Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/205467
THE PERFECTIONISTS Brandon Lieb and Aleco Azqueta: Atlantico Rum PHOTOS COURTESY OF ATLANTICO RUM "Small-batch Atlantico Rum is special because it is almost entirely handmade," says co-founder Brandon Lieb. "Consumers and the trade realize how much care and attention has gone into every bottle. For us, it's truly an amazing experience to see how people react to Atlantico when they try it for the first time." Made in the Dominican Republic, Atlantico Reserva is a blend of rums distilled from molasses as well as fresh cane juice, all of which are aged in charred American white oak barrels for up to five years. Afterwards, the rums are taken off the wood and Atlantico co-founders Brandon Lieb finished in the distillery's solera. By the time it is (left) and Aleco Azqueta. bottled, the blend has aged up to 15 years. Atlantico co-founder Aleco Azqueta finds few things more rewarding than hearing from people who have fallen in love with the brand. "We felt like there was a real opportunity to re-introduce people to rum. When people go out of their way to tell us how much they like Atlantico, it not only validates what we are doing but also gets us excited to face whatever challenges that lie ahead." ATLANTIC IMPORTING COMPANY PHOTO COURTESY OF SERRALLÉS USA Roberto Serrallés: Don Q Puerto Rican Rum Should you be fortunate enough to spend some sun-filled days in Puerto Rico, one of the things you'll bring back is an enduring passion for Don Q Rum. The brand is the bestselling rum on the island and its likeness can be found almost everywhere. Don Q is very much a product of its homeland and the island's vibrant character is deeply imbued in its native spirit. Family-owned and -operated Distilleria Serrallés is one of the storied rum distilleries of the Caribbean. It was founded in 1865 by Don Juan Serrallés at the Hacienda Mercedita sugar plantation outside the city of Ponce, on the island's southern coast. The brand—Don Q—was created 70 years later, in 1935. The man now in charge of business development is Roberto Serrallés, who has inherited the legacy of this legendary rum. "I grew up at this distillery, so working here is more than a job, it's a lifelong mission. My family and I are proud of what we've accomplished and gratified that Don Q is growing in popularity in the States. I'll work hard to keep the brand flourishing and the rum pristine." PHOTO: BRIAN HUFF THE INHERITOR SERRALLÉS USA 108 / the tasting panel / november 2013 TP1113_066-107.indd 108 10/24/13 9:25 AM