The Cuban rum, internationally renowned thanks to emblematic brands like Havana Club, stands out among the added values per excellence in Cuban tourist offers to complement an option of sun, beaches, history, culture and traditions.

According to experts, the Cuban rum is regarded as a liqueur for important events; a position gained after it emerged in the island together with the introduction of sugar cane and, since then, the rum has accompanied Cubans in their cultural gatherings.

The abovementioned liqueur stems from "aguardiente" (a strong alcoholic beverage), obtained from the molasses in cane sugar production, which was originally used in rituals by slaves from the so-called black continent.

Between 1762 and 1792, Cuba supplied the international market with rum which, eventually, became the genuine Cuban rum in the 18th and 19th centuries, accumulating a rich history that has survived to the present day.

According to experts, rum is the result of a number of exclusive factors which include climate, the soil from where the raw material comes from, aging time and care during its production.

Likewise, each distillery contributes a specific brand in the market with special bouquet, taste and color to gather its own circle of followers.

The most renowned rum brand in Cuba is Havana Club, produced in one of the biggest distilleries in Latin America, with a production capacity of 30 million liters a year.

Beyond the brand, all rums have a common origin and the main objective is to meet the tastes of domestic and foreign followers; together with the purpose of enjoying an excellent cup of rum at the right moment.

Likewise, the different Havana Club cocktails enjoy a privileged position among the most relevant drinks.

An actual avalanche of options emerged in the 1920’s, with mixtures which were named after their creators, famous artists or just the name of the place where they were served for the first time.

Specialists in cocktails, a mixture that has become an art, have standards that have not been written but cannot be overlooked, if the desired effect is to be achieved when preparing a delicious combination.

If sugar is used, experts recommend its dissolution in water, soda or fruit juice; never in the rum itself. If fruit juices are used to dissolute sugar, then they should be fresh in order for the cocktail to absorb the fruit essence and the cocktail must be served as soon as it is ready.

Those interested in knowing about the history and production of Havana Club rum, have the opportunity to visit the Havana Club museum in Havana, located in colonial building dating back to the 18th century.

The facility, built around a magnificent patio, is decorated in an authentic and classic style and specialists show every step of the production process thanks to the reconstruction of the original distillery.