Dominican rum is undoubtedly one of the things worth trying when visiting the Dominican Republic. Anyone who has had the opportunity to be in this country knows perfectly well that it tastes completely different while lying among palm trees on a Caribbean beach. I, too, have just started recalling the sweet taste that gently stimulates our senses, making the music sound better and better, and the regular sound of the sea allowing for complete relaxation.
Rums from the Dominican Republic boast over 500 years of history. The first information regarding its production dates back to 1493. Like any other rum, it is made from sugar cane. Interestingly, 90% of the rum produced in the Dominican Republic is consumed by the local population, with only 10% being exported.
The most popular brands in the Dominican Republic are the rums from the Brugal and Barcelo families. Connoisseurs of this beverage claim that it is rich and full-bodied, yet delicate in taste. The predominant characteristic flavor notes are caramel and nut.
To promote Dominican rum worldwide and oversee its production, a special Association of Rum Producers (Asociación Dominicana de Productores de Ron ADOPRON) was established. The main companies involved are Brugal, Barcelo, Vincola del Norte, Yazoo, and Isidro Bordas. Thanks to their efforts, Dominican rum has been formalized, receiving an official characteristic profile of aroma, taste, and color, which attests to its authenticity. Interestingly, the member companies of the Dominican Association of Rum Producers collectively store over 300,000 barrels of this beverage.
The Dominican Republic exports rum to over 80 countries. It is recognized as one of the best in the world. Companies producing in the Dominican Republic create over 4,000 direct jobs and contribute approximately $200,000 annually to the state treasury. According to statistics, in 2014, rum exports exceeded $80 million, while in 2021, they reached $112 million. The largest recipient of Dominican rum is Spain, purchasing approximately 40% of the exported rum.
Which rum is best to bring from the Dominican Republic? Personally, I would recommend looking at the higher shelf and purchasing the popular Brugal “Leyenda” or “Imperial“. This costs around 1000 DOP, which is 80 PLN. It is worth “investing” this sum, as the same rum in Poland can cost from 300 PLN upwards. Remember that, by law, you can bring 1L of strong alcohol or two 0.7L bottles into Poland. Where to buy rum in the Dominican Republic? Simply at the supermarket, as it will be cheaper than at a street colmado.
PS. Interestingly, the government of President Luis Abinader recently raised the minimum wage for the so-called “macheteros“, who received a daily increase from 200 DOP to 400 DOP, which is currently equal to 31.50 PLN.
PSS. In the Dominican Republic, “mamajuana” is also consumed, which is produced with a rum base. It is attributed with medicinal properties and aphrodisiac-like effects. It is made by soaking pieces of bark and roots in a mixture of rum, red wine, and honey.
