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Ron Viejo de Caldas | The Story of Colombia’s Award Winning Rum

Ron Viejo de Caldas | The Story of Colombia’s Award Winning Rum

Travel, Gastronomy, Manizales, Restaurants - Cafes

Every so often, a story emerges that deserves to be told. One of Manizales’ best-kept secrets and must-visit attractionsis Ron Viejo de Caldas. Get ready to immerse yourself in a flavorful journey, where tradition meets craftsmanship—ending with a smooth, unforgettable finish!

Ron Viejo de Caldas

Founded in 1928 by a perfume maker from Barcelona, Spain, Ron Viejo de Caldas has a history as rich as its flavor. In its early years, the company briefly introduced a rum-scented cologne, but the idea didn’t quite take off—perhaps because “Saturday night” wasn’t the preferred scent for most women.

Today, Ron Viejo de Caldas is owned by the Caldas Department Government, employing around 120 local workers. The governor oversees its manufacturing, export strategy, and fund distribution, ensuring its legacy continues to thrive.

Award-Winning Excellence

The brand’s 8-Year-Aged Rum holds a one-of-a-kind Diamond Award in the World Championship. After securing the Gold Award for taste seven years in a row, Ron Viejo de Caldas achieved an unmatched level of recognition—proving its exceptional craftsmanship and superior quality.

Ron Viejo – The Experience!

More than just a tour, Experiencia Ron Viejo de Caldas is an immersive dive into the rich heritage of Colombian rum. Visitors can explore rare relics from the brand’s distillation history, including the first-ever distiller used in Pereira. This one-of-a-kind attraction showcases the craftsmanship and tradition behind one of Colombia’s most iconic rums.

Location: C.C. Mall Plaza, Local #2041 (upper floor) – Av. Kevin Angel – Manizales, Colombia

Hours of Operation: Sun – Thur 2 PM – 8 PM, Fri/Sat 2 PM – 1 AM

For an unforgettable experience, be sure to book the Rum Tour with Giancarlo, the head bartender. Fluent in English, he expertly guides visitors through the history of Ron Viejo de Caldas, the rum-making process, and an interactive tasting session. With engaging visuals and expert insights, this tour is a must for rum enthusiasts and curious travelers alike!

Our Friend Giancarlo Hincapié

Giancarlo Hincapié works to create the perfect cocktail while educating visitors about the legacy of Ron Viejo de Caldas!

This story came about due to

Giancarlo Hincapié is an award-winning bartender from the Coffee Axis who has earned recognition on both the national and international stage. As the head of rum elaboration and cocktail curation at Experiencia Ron Viejo de Caldas, he crafts innovative rum cocktails at one of Colombia’s only Tiki bars.

Accomplishments:

  • 2003-2012 – World Championship Competitor, T.G.I. Fridays (New York)
  • 2016 – Ron Viejo de Caldas Champion (Caldas)
  • Annual Organizer – Ron Viejo de Caldas Championship
  • FounderRed de Bartenders – Eje Cafetero Chapter
  • Official Delegate – Bartending Association of the Coffee Axis

A passionate advocate for Tiki culture and rum, Giancarlo blends Colombia’s finest rum with Polynesian cocktail traditions. Interestingly, Polynesian culture traces its roots back to South American pioneers who sailed west from Peru, making Tiki cocktails a perfect fusion of local heritage and international mixology.

📩 Want to learn from Giancarlo? Join his Bartending Master Class!
📲 Contact him via:

 

Special Events!

Dive into the Experiencia Ron Viejo de Caldas at their next big event!

About the author

Coffee Axis Adventures and Expat Lifestyles meet Wit and Wordpress! I have been writing my whole life in one form or another, and blogging since 2012. My career as a professional writer began in 2013 and this is what I have been doing ever since! My personal mission: Create love and appreciation for local brands, products and entrepreneurial projects of value and quality. Do my part to participate in and help create, a strong local economy that supports local people and their families!

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