Don Papa Rum launched in UK

The “world’s first single island rum from the Philippines”, Don Papa Rum, has been launched in the UK by spirits company Marblehead.

The Bleeding Heart Rum Company, which produces the rum, has signed a distribution agreement with spirits company covering both the on and off-trade in the UK.

Don Papa Rum, inspired by Papa Isio – one of the leading figures of the Philippine revolution on the island of Negros – was first created in 2012.

The rum is distilled in small batches from sugar cane found on the island of Negros Occidental in the Philippines – known locally as Sugarlandia – and is then aged for seven years in American oak before being blended and bottled.

Don Papa Rum was created by Stephen Carroll, a former Remy Cointreau executive, who now runs the Bleeding Heart Company which produces it.

He said: “I’ve been delighted with the response so far in the markets in which Don Papa has launched including the Philippines, France, Belgium and Italy.

“The UK is a dynamic and growing rum market and we feel the time is right to enter into a partnership with Marblehead and make Don Papa available here.

“Premium rums such as Don Papa have added another dimension to the drinking moment and, based on the number of requests we’ve had in the UK for Don Papa, we’re excited about our brand’s future with Marblehead.”

Emma Wykes, managing director of Marblehead, added: “Don Papa truly brings something special to both established rum drinkers and new explorers to the category.

“The pre- launch interest in the brand has been extremely positive and we look forward to seeing the brand go from strength to strength in the UK.”

Marblehead’s portfolio includes Skipper Rum, Davna Bizon, Czeri and Hani Vodka, AquaRiva Tequila, Berkeley Square London Dry Gin, Opihr Oriental Spiced Gin, Toussaint Coffee Liqueur, Domaine de Canton Ginger Liqueur and Ypióca Cachaça.

Don Papa Rum retails at a recommended price of £ 29.95 for a 70cl 40% abv bottle.