When you think rum, you probably think of frozen cocktails enjoyed a hot summer beach. Brugal 1888, the latest addition to the Brugal Rum portfolio, is here to change that. This full-bodied spirit evokes the quintessential flavors of fall with tastes of chocolate, roasted coffee beans, hints of cinnamon and dried fruit.
Named for the year in which the distillery was founded, Brugal 1888 is crafted under the strictest secrecy by five generations of Brugal family Maestros Roneros (rum masters). Brugal is the only rum 100% produced in the Dominican Republic, where rum was born in 1793. Much like French champagne and Mexican tequila, Dominican rum is classified under the Denomination of Protect Origin (DOP) meaning true rum can only come from the DR.
A careful, double aging process helps set Brugal 1888 apart from the pack. It begins in medium toasted American white oak casks, followed by a second maturation in first-filled Sherry oak casks – hand-crafted or hand-picked under the guidance of George Espie, Master of Wood for Macallan Scotch Whisky. The casks are specifically arranged horizontally during the process so that liquid is in constant contact with the wood, allowing it to take on its color, aroma and taste.
Brugal 1888 is now available in Philadelphia so I had a chance to sample some this weekend. The warm flavors of toffee caramel, wood and licorice made me long for cooler weather and nights by the fire … perfectly paired, of course, with a fine spirit for sipping.
