The iconic Central American rum is bringing some much-needed action in the otherwise staid world of premium rums in India. 

Venezuelan rum is among the most respected rums in the world. And the most famous of them is Diplomático, whose full range is now available in India, thanks to a Mumbai-based company, Monika Enterprises, one of India’s leading importers and distributors of Premium Spirits and Wines, which was started by Bhimji Patel in 2008 and today, they represent more than 42 brands pouring 120 labels of Spirits and Wines like Bushmills Irish Whiskey, Russian Standard Vodka, Jose Cuervo Tequila, Laurent Perrier, and Diplomático Rum.

Venezuelan rum is protected by the country’s policy of denomination of origin (D.O.C) called ‘Ron De Venezuela’, and the rum makers there guard it quite fiercely. Like in the case of Scotch whisky, the Venezuelan rum cannot be produced anywhere else in the world. All rums are required to be aged in oak barrels for a minimum of two years, and should contain at least 40 per cent alcohol. Artificial colour, flavour, aroma, or mixing of the rum with molasses or alcohol from other countries are all forbidden. All sugarcane used has to be produced locally as well.

Diplomático, which is sold in 95 countries, is produced at a distillery set up in 1959 at the foot of the Andes Mountain in a small town called La Miel. The rum is made from a mix of sugarcane honey, pure water from the Andes mountains, and sugarcane molasses that undergo three different distillation processes. The rum is aged in four different kinds of barrels, predominantly those used for bourbon and malt whisky barrels. This provides the rum its complexity, flavour, and smoothness. The iconic face on the bottles of the Diplomático range is of Don Juancho (Don Juan Meléndez). He was a local nobleman who put his heart into exploring the sources, ingredients, and methods behind the many alluring flavours of rum and other traditional beverages.

Kunal Patel, Managing Partner of Monika Enterprises, says, ‘Diplomático is our crown jewel and the entire range makes up our premium rum segment. Though the sipping rum category is still emerging in India, it’s one of the best rums to start off your sipping journey with.’ Premium aged rum is a relatively new concept in India, but is fast catching on. Sales of Diplomático range has been tripled in India since it first became available in India three years ago. The rums are currently available in Mumbai, Pune, Goa, Bengaluru, Delhi, and Gurugram.

The Diplomático Reserva Exclusiva is the flagship product under the Diplomatico umbrella. They are made mainly from sugarcane honey with rum blends that are aged for up to 12 years under the hot Venezuelan sun. The ageing results in the loss of nearly 60 per cent of the spirit due to evaporation. What is left is a luxury sipping rum with aromas of orange peel, toffee, and liquorice. The taste is complex and well-balanced, with notes of wood and vanilla, with a seductive long-lasting finish.

INDIA IS THE ONLY COUNTRY IN ASIA WHERE THE ENTIRE DIPLOMÁTICO RANGE WILL BE AVAILABLE. THE RUMS ARE SEGREGATED IN THREE DIFFERENT CATEGORIES.

THE TRADITION RANGE

Planas, Mantuano & the Reserva Exclusiva

These rums are made using a unique method that combines three unique methods of distillation, and with the Maestro Ronero’s experience and expertise in blending. These are versatile and characterful rums that can be sipped on their own, or as cocktails.

THE DISTILLERY COLLECTION

This special edition showcases Diplomático’s alternative distillation processes that give each rum their individual personality. There are three expressions: Single Batch Kettle rum, Single Barbet Column rum, and Single Copper Pot Still rum.

THE PRESTIGE RANGE

Ambassador and Single Vintage

Crafted from exclusive reserves and produced in limited quantities, these exquisite rums are meant for the most demanding palates.