in the southeastern city of San Pedro de Macoris, where it is stored in large tanks and diluted with water. Once the molasses have fermented, the resulting "wine" is vacuum-distilled and the alcohol that is produced is taken to the plant for aging in the oak barrels for at least the year required by Dominican law. Eventual duration of the aging will depend on the type of rum being produced.

Brugal's production vice-president, Fernando Ortega Brugal, describes the process as one where a chemical course of oxidation occurs over the years. The alcohol thus acquires the characteristic color, taste and bouquet that hints at wood, or tannin, and becomes slightly fruity.

Tourists in Puerto Plata can observe the rums progress at this point and tours are offered several times a day at the largest traditional rum factory in the country. Visitors will see for themselves that many of the steps in production continue to be performed by hand - such as the placing of the characteristic yellow netting on each of the bottles. Towards the end of the tour, tourists view the bottle production line and are treated to a daiquiri tasting and the opportunity to purchase the finest Dominican rums at the best prices. The Brugal tour has become one of the highlights of any trip to Puerto Plata, and on a normal day as many as 500 tourists may pass through the factory's gates.

Types of rum

Brugal is a pioneer among Dominican rum makers. After introducing its dark rum to the market in 1888, Brugal sought to upgrade the quality of its products and in 1920 built the first warehouses for aging its Carta Dorada and Blanco (gold and white label) rums. In 1952, it developed its aged rum segment with the launch of Brugal Anejo. In 1976, it developed the first Dominican premium rum, Brugal Extra Viejo.

Continuing in the pursuit of innovation and excellence, Brugal developed the super premium market segment in 1988 to commemorate its first centennial by introducing its exclusive Siglo de Oro rum (which has been compared to fine cognac), packaged in a ceramic bottle that is a work of art in its own right In 1998, it launched Brugal Limon, a novelty in the Dominican market that caters to the young adult consumer market.

Prize winning

The high standards of Brugal have been recognized abroad, with awards earned from the Institute of Quality of Brussels, the San Francisco Spirits Competition and the industry's Impact Magazine, all in tribute to the quality of this Caribbean taste.