Zacapa Rum, Aged 8,000 Feet Above Sea Level

by Jared Paul Stern (RSS feed)
Sep 18th 2008 at 9:04AM

Here's a new twist on high-end rum, so to speak: Ron Zacapa, a rich tipple hailing from Guatemala's mountainous region that's aged at 8,000 feet above sea level.

At that altitude - roughly the same as Aspen, Colorado - there's not only 25% less oxygen, but a very steady year-round temperature of 62° that facilitates the spirit's maturation in flavorful sherry, bourbon and wine casks.

Made from first-crushed virgin sugarcane grown in the country's fertile volcanic soil, rums of between 6 and 23 years go into the final Zacapa blend. Its heritage goes back to the mash of corn and wild fruits the Mayans and Aztecs made into hooch for their religious rites 2,000 years ago.

This is definitely a rum meant for sipping, not mixing, for full enjoyment of its deep, rich flavors. We're also fond of the natty band of woven straw around its midriff, like a sort of vestigial Panama hat.

Tags: Aztecs, Guatemala, Ron Zacapa, RonZacapa, Rum, Zacapa