Rum Zacapa: the authentic expression
of Guatemala

With its unique history and numerous awards, Zacapa rum is a true symbol of Guatemala. Founded in 1976 by the Botran family to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the founding of the town of Zacapa, its aim from the outset was to create an entirely different and innovative product, focusing on ageing: at the time, only young, white rums were produced.

A decisive moment in the history of Zacapa was the arrival in 1980 of Lorena Vazquez, to this day the distillery's Master Blender, who with her talent gave a decisive shake to the company's production method, bringing it into the world elite of the best rums. From its history to its flavour, everything in Zacapa rum is inspired by the natural elements of Guatemala, from the fire and black stone of its volcanoes to the harsh climate of the northern highlands.

Production and the Solera method

Pure cane juice is fermented for five days with the addition of yeasts extracted from the pineapple, which give the liqueur, locally called 'Virgin Honey' for its sweetish notes, a special flavour.

Under the careful supervision of Lorena Vazquez, after distillation the rum produced is aged in oak barrels, handmade by renowned craftsmen. Each cask has a well-defined character and a story to tell: white oak casks have been used to store American whisky, while European oak casks have contained cognac, Sherry or Pedro Ximénez. Each of them has different degrees of toasting and, from time to time, Lorena Vazquez decides which ones to use to give different complexities.

The mountain air allows the rum to age gently, favouring the development of its intense aroma and perfume. For ageing, the Solera method, invented in Spain more than five centuries ago, is followed: the barrels are arranged in a pyramid, starting at the top, with the youngest distillate, and arriving at the base, with rums aged more than 25 years. The blending of rums from different vintages and the altitude, which generates an exchange of aromas between wood and liquor, allow the creation of an extraordinary and complex rum with a rich and harmonious flavour.