Bart Laming
In the world of spirits, few stories are as rich and evocative as that of Flor de Caña, the premium rum brand that has been a symbol of Nicaraguan pride for over a century. From its humble beginnings in 1890 to its rise as a globally recognized rum, Flor de Caña’s journey is a testament to resilience, craftsmanship, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. This year, the brand’s spirit of adventure found a new expression in the high-octane world of Grand Prix racing, as Flor de Caña took center stage as a sponsor at the 2023 Miami Grand Prix.
A Journey Born from Adventure
The Flor de Caña story began in 1890 when Alfredo Francisco Pellas Canessa, a young adventurer from Genoa, Italy, set sail for the exotic lands of Nicaragua. He established a distillery at the base of the San Cristóbal volcano, the tallest and most active volcano in Nicaragua. The fertile lands, enriched water, and hot volcanic climate proved instrumental in forging the rum’s unique and smooth flavor.
Over the years, Flor de Caña has weathered earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, civil wars, and even a plane crash. Yet, through it all, the brand has remained a family business for five generations, a testament to its resilience and commitment to quality.A Commitment to Sustainability and Quality
Flor de Caña’s commitment to sustainable practices is not just a business strategy; it’s a philosophy that shapes every aspect of their rum production. The brand prides itself on its natural aging process, with each expression of their rum aged in bourbon barrels under the tropical climate of Nicaragua. This process, combined with the fertile volcanic soil where the sugarcane is grown, contributes to the distinctive flavor profile of Flor de Caña rums.
The brand’s range of expressions offers a journey through the art of rum-making. The youthful vibrancy of their 4-year-old white rum, Flor de Caña Ultra Lite, is a perfect introduction, with its light-bodied profile and hints of almond and vanilla. It pairs beautifully with light dishes such as grilled fish or fresh salads.
At the other end of the spectrum, the Flor de Caña 25, their luxury expression, is a testament to the brand’s craftsmanship. This rum, with its deep amber color, offers a complex bouquet of flavors, from toasted nuts and dark chocolate to rich fruits. It’s a rum to be savored slowly, perhaps paired with a fine cigar or a rich dessert.The Thrill of the Race: Flor de Caña and the Miami Grand Prix
In 2023, Flor de Caña found a new stage to showcase its spirit of adventure: the Miami Grand Prix. The synergy between the brand and the world of Grand Prix racing is undeniable. Both represent a pursuit of excellence, a love for adventure, and a commitment to delivering thrilling experiences.The 2023 Miami Grand Prix was a spectacle of speed and skill, with Max Verstappen delivering a masterclass in tire management to secure a victory. The event was enhanced by the presence of Flor de Caña, which brought its unique Nicaraguan flair to the event. Attendees had the opportunity to savor Flor de Caña’s premium rums, making the event a celebration of speed, skill, and fine spirits.
A Toast to Excellence
Flor de Caña’s commitment to quality has not gone unnoticed. The brand has received numerous accolades, including being named the “Best Rum Producer of the Year” at the International Wine and Spirit Competition in 2017. Flor de Caña 12 year old has won the Best Premium Rum award at the 2023 Ambrosia Awards. But perhaps the most significant recognition comes from the countless rum enthusiasts who have embraced Flor de Caña as a symbol of premium rum.
In 2023, Flor de Caña continued its tradition of excellence, earning the Double Gold Medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition for its 25-year-old rum1. This award, one of the most prestigious in the spirits industry, is a testament to Flor de Caña’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship.
Flor de Caña is more than just a rum; it’s a celebration of Nicaraguan heritage, a testament to resilience and craftsmanship, and a symbol of the spirit of adventure. Whether it’s being savored in a quiet moment or shared in the thrilling atmosphere of a Grand Prix race, Flor de Caña is a tribute to the art of rum-making and the joy of savoring life’s adventures.
