Ron Zacapa

Created in 1976 to celebrate the city of Zacapa’s centennial, Ron Zacapa champions the Art of Slow from Guatemala’s highlands. Each bottle carries a handwoven petate band that honors Mayan heritage, signaling craftsmanship from field to glass. International Rum Festival gold medals and Hall of Fame status underline longstanding quality.

Production is distinctive: instead of molasses, Zacapa uses virgin sugar cane honey, then ages high in Quetzaltenango at around 2,300 meters in the House Above the Clouds. Under Master Blender Lorena Vásquez, a dynamic solera blends spirits from ex‑bourbon, sherry, Pedro Ximénez, and cognac casks for layered maturity. These details are documented by the producer (Industrias Licoreras de Guatemala) and distributor Diageo.

The range spans easy sippers and special‑occasion pours. Start with Ron Zacapa Solera 23 (also known as Ron Zacapa Sistema Solera 23 or Ron Zacapa Centenario 23). Step up to Ron Zacapa 23 Solera single‑origin variations, the elegant Ron Zacapa XO Rum and Ron Zacapa Centenario XO, the darker‑tinged Ron Zacapa Edicion Negra, or the top‑end Ron Zacapa Royal and Ron Zacapa Solera Gran Reserva.

Expect aromas of caramel, vanilla, toffee, raisin and fig, with orange peel, banana, cocoa, coffee, and polished oak; Edicion Negra adds a toasted, smoky edge. The palate is typically silky and rounded, delivering chocolate, brown sugar, dried fruits, gentle spice, and a warm finish—a High-quality rum profile celebrated by many RumX members.

How should you enjoy it? Sip neat in a tulip glass, or over a large cube; it also excels in a spirit‑forward Old Fashioned. Pair with 70 percent dark chocolate, roasted nuts, blue cheese, flan, or apple pie. Which bottle should you start with? Ron Zacapa 23 Solera is a versatile entry. Wondering about Zacapa Rum price? It varies by market and release—use RumX to track offers, compare authentic reviews, and build your wishlist.