Matusalem 15 rum is a delightful spirit that originates from the tropical island of Cuba. However, due to historical circumstances, it is currently produced in the Dominican Republic. This rum has a rich and fascinating journey, starting from its Cuban roots and continuing to be enjoyed worldwide.
The story of Matusalem rum begins in Santiago de Cuba, a city known for its vibrant culture and heritage. It was here that the brand was established in 1872 by the brothers Benjamin and Eduardo Camp, along with their partner Evaristo Alvarez. The name “Matusalem” was inspired by the biblical figure Methuselah, who was said to have lived for 969 years, symbolizing the brand's commitment to aging their rums to perfection.
During its time in Cuba, Matusalem quickly gained popularity and became synonymous with high-quality rum. The rum was crafted using traditional Cuban techniques, which involved aging the spirit in oak barrels for extended periods. This aging process allowed the flavors to develop and mature, resulting in a smooth and complex rum.
However, in the early 1960s, political unrest in Cuba led to the nationalization of the rum industry, and the Camp family was forced to leave the country. They relocated to the Dominican Republic, where they reestablished their brand and continued producing Matusalem rum.
The move to the Dominican Republic did not diminish the quality or reputation of Matusalem rum. The Camp family brought with them their expertise and commitment to excellence, ensuring that the rum continued to be crafted with the same care and attention to detail.
Today, Matusalem 15 is produced at the Matusalem distillery in the Dominican Republic, which is located in the city of Santiago de los Caballeros. This region is known for its ideal climate and fertile soil, which contribute to the production of high-quality sugarcane, the key ingredient in rum production.
The production process of Matusalem 15 involves the careful selection of sugarcane, which is then fermented and distilled to create a flavorful and aromatic spirit. The rum is then aged in a solera system, a unique aging process that involves blending rums of different ages in a series of barrels. This method allows for a consistent and harmonious flavor profile in each bottle of Matusalem rum.
The result is a rum that embodies the essence of Cuban craftsmanship, while also showcasing the influence of the Dominican Republic. Matusalem 15 is renowned for its smoothness, complexity, and notes of vanilla, caramel, and dried fruits. It can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a variety of cocktails, allowing rum enthusiasts to savor the flavors and history of this exceptional spirit.
Matusalem 15 rum has its origins in Cuba but is currently produced in the Dominican Republic. Its Cuban heritage and dedication to quality have remained intact throughout its journey, making it a beloved rum enjoyed by people around the world.