A Statement by Luis Ayala, Author of “The Rum Experience, The Complete Rum Reference”
Throughout the decades many rums have claimed to be “Best in the World.” When looking at these claims, it is important to know which competition they won, which category the rum was entered in, how many rums were in the competition and who the judges were. In most cases, the competitions feature only a dozen or less rums and the judges are “food and beverage” experts, not specific rum experts.
Only one competion has focused solely on rums and nothing other than rums: the International Rum Festival (formely “Rum Fest”) has been taste-testing rums from around the world since 1990. As many as 200 rums are gathered and judged every year by rum experts and rum lovers. These judges come from Europe, North, Central and South America, Asia, and the Caribbean Basin, and are people whose business is to know rum. Winning a top award here means far more than winning anywhere else.
Since it’s introduction in Caribbean Week’s International Rum Festival in 1998, Ron Zacapa Centenario has consistently earned 1st place in the Premium Rum Category. In 2002 it was awarded the Platinum Medal in recognition of its historic achievements. Its unmistakable quality has convinced judges time and time again that Ron Zacapa Centenario is unequivocally the “Best in the World.”
So the next time someone tells you their rum is the best in the world, ask them a few questions. Then tell them about Ron Zacapa Centenario. You can’t be the best unless you’ve beaten the best.
Ron Zacapa Centenario has earned it’s place in the history books as a benchmark for super premiums. First Place Winner in the Premium Rum Category at the 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001 & 2002 Caribbean Week’s Rum Tasting Competition. A personal favorite, don’t pass up the opportunity to try this rum!
Luis K. Ayala (Author/Rum Expert)
The Rum Experience, The Complete Rum Reference
Rum Runner Press Inc.
