemala at over 2,300 metres above sea level. This is far from incidental. The altitude provides more stable temperatures and allows for a slower, more controlled maturation.
Unlike many Caribbean rums, Zacapa is not made from traditional molasses. Instead, it uses virgin sugar cane honey, a very pure first pressing that creates a cleaner, smoother base. This choice shapes the profile from the very beginning and explains its silky texture.
The water used comes from volcanic spring sources. Every stage of the process is carefully considered from the outset, something that is clearly reflected in the final result.
The solera system at the heart of ageing
Zacapa Solera Gran Reserva No. 23 is matured using the solera system. This method blends rums of different ages to achieve a consistent and well-balanced profile. In this case, rums aged for a minimum of six years are combined.
The barrels play a crucial role. Casks previously used for American bourbon, sherry, Pedro Ximénez wines and finally charred oak are employed. Each type of wood contributes its own nuances, building layers of flavour without any single note dominating.
The result is not an aggressive or extreme rum. It is carefully assembled, designed to offer complexity while maintaining harmony.
A rum to be enjoyed at a relaxed pace
Zacapa Solera Gran Reserva No. 23 is best enjoyed neat. A quiet moment with a glass is enough to appreciate the depth of its ageing. It can also be enjoyed with a large ice sphere, which softens the profile without excessive dilution.
This is not a rum made for quick mixes. The experience lies in taking your time, in the aroma and in how it evolves on the palate.
It pairs beautifully with dark chocolate, toasted nuts or a good coffee. It also suits long after-dinner conversations and unhurried moments.
International recognition and prestige
Over the years, Zacapa has received numerous awards at international competitions. These accolades are no coincidence. They reflect a consistent and well-executed production process.
At Licorea, we see it as a rum that often surprises even those already familiar with aged spirits. For many customers, it represents a natural step up from simpler rums towards more complex profiles.
Licorea’s view on Zacapa No. 23
This Zacapa Solera Gran Reserva No. 23 is the only Guatemalan rum in our entire selection that maintains such a stable and recognisable presence. We believe it offers lovers of aged rum a different way of understanding wood influence and maturation.
It does not aim to be intense or extreme. It aims for balance. And that is precisely what many of our customers value when they choose it for the first time and return to it.
A serious rum, well crafted and with its own identity. That is how we understand Zacapa Solera Gran Reserva No. 23 within our selection.
