The Edrington Group’s premium Brugal 1888 rum has won a Gold Medal in the inaugural Cathay Pacific Hong Kong International Wine & Spirit Competition just months after its launch in Asian markets.
The competition, said to be the first of its kind in Asia, is run in partnership with the UK-based International Wine & Spirit Competition, which recognises quality in the drinks market.
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Brugal 1888 |
The brand is said to be making “great progress” in Asia, a market traditionally associated with Cognac and whisky drinkers.
Brugal International Brand Manager Irene Serrano said: “Brugal 1888 is being accepted readily in Asian markets and it is proving to be a key to open new doors. This award is the recognition of its high quality and it will help to increase awareness of Brugal within the industry.”
Brugal 1888 was unveiled in Hong Kong and Macau in June 2012 by Master Blender and member of the 5th generation of the Brugal family, Jassil Villanueva. It later featured in a successful tasting promotion at the Tasa Meng retail outlet in terminal 2 at Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport. The promotion, which also offered Brugal Anejo Reserva and Brugal Extra Viejo Reserva, aimed to introduce Brugal 1888 to consumers who might normally choose fine Cognac or malt whisky.
The Edrington Group Regional Marketing Manager Claren Wong commented: “The launch of Brugal in Taiwan duty free has been very successful. The tasting activity encouraged people to try Brugal 1888. The challenge we face in Asia is that the majority of Asian consumers drink whisky or Cognac.
“The rum category is still in its infancy in Asia so education is required to help consumers to understand the category. We will continue the investment in brand activation with education and tasting activity to support the brand growth.”
Brugal 1888 is said to combine the dry style of spirit characteristic of Brugal rum with a proprietary ageing process to produce a smooth, rich and full-bodied rum. A blend of fine 5-14 year old rums, Brugal 1888 is aged in medium-toasted American white oak casks, which have previously been used to age bourbon, and then transferred to first-fill Spanish sherry oak casks. Its colour is described as dark amber, bright and clean; serving suggestion is on its own or with ice.
Tasting Notes
Nose – A scented bouquet with spicy notes, hints of chocolate, roasted coffee beans, cinnamon and dried fruits.
Taste – Described as smooth and full bodied, it offers a dry finish of toffee caramel, wood and liquorice and leaves a sweet dry aftertaste.
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Brugal 1888 tasting promotion at Tasa Meng in Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport T2 | |
