Discover the Art of World-Class Rum in the Dominican Republic

Rum is a way of life in the Dominican Republic.

Whether you're looking to retrace the spirit's origins in the Caribbean or simply sit back and sip on some of the world's finest rum, you can't go wrong with a stay at Barcelo Bavaro Grand Resort, Occidental Punta Cana or Occidental Caribe.

After all, August is National Rum Month and there's never been a better time to learn all about the Caribbean spirit that was once dismissed as "a hot, hellish and terrible liquor."

Dating back to the early 17th century, rum has been called many other things as well, including Nelson’s blood, kill-devil, demon water, pirate’s drink and grog.

It also comes in different colors. Naturally clear like all distilled spirits, rum's final hue depends on how much time it spends aging in oak barrels, which can add smoothness as well as flavors like caramel, vanilla and spice.

Rum goes way back in the Dominican Republic. The original Dominican Republic rum distillery, Bermudez, was founded in 1852 and Brugal Anejo is the best-selling rum in the entire Caribbean.

Visitors will also want to get their hands on Ron Barcelo Rum Imperial, a rum featuring a bright amber color and notes of vanilla, pineapple and caramelized walnuts.

If you prefer a mixed rum drink, there's always the popular Mai Tai or mojito. Better yet, order a Mamajuana, which combines rum, red wine and honey in a bottle with tree bark and herbs.

The Dominican Republic takes its rum seriously. Rules and regulations govern that the country's rum producers must harvest the sugar cane, ferment, distill and age the alcohol in oak barrels for a minimum of one year within the country's borders. It all makes for a special final product.

For more information on Barcelo Hotels, check out their blog page here.