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
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
- Founder – Red 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:
- Instagram: @giancarlohm
- WhatsApp: +57 301 577 5857
- Website: Eje Cocktails
Special Events!
Dive into the Experiencia Ron Viejo de Caldas at their next big event!
