HAVANA CLUB
Havana Club Rum: The soul of Cuba in every sip
Havana Club Rum is much more than just an alcoholic beverage; it is a true Cuban institution that embodies the spirit and culture of Cuba. Recognized for its exceptional quality and distinctive character, Havana Club is a rum brand that appeals to fans around the world. Let's dive into the fascinating history of Havana Club, its different variations and the best ways to enjoy it.
A story of Cuban tradition
The history of Havana Club begins in 1934, when José Arechabala founded the brand in Cárdenas, a port city in Cuba. Havana Club quickly stood out for its high-quality rum, produced using traditional Cuban methods. After the Cuban revolution, the company was nationalized in 1960, and the production of Havana Club rum became a national source of pride, synonymous with Cuban excellence. Today, Havana Club is co-managed by the Cuban government and Pernod Ricard, perpetuating Cuban heritage and know-how.
The different variants of Havana Club
Havana Club offers a diverse range of rums, each with its own characteristics and nuances. Here are some of the most popular expressions:
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Havana Club Añejo 3 Años: This white rum is aged for three years, providing clarity and purity ideal for cocktails. It features aromas of vanilla, caramel and cocoa, with subtle notes of wood and tropical fruit.
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Havana Club Añejo 7 Años: A dark rum aged for seven years, recognized for its complexity and richness. It offers aromas of cocoa, vanilla, cedar and tropical fruits, with a velvety softness on the palate.
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Havana Club Selección de Maestros: This premium rum is the result of a collaboration between the best Maestros Roneros (master rum makers) in Cuba. It is aged in selected oak barrels and offers complex aromas of nuts, spices, tobacco and wood.
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Havana Club Añejo 15 Años: A prestigious rum, aged for 15 years, which stands out for its depth and elegance. It presents notes of dried fruits, dark chocolate, vanilla and oak, with a long and delicate finish.
The art of tasting
Tasting a Havana Club rum is an experience to savor. Here are some tips to get the most out of it:
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Choose the right glass: Use a tasting glass or a tulip glass to concentrate the aromas and allow a better appreciation of the olfactory nuances.
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Observe the color: The hue of rum can tell a lot about its age and aging process. Older rums often have a darker color due to the prolonged influence of the barrel.
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Smell the aromas: Take the time to breathe deeply the aromas of the rum. Identify the different notes – vanilla, spices, wood, tropical fruits – that make up its bouquet.
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Taste with care: Take a small sip and let the rum coat your palate. Note the initial flavors, the evolutions in the mouth and the finish. A rum like Havana Club deserves to be enjoyed slowly, discovering each layer of flavor.
Iconic cocktails based on Havana Club
Havana Club is the perfect base for many classic and modern cocktails. Here are some ideas to inspire your creations:
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Mojito: Use Havana Club Añejo 3 Años to make this Cuban classic. Mix 50ml of rum with lime juice, sugar, fresh mint and sparkling water. Serve over crushed ice for a refreshing cocktail.
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Daiquiri: Mix 50 ml of Havana Club Añejo 3 Años with fresh lime juice and sugar syrup. Shake with ice and serve in a chilled glass.
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Cuba Libre: Simple but timeless, mix 50 ml of Havana Club Añejo 3 Años with 150 ml of cola. Serve over ice with a slice of lime for a touch of freshness.
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Old Cuban: Combine 50 ml of Havana Club Añejo 7 Años with lime juice, sugar syrup, fresh mint and champagne. Serve in a champagne flute for an elegant and festive cocktail.
A rum for every occasion
Whether for an evening with friends, a summer party or simply to relax after a long day, Havana Club is a versatile rum that suits all occasions. Its distinctive taste and rich history make it a popular choice for rum lovers around the world.