Havana Club 1519: An emblematic special edition Cuban rum

The launch this week of a luxurious and very expensive Cuban rum under the brand 'Havana Club 1519' is today eagerly awaited by those attending the 37th Havana International Fair (FIHAV 2019).

The National Director of sales and marketing at Havana Club International S.A. (HCI), Amed Alvarez, told this journalist that tomorrow night will see the presentation of the 1519 special edition at the Hotel Packard, with a price of 2,800 CUC (roughly the same in US dollars) per bottle.

The value of the product stems from its excellent quality, as well as the fact that this special edition will consist of just 500 bottles, of which 300 will be destined for the international market and 65 will be presented to Cuban personalities attending the celebrations for the 500th anniversary of the founding of Havana on the November 16.

As it is logical to suppose, 1519 responds to the year of foundation of the Villa of San Cristobal de La Habana, the original name of this capital, which today sees an influx of companies, individuals, cultural programs and events to mark the date.

Alvarez explained that this special edition rum is not the only novelty HCI is presenting at FIHAV. Today also saw the launch of another, less expensive but no less luxurious rum (29.90 CUC per bottle), the 'Cuban Smoky.'

This spirit was aged in barrels where Scotch whiskey was kept, giving it a smoky taste, which cigar smokers will appreciate. Both products are intended for connoisseurs, collectors or lovers of the Cuban habano.

Alvarez noted that Havana Club, as a brand, is one of the 25 best marketed in the world, while the company is celebrating a successful 25-year partnership with Pernod Ricard of France.

HCI spirits are marketed in more than 125 countries. Another novelty of the firm is the presentation at FIHAV of different, attractive cocktails made with these rums, from its broad drinks portfolio.

HCI produces and markets the Añejo Blanco, Añejo 3 Years, Añejo Especial, Ron Ritual (the lowest alcoholic graduation at 37.5 degrees), Añejo Reserva, Añejo 7 Years (foundational and best-selling), Seleccion de Maestros and the Gama Iconica: Añejo 15 Años, Union, Tributo and Maximo.

And of course, Cuban Smoky and 1519 are now added to this popular range. The company sells more than two million nine-liters boxes of all varieties per year, with a main market in Cuba, and strong distribution in countries such as Spain and France, along with advances in Canada, Mexico, Germany and Chile, to mention just a few.

Moreover, through its partner Pernod Ricard, HCI sells elite products in Cuba such as Chivas Regal, Ballantine's, Vodkas, Aniseed and Tequilas. But its overwhelming fame stems from its Havana Club rums, a symbol of the Cuban spirits industry.