On August 20th, I attended a complimentary Brugal Rum event as an introduction to this cask-aged Dominican Republic rum. Hosted by the Renaissance Phoenix Downtown Hotel, cocktail maestro Clint "Spotty" Spotleson kicked off the event with a refreshing Respeto rum punch made with Brugal Extra Dry. Later, we were seated to enjoy tastings of three Brugal rums as we were educated about the distilling process and learned more about these spirits. We sipped and savored the Especial Extra Dry White Rum (triple distilled, smooth, with a hint of spice), Añejo (subtly sweet with notes of oak and vanilla) and the 1888 (rich and complex, aged for 6-8 years in American oak , and finished in Oloroso sherry casks). Delicious snacks were provided - fire-roasted salsa, guacamole, crispy plantains, and pulled pork tacos with red chile - and we ended with a fun daiquiri-making class led by Spotty.

Missed it? More events are planned in the next few months. This is complimentary, open to all rum-lovers, and Brugal Rum extends this invitation: "Please join us for an exclusive tasting and hands-on cocktail experience, where you will learn what sets Brugal apart from ordinary rums. You’ll be led through an intimate tasting of super-premium spirits and as you make (and enjoy) a classic cocktail from one of the best bartenders in the city. We think you’ll walk away with a new found respect, or as we say, respeto, for rum."

While the event is free, space is limited and you must RSVP to this site to reserve your spot. Check back as dates are added.

Schedule:

Counter Intuitive: 10/13 at 6 pm
The Ostrich: 10/23 at 6 pm
Market Street Kitchen: 10/22 at 6 pm
House Brasserie: 10/24 at 11 am
Lon's at the Hermosa Inn: 10/26 at 6 pm
Casablanca Lounge: 11/5 at 6:30 pm

Coming soon: Dates for Crudo and Binkley's.

Brugal Rum Event