From crafting Sherry and Brandy in Santiago de Cuba to becoming one of the pioneers of Solera system rum production in that country, Pablo Nonell was a Spanish immigrant who took his passion to new horizons –exceptionally symbolized by his brand’s icon: the swallow.
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Born in 1834 in Lloret de Mar, a Catalan municipality on the Costa Brava, Pablo Nonell’s traveling soul led him to seek new horizons. He settled in the city of Santiago, Cuba, where, as a true Spaniard, he established a business producing Sherry and Brandy. This background allowed him to develop a vision for producing rum using the Solera system, creating Matusalem –the spirit that would mark a turning point in the history of the beverage.
Over time, the company passed into the hands of his nephews, Enrique and Benjamín Camp, and subsequently, the Álvarez family led the partnership. During Prohibition in the United States (1920–1933) and the following decade, the tourism boom in Cuba allowed Ron Matusalem to experience one of its finest eras, gaining international fame.
Unfortunately, by the mid-20th century, political changes interrupted the company’s activities in Cuba. Following the passing of the firm’s key figures, their descendants moved to Miami. The families attempted to reactivate production in the United States, but without success.
Finally, after overcoming legal disputes among the brand’s heirs during the last decade of the 20th century, they managed to bring Ron Matusalem back to the market by establishing themselves in the Dominican Republic. The brand preserves the family recipe passed down through generations for over 150 years, and the creation of its various labels has remained faithful to its origins.
Matusalem, Gran Reserva 18
Aged using the Solera system with rums matured for up to 18 years in French oak barrels. To the eye, it is a mahogany-colored liquid with golden tones against the light. On the nose, notes of vanilla and caramel emerge. On the palate, it is complex and intense, with hints of vanilla, coffee, and butterscotch. We find a rum with personality at the finish; while not overly complex, it is very pleasant on the palate. Ideal for sharing amidst “good smoke.”
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Photos: facebook.com/matusalemmx
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