Zacapa: the high-altitude Guatemalan rum that became a legend

An exceptional rum from the heights of Guatemala

At the heart of Central America, Ron Zacapa embodies the excellence of premium Guatemalan rum. Born more than 2,300 meters above sea level in the mountains of Quetzaltenango, this unique spirit owes its distinctive profile to both an extraordinary terroir and a rare ageing method.

Unlike industrial rums produced from molasses, Zacapa is crafted from “virgin sugarcane honey,” a concentrated juice obtained from the very first pressing of sugarcane. This noble raw material, combined with the cool mountain climate and slow fermentation, creates rich, rounded and complex aromas from the very start of production.

Mastered ageing through the Solera method

The aromatic signature of Zacapa comes from its high-altitude maturation using the Solera system, inspired by sherry production. The principle is to marry rums of different ages, from 6 to 25 years, in a succession of casks that once contained bourbon, sherry, Pedro Ximénez wine or cognac.

This slow and evolving process is what gives Ron Zacapa 23 its silky texture and flavors of caramel, cocoa, vanilla, dried fruit and gentle spices. Ageing at altitude slows evaporation and encourages a smoother maturation, achieving a remarkable balance between strength and finesse.

An iconic rum, ambassador of premium Latin American spirits

As a true standard-bearer for Latin American rums, Zacapa appeals both to seasoned connoisseurs and to curious newcomers looking for a refined, elegant and smooth experience. With bottles wrapped in handwoven palm leaves (the Mayan petate), the brand also expresses the craftsmanship and heritage of Guatemala at its finest.

The range includes references that have become essentials:

• Zacapa 23 Sistema Solera: the emblematic expression, smooth and indulgent
  
  

• Zacapa Edición Negra: more intense, aged in heavily charred casks, with woody and chocolatey notes
  
  

• Zacapa XO: the prestige edition, aged up to 25 years with a cognac cask finish, rare and elegant
  
  

Why choose Ron Zacapa? A complex, smooth and elegant rum

Zacapa is more than a rum, it is a sensory journey. Its natural sweetness, aromatic depth and controlled complexity make it ideal for sipping neat at the end of a meal, or pairing with dark chocolate, a cigar or fine desserts.

It is also an excellent introduction to the world of aged rums, alongside houses such as Diplomatico, Plantation, Santa Teresa or Don Papa, while offering a smoother and more elegant alternative to some drier agricoles like Clément or La Favorite.

And for enthusiasts of whiskys and whiskies, Zacapa provides a fascinating contrast to the woody richness of Scotch single malts or the rounder sweetness of Irish whiskey.

Zacapa: a rum of character or a prestigious gift

Balancing refinement, accessibility and depth, Ron Zacapa speaks as much to passionate rum drinkers as to collectors building their cellar. It is also frequently chosen as a premium gift, thanks to its elegance, heritage and growing worldwide reputation in the world of fine spirits.

The Whisky Lodge: your expert in exceptional rums

At The Whisky Lodge, we have selected the finest Zacapa references to reflect the full richness of this Guatemalan rum. You will also discover complementary alternatives such as Diplomatico Reserva Exclusiva, Don Papa 10 Years, Mount Gay XO, or related fine spirits such as Armagnac, Cognac, or Japanese whiskies for those who enjoy complex aromas.