Caribbean Rum Range Launches in Barbados

The Caribbean Rum Collection has been launched in Grantly Adams International Airport, Barbados, showcasing a range of more than 80 different rums.

The store features a Mount Gay sampling bar manned by staff trained to lead customers through tasting sessions

Implemented by travel retail company ARI, the concept store can be found in Runway Duty Free, and is dedicated to the “Caribbean tradition in rum making”, with a “heavy focus” on the age and heritage aspects of the rums available.

Included in the range are a series of premium listings from several small Island brands connected to the WIRSPA – the West Indian Rum and Spirit Producers Association.

Gerry Crawford ARI chief operations officer said: “Although malt whiskies and Cognacs have been long recognized for their excellent qualities, rum has been somewhat overlooked internationally despite its rich heritage and well established quality and craftsmanship.

“I’m confident that Caribbean Rum Collection will help change this perception by educating customers and promoting more niche rum brands.”

The store features a Mount Gay sampling bar manned by staff trained to lead customers through tasting sessions, and an interactive glossary of the various rums on offer with tasting notes and cocktail recipes on in-store iPads.

Patrick Molloy, general manager Runway Duty Free added: “Since arriving in Barbados I’ve been fascinated by the history of rum, from its origins on the cane fields to its present day global popularity. Rum is the perfect souvenir from a memorable trip to Barbados and Runway Duty Free is the one of the last stops to purchase rum before leaving.”
Earlier this month, the Rémy Cointreau-controlled Mount Gay Distilleries acquired the historic Mount Gay plantation for the development of a “terroir” rum.

Source: The Spirit Business