Ron Abuelo rum is owned by the Varela family, a family-owned company that has been producing rum since 1936. The company was founded by Don José Varela Blanco, who was encouraged by his three sons to start distilling rum. This family ownership has continued through the generations, with the business now being supervised by Luis J. Varela Jr., the third-generation of the family.
What sets Ron Abuelo apart from other rum producers is their commitment to using only sugar cane that is grown and hand-harvested on their own property. This ensures that they have complete control over the quality of the sugar cane used in their rum production process. By growing their own sugar cane, they can carefully select the best plants and ensure that they are harvested at the optimal time for maximum flavor and sweetness.
I had the opportunity to visit the Ron Abuelo distillery during a trip to Panama, and it was truly an impressive operation. The vast fields of sugar cane stretched out as far as the eye could see, and the care and attention that went into tending to the crops were evident. The workers were passionate about their craft and took pride in the fact that they were contributing to the production of such high-quality rum.
One of the things that struck me about the Varela family was their dedication to preserving traditional rum-making techniques while also embracing innovation. They have invested in modern equipment and technology to ensure consistency and efficiency in their production process, but they also understand the importance of maintaining the time-honored methods that have been passed down through the generations.
The Varela family's commitment to quality is evident in every bottle of Ron Abuelo rum. Each batch is carefully crafted and aged to perfection, resulting in a rum that is smooth, complex, and full of flavor. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail, Ron Abuelo rum is a testament to the passion and expertise of the Varela family.
Ron Abuelo rum is owned by the Varela family, who have been producing rum since 1936. Their commitment to using only sugar cane grown on their own property sets them apart from other rum producers. With a dedication to preserving traditional rum-making techniques while embracing innovation, the Varela family has created a rum that is truly exceptional.