Cover Zacapa XO and Zacapa No. 23 are rums aged above the misty clouds of Guatemala
Zacapa XO and Zacapa No. 23 are rums aged above the misty clouds of Guatemala
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Zacapa
Crafted high above the clouds in Guatemala, luxury rum brand Zacapa now enchants discerning and worldly palates in the Philippines
An artist creates as a master blender crafts her liquor: with patience, precision and an instinct honed by time. In the highlands of southern Guatemala, such an art is cultivated, celebrated and known by the name of Ron Zacapa Centenario.
This ultra-premium rum sets itself apart from the very first drop—crafted not from molasses but from the first press of virgin sugar cane honey, a rare ingredient that translates to Zacapa’s layered depth, natural sweetness and silky texture. The golden liquid is then fermented using a strain of yeast from pineapples, before it undergoes a process of careful distillation and a time-honoured ageing method called the Solera System, where rums of different ages are blended as they move through a series of specially selected casks.
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Above Local artisans handweave the Petate Band that comes with every bottle
Local artisans handweave the Petate Band that comes with every bottle
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At an altitude of 2,300 metres above sea level, ageing slows down. This allows the liquid to fully absorb the character of each barrel and develop its rich colour, aroma and finish. Visionary Lorena Vásquez, one of the few female master blenders in the world, meticulously oversees this entire process of creation—serving as a guardian to Zacapa’s story. Further reflecting its heritage of quality craftsmanship, every bottle of rum is sealed with the Petate Band, a handwoven emblem that symbolises Mayan tradition, artistry and unity.
Together with the Philippines’ recent reintroduction to Zacapa Rum through Diageo, Manila had the privilege of hosting Vásquez and global brand ambassador Vanessa Leon in an exclusive VIP dinner and experiential mentoring session at the refined Incanta Cave Bar. Complementing the exquisite menu prepared by chef Frances Tariga that evening were tipples made with signature expressions, namely the Zacapa XO and the Zacapa No. 23. The former is a rich and fruity rum aged in French oak barrels that once held cognac, while the latter is an artisanal medley of spices, caramel and dried pineapple. The enchanting flavours of the evening’s fare, upbeat music and the prevailing Guatemalan flair whisked guests away to the very highlands Zacapa’s spirits were made.
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Above Zacapa rum cocktails at the dinner launch
Zacapa rum cocktails at the dinner launch
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The brand’s official local debut unfolded amidst the dramatic interiors of Medusa at The Palace, where the country’s foremost tastemakers and spirit connoisseurs gathered for an unforgettable celebration. It was a night of immersive indulgence—Medusa was transformed into “The House Above The Clouds”, transporting distinguished imbibers to Zacapa’s misty cradle in Quetzaltenango, Guatemala. Expertly crafted rum cocktails flowed freely as vibrant storytelling brought the brand’s heritage to life.
Those still eager for a sip and pour will be pleased to know that the launch merely marks the start of the brand’s journey in Manila. Zacapa is set to make its way around the city, weaving its distinctive blend of craftsmanship and quiet luxury into the fabric of the local bar scene for all discerning Filipinos to enjoy.
Zacapa Rum is available at Medusa, Incanta and across a wide range of leading bars and supermarkets. Zacapa is meant for ages 18 and above. Visit drinkiq.com and drink responsibly.
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Credits
Photography: Zacapa
Trained as a student journalist, Mac’s knack for writing was a serendipitous discovery. Years later and she can’t imagine doing anything else. When she isn’t typing away on a story, she revels in being lost in a new city, revisiting a cosy film or sitcom, and idling away with her dogs.
