Cuban rum Eminente makes UK debut

Moët Hennessy has unveiled a new Cuban rum, called Eminente, created by the island’s youngest maestro ronero (master rum distiller).

Eminente Reserva was curated by César Martí, who earned the title of maestro ronero in just nine years after being mentored by José Navarro Campa. The rum is a blend of aguardientes, which are eaux-de-vies made from molasses distilled to 75% ABV. These were then aged in white oak barrels that previously held whisky. The liquid was then blended and aged again with light Cuban rum distilled to 96% ABV. The blend of aged aguardientes and light rums creates Cuban rum. Eminente Reserva was matured for a minimum of seven years and is classified as ‘Denominación de Origen Protegida’ (DOP Ron de Cuba). The status is given by the Regulatory Council: the DOP Ron de Cuba. Bottled at 41.3% ABV, Eminente Reserve is priced at RRP £47 (US$65) per 700ml bottle. Max Helm, brand ambassador and market manager, said: “We are delighted to see Eminente officially launched in the UK, particularly at a time when the rum category is increasingly dynamic and diverse. “We believe Eminente’s story, the Cuban heritage and the delicious liquid in the bottle are an energising addition to this exciting spirit category and that it will bring a fresh perspective to Cuban rum, from how and where it is made, to how it can be served and enjoyed.” The bottle design aims to celebrate Cuba’s culture and heritage. The textured glass bottle and crocodile-shaped island depicted on the label are a nod to the country’s native animal. A second label on the side of the bottle has been designed to replicate a travel ticket, and tells the story of the brand in the words of Martí. Eminente Reserva is recommended to be enjoyed neat, over ice or mixed in cocktails.