Botucal – Rum and Cigars

The Ron Botucal brand might be familiar to some under the name Ron Diplomatico. That is the brand’s name abroad, and it was also used in Germany until a legal issue arose in 2012.

Ron Botucal vs. Ron Diplomatico: Which Rum Will It Be?

There is, in fact, a cognac sold at Aldi under the same name—you read that correctly! Nothing against the discount store’s brandy, but Ron Botucal plays in a different league altogether. Not to mention that a sugarcane distillate is not a grape-based spirit. Thus, it was decided to market the rum in Germany under the name of the distillery—Botucal.

Other than the label, nothing has changed: Ron Botucal still stands for a first-class spirit and remains one of the few that have successfully preserved the tradition of Venezuelan rum production. The unique climate and geography, combined with the master distillers’ expertise, produce refined and exceptional rums. After distillation in copper pot stills, Botucal matures into a highly complex spirit in former bourbon and Scotch barrels.

Rum from Botucal: The Full Range

The most famous rum from the house is undoubtedly the Reserva Exclusiva. This 12-year-old rum captivates with its spice and depth, earning it over 20 medals to date. But the most prestigious representative is also worth trying. The Ambassador Selection is a blend of heavier rums that have fully developed their character through additional aging in former sherry casks.

If you are still undecided (or prefer variety), the Botucal Tasting Sets make an ideal gift and offer the opportunity to explore exclusive rums from other brands such as Remedy, Dos Maderas, and Ron Centenario.

Botucal Mantuano Rum – Recipe for "Rum Old Fashioned"

The Botucal Mantuano is a versatile, up to eight-year-old premium rum from Venezuela. It features a rich aroma profile with notes of dried fruits, vanilla, and spices. Its character is smooth, full-bodied, and lightly spiced—perfect for classic cocktails. Aging in former bourbon and malt whisky casks ensures a pleasant depth and complexity.

Rum Old Fashioned (Ingredients)

• 6 cl Botucal Mantuano Rum
• 1 cl sugar syrup
• 2 dashes of bitters
• Orange zest (for garnish)

Stir all ingredients with ice in a tumbler and garnish with orange zest. The Rum Old Fashioned beautifully highlights the rum’s spicy elegance.

Botucal Planas Rum – Recipe for "Daiquiri"

The Botucal Planas is a clear-filtered rum aged up to six years, featuring fresh citrus notes, coconut, and a fine creaminess. It offers significantly more character than many other white rums and is ideal for elegant cocktails. The Planas impresses with its smooth texture and tropical freshness—perfect for those seeking an aromatic white rum!

Daiquiri (Ingredients)

• 6 cl Botucal Planas Rum
• 3 cl lime juice
• 2 cl sugar syrup

Shake the Daiquiri vigorously with ice, strain into a coupe glass, and garnish with a lime slice. This cocktail brings out the fresh qualities of the Planas perfectly.

Botucal Cigars: Perfect Pairing for Venezuelan Rum

The Botucal Cigars have been produced since 2006 by Mombacho in Granada, Nicaragua, and are known for their harmonious quality. To mark their 15th anniversary, a special cigar series was developed in collaboration with Diplomatico (Botucal) Rum. The blend features a Sungrown wrapper from Ecuador, a Jalapa binder from Nicaragua, and a filler made from Nicaraguan tobaccos (Jalapa, Estelí, Condega).