PHILADELPHIA, PA — Sofia Deleon, the restauranteur behind the popular Central American street food concept El Merkury, has announced the launch of a new venture, Tenango Rum. Inspired by her great-grandmother’s tradition of distilling Cusha, a traditional Guatemalan moonshine, Deleon has crafted a unique rum that exudes the culture and flavors of Guatemala.
Tenango Rum is a 100% single-source Guatemalan rum made from Grade A molasses and aged in second-use American White Oak barrels. Distilled in the traditional Spanish style method on a column still, the rum takes on significant characteristics from the barrel, resulting in a flavorful spirit that is additive-free.
“I founded the brand with the mission to reshape the world’s perception of rum and create a lasting impact on the lives of Guatemalan women and their families,” said Deleon. “By honoring the traditions of our ancestors, we can redefine the rum landscape.”
The rum, authentically made in a Guatemalan distillery, is a testament to family, entrepreneurial spirit, and cultural celebration. The launch aims to empower Guatemalan communities through employment opportunities for women and craftspeople, who hand-make the vibrant covers that adorn each bottle. Each traditional Mayan sheath is woven on a traditional foot loom by a Guatemalan Kik’che’ Women’s co-op, with $2 from every bottle sold going to the co-op’s trade workers.
As a single source rum, all ingredients of Tenango are sourced from Guatemala, including the sugar cane. The fermentation, bottling, and aging processes all take place within the country, ensuring a high-quality rum with no mystery additives or colorings.
Tenango Rum offers a complex flavor profile, featuring rich notes of cocoa, banana, coffee, almond, and tropical fruits. These flavors are complemented by the whiskey notes of butterscotch and caramel imparted by the second use barrel. This makes Tenango a perfect choice for whiskey lovers and can be enjoyed neat, over ice, or in classic and nouveau cocktails.
Tenango Rum is currently available for online purchase nationwide and at select retailers. It is also served in craft cocktails at several top Philadelphia bars, including Bolo, Royal Boucherie, Martha, and R&D. With its launch, Tenango Rum is set to redefine perceptions of rum while supporting Guatemalan communities and preserving cultural heritage.
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