The crown jewel of Panamanian spirits features a luxurious blend of up to 30 year old aged rum, presented in a first-class package to celebrate the company's first century of success.
Ron Abuelo Centuria Reserva de la Familia from Varela Hermanos is produced in the Panamanian countryside, amidst the local sugar cane fields as their spirits have been for more than a century.
The dark mahogany color and rich viscosity suggest long aging in a solera system of white oak barrels, imparting aromas of caramel and smoky wood, vanilla and sherry. Initial flavors of butterscotch and warm wood lead to a complex and well rounded palate of molasses, dry fruits, vanilla, leather and spices. The finish is very long lingering, semi-dry and peppered with oak.
This blend is derived from the oldest barrels and finest stock in the aging warehouses at Varela Hermanos. This family reserve was released in very limited quantities in December, 2010, first shown to the U.S. at the annual Miami Rum Renaissance Festival in April, 2011. With a mere 200 cases imported into the U.S., the product became an instant collector's item among rum connoisseurs.
The company produces the very popular Seco Herrerano sugar cane spirit, created directly from fresh can juice during the dry season when the cane is being harvested. Seco is distilled to a very high proof, producing a very clean, light and accessible spirit designed to be enjoyed with fruit juices, cola, coconut water, mixers and many other popular drinks. It's the most common spirit in the country of Panama.
Varelas Hermanos also produces a line of accessible rums under the label of Ron Cortez.
Robert A. Burr
National Rum Examiner
Publisher of Robert Burr's Gifted Rums Guide
Host of Miami Rum Renaisance Festival
Organizer of International Rum Expert Panel
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