Description
What kind of spirit is this
Zacapa XO by Zacapa is a Guatemalan rum crafted exclusively from the first pressing of sugarcane, known as ‘virgin honey’, and aged using the Solera system. The spirit displays an intense amber colour with golden and ruby reflections. On the palate, it reveals a full-bodied depth defined by a rich interplay of caramel and vanilla, leading into distinct notes of ripe fruit, sweet spices and fine wood. This warm, smooth profile creates an engaging tasting experience, culminating in a persistent finish distinguished by bitter cocoa and a subtle smoky hint. Serving it neat perfectly highlights its structured style and profound aromatic complexity.
Where it comes from
Cultivated in eastern Guatemala, the sugarcane for this rum thrives in nutrient-rich volcanic soils. Following distillation, the spirit is transported to the mountains at an altitude of 2,300 metres above sea level. This elevated setting provides a consistently cool climate, which is crucial for slowing the maturation process. These stable thermal conditions allow the spirit to develop steadily. Such a distinctive geographical influence shapes its balanced character, ensuring the gradual integration of complex fruit and spice notes.
How it is produced
The production process begins with a meticulous five-day fermentation, using a unique pineapple-derived yeast to guarantee a consistent aromatic foundation. Maturation follows the Solera system, which involves carefully blending spirits of various ages through a cascading series of oak barrels. These casks, having previously held robust Bourbon, delicate Sherry and sweet Pedro Ximénez, impart layers of deep flavour. The process concludes with a final refinement in French Cognac barrels, sealing its harmonious profile. This intricate ageing technique adds elegant nuances of toasted almond and fine wood, ensuring a smooth and warm palate with remarkable persistence.
History and Heritage
Crafted in Guatemala since 1976, Zacapa XO is the crown jewel of the Licorera Zacapaneca distillery. Its rich heritage is defined by a five-day fermentation process using pineapple yeast, followed by slow maturation at a cool altitude of 2,300 metres. Here, amidst volcanic peaks, the rum is aged for up to 25 years using the Solera system. Masterfully blended from spirits matured in former bourbon, sherry, and Pedro Ximénez casks, the spirit undergoes a final resting period in French Cognac casks.
Tasting notes
Perfume
Color
Taste
Serve at:
12 - 14 °C
Zacapa Rums are made from pure sugar cane juice, a plant grown on volcanic soils in the southern part of the country.
In the fermentation process, which lasts for 5 days, a powdery extract from a proprietary strain is used to ensure a unique and constant taste over time. The aging process takes place on the plateaus of Quetzaltenango, at an altitude of 2300 meters above sea level, in the so-called "Casa sopra le Nuvole": this place, chosen by the master blender of the cellar Lorena Vasquez, is characterized by a fresh climate which favors a slow aging in white oak barrels, previously used for Bourbon whiskey and Sherry, and handmade by renowned artisans. Zacapa Rums are finally created with the solitary method: assembling vintage barrels and different characteristics makes it possible to obtain excellent quality rum and unmistakable taste. Read more
| Name | Zacapa Ron Centenario XO Gran Reserva Especial Solera 0.7L |
|---|---|
| Type | Rum |
| Size | 0,70 l |
| Alcohol content | 40.0% by volume |
| Country | Guatemala |
| Region | Guatemala |
| Vendor | Zacapa |
| Story | History and Heritage Crafted in Guatemala since 1976, Zacapa XO is the crown jewel of the Licorera Zacapaneca distillery. Its rich heritage is defined by a five-day fermentation process using pineapple yeast, followed by slow maturation at a cool altitude of 2,300 metres. Here, amidst volcanic peaks, the rum is aged for up to 25 years using the Solera system. Masterfully blended from spirits matured in former bourbon, sherry, and Pedro Ximénez casks, the spirit undergoes a final resting period in French Cognac casks. |
| Origin | Eastern Guatemala |
| Climate | Consistently cool climate |
| Soil composition | Volcanic soil |
| Production technique | Agricole rum from pure sugarcane juice, fermented for five days with yeast derived from pineapple, aged using the Solera system in oak casks (ex-bourbon, sherry and Pedro Ximénez) with final maturation in French Cognac casks |
| Aging | Solera ageing system: matured in oak casks previously used for Bourbon, Sherry and Pedro Ximénez, with final maturation in French Cognac casks; aged up to 25 years. |
| Allergens | Contains sulphites |

