At a quintessentially Cuban event in Delhi recently, Pernod Ricard India launched Havana Club 7, a super-premium rum that brings “Cuba in a bottle” to Indian shores. It is a dark rum matured in ex-Bourbon barrels that bring out the rich natural flavours of Cuba in a versatile manner.
Each year, a portion of a new batch of rum is put back into the barrel, to slowly age and mature for several more years, ready to be used in future production. The cyclical process of ageing, maturing and refinement continues, so that Havana Club 7 contains the spirit of that original batch from decades ago.
Crafted for sipping, or to be savoured on the rocks, Havana Club 7 is perfect for delectable aperitifs, especially for those who love to experiment with spirits and have a keen interest in aged spirits, boutique and craft liquor.
Havana Club is a global brand which sells 4.5 million cases annually. It has won 54 awards in 2021, and another 37 awards in the first half of 2022 itself.
The launch at The Art Centre, Mehrauli, saw Cuban creative energy at the forefront, with elements that define Cuban culture, including art, cuisine and music. The rum energised guests with a tasteful amalgamation of aromatic tobacco, sweet tropical fruits, spices and vanilla notes.
The Cuban spirit was further enhanced by the presence of prominent Cuban diplomats, including the Ambassador of Cuba to India, Mr Alejandro Simancas Marín; Deputy Head of Mission, Mr Abel Aballe Despaigne; and Secretary (Press and Culture), Ms Malena Rojas Medina.
“Cuban national identity is associated with the sugarcane tradition, together with its music, dancing and cigars. The Havana Club experience is a great way to discover the flavours of Cuba!” said Mr Marin.
Guests at the event included some of the biggest names from the mixology, hospitality and fashion spaces, including restauranters Priyank Sukhija, Tarun Sibal, Avantica Sinha, Vibhuti Sood and Samrat Mukherjee.
Commenting on the launch, Kartik Mohindra, CMO, Pernod Ricard India, said, “The Indian market has traditionally been dominated by only a few domestic rum brands. With consumers willing to expand their horizons and move beyond traditional spirits, the premium rum category is witnessing the next big wave.”
Havana Club 7 is currently available in Delhi, Maharashtra, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.
