SPIRIT OF GALLO RE-ENTERS THE SUPER PREMIUM+ RUM CATEGORY WITH RON DEL BARRILITO, PUERTO RICO’S OLDEST RUM

MODESTO, CA – JULY 8, 2024 – Spirit of Gallo is expanding its luxury spirits portfolio with a strategic investment in Ron del Barrilito, Puerto Rico’s oldest rum, first created in 1880. Under the agreement, Gallo will also become the exclusive U.S. importer.

This represents Spirit of Gallo’s return to rum, the 4th largest category in spirits. Within rum, the Super Premium and Ultra-premium price segments have been the key growth drivers over the last number of years and are projected to grow at 8% CAGR by 2027.*

Ron del Barrilito rums are defined by their unique artisanal process that’s remained unchanged since 1880, hand-crafted in small batches using a unique, all-natural maceration process. Each batch is blended to match the taste, aroma, and depth of the original formula. The rums are then aged 100% start to finish in certified “Oloroso” sherry white oak barrels for 3 to 35 years to yield full-bodied and smooth rums. Nothing is added post-aging – no sugar, no caramel coloring, and no artificial ingredients.

The brand was purchased in 2017 by Joaquin Bacardi and a local group of investors. Joaquin Bacardi, a familiar name in rum, is committed to using the same formulas and processes that have been passed down over several generations of Fernández family master blenders, enabling consistency over time. Also, the visitors center in Puerto Rico receives over 40,000 visitors per year.

“With an incredible legacy, Ron del Barrilito rum is poised to capitalize on the growth in the Super Premium+ Rum category,” said Britt West, Executive Vice President and General Manager, Spirit of Gallo. “To win in rum, we know it needs to be Super Premium+. Ron del Barrilito has a strong heritage story, existing affinity amongst the trade, and robust quality statements that make it a valuable addition to our portfolio. We look forward to working with the team to help Ron del Barrilito reach its full potential here in the U.S.”

As Puerto Rico’s oldest rum, and a brand rooted in family and community, Ron del Barrilito is adored in the local community. “Gallo is founded in the same family values that Ron del Barrilito prides itself on,” said President of Ron del Barrilito, Joaquin Bacardi. “We are excited to work with such a dominant force in the spirits industry that has represented iconic brands for generations. As we enter this next chapter of our history together, we look forward to honoring both brands’ rich heritages, while continuing to create premium experiences for our consumers.

Available in four expressions, the Ron del Barrilito portfolio is led by the flagship 3 Stars product, a medium-body rum blend with a natural dark reddish color aged between 6 and 10 years. 3 Stars is a smooth sipping rum that can be enjoyed neat or on the rocks and has a cult following amongst mixologists for its quality and craft cocktail versatility, including an outstanding substitute for an Old Fashioned. The product features aromas of almonds, vanilla, raisins, and bananas with a strong woody backbone. It has a smooth and fruity sweetness with a lingering smoky finish. (43% ABV, SRP, $39.99)

Terms of the agreement were not disclosed.

*Source: IWSR 2023 Case volumes: 000's of 9-litre cases

About Spirit of Gallo

Spirit of Gallo is the third largest spirits supplier in the United States by volume and represents some of the most iconic brands in the industry including: High Noon Hard Seltzer, New Amsterdam Vodka, E&J Brandy, RumChata, Camarena Tequila, RumHaven, Stratusphere Gin, The Dalmore Scotch Whisky, Tequila Komos, Don Fulano Tequila, Horse Soldier Bourbon, Amaro Montenegro and Condesa Gin. The entire portfolio is featured on www.spiritofgallo.com.

About GALLO

Founded in 1933 by brothers Ernest and Julio Gallo, GALLO is a family-owned company and global leader in wine, spirits, malt beverages, and RTDs. With a goal of serving joy in moments that matter, GALLO is deeply committed to sustainability and providing the highest quality products for every occasion. GALLO’s entire portfolio is featured here: https://www.gallo.com/portfolio/

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