Make it memorable with Bacardi

It’s Christmas, it’s time to celebrate, and what better spirit to toast the season with than BACARDÍ rum.

The famous rum — the most awarded in the world — has been at the centre of celebrations since 1862.

Bacardi this year celebrates its 150th anniversary, from its beginnings in Santiago de Cuba in 1862 to its global presence today as the world’s largest privately-held spirits company.

Facundo L. Bacardi, chairman of Bacardi Ltd and the great-great grandson of Bacardi founder, Don Facundo Bacardí Massó, here shares his favourite entertaining tips to make you the ultimate host this holiday season.

Entertaining

“Bacardi has a long history of being at the centre of unforgettable parties, whether informal get-togethers or special occasions,” said Mr Bacardi.

“With our family name on every bottle, it’s intrinsically part of who we are. We take pride in the fact our finely-crafted products distinguish any event.

“I am very proud of my family’s history of helping our consumers create and celebrate events that become truly memorable in the same way our family hosted parties in our home in Cuba where every guest always felt special.”

The exceptional quality and mixability of BACARDÍ make it a sure standout at your celebrations.

Since the 1930s, Bacardi has advertised its signature Superior rum as the ideal cocktail spirit for the Christmas holidays.

“People always ask me what the secret is behind great cocktails, gifts, parties and bars,” said Mr Bacardi.

“It’s really simple: Focus on the experience and only serve the best.”

“Our premium brands — from BACARDÍ to GREY GOOSE (vodka), BOMBAY SAPPHIRE (gin), MARTINI (vermouth/sparkling wines), DEWAR’S (blended Scotch whisky), CAZADORES (tequila) and more — do just that.

“They give you endless possibilities to ‘wow’ your guests. Over the years, I’ve stood by a few go-to tips that make any party memorable.”

Plan ahead

Prepare cocktails in advance so they are easy to serve when your guests arrive. This leaves more time to enjoy and make great memories.

Fresh ingredients

Use seasonal ingredients to ensure the best quality and flavours.

Use good ice

Cocktail insiders know ice made with great tasting water makes a big difference. For perfectly-balanced cocktails, use one inch cubes because they melt more slowly, keeping the drink intense for longer.

Captivate the senses

Enjoying premium spirits is all about the experience.

Think about how your cocktail looks, its aroma, and the glass which holds it all together. A little garnish, like a lemon zest or cranberry, is a great way to tie your vision together.

Quality spirits

Have a variety of premium spirits available. Home bars should be stocked to satisfy the palates of all guests.

The Bacardi family of great-tasting brands covers a wide range of bar calls — rum, vodka, gin, tequila, whisky, cognac, vermouth, liqueurs and sparkling wines.

Signature cocktail

Match the mood of the party or the host’s personality with a unique offering. For a coconut flavour with a hint of cinnamon, try the BACARDÍ Coquito, a traditional Puerto Rican holiday drink.

Food pairings

Complement food with cocktails to bring out the unique flavours.

Enjoy responsibly

Always offer water, soft drinks and food to guests to prolong the good times. Encourage people to take a cab home or use a designated driver.

The Bacardi family of spirits also make ideal gifts. For generations, Bacardi has designed gift packs to capture the excitement of the season. Look out for special 150th anniversary collectibles this Christmas.

“Consumers around the world rely on Bacardi for premium gift giving because they identify with our heritage and value our authenticity. They know from experience they’re giving the best,” said Ed Shirley, president and CEO of Bacardi Ltd.

“Since the very beginning, our products have made memorable gifts that consumers are happy to receive and proud to give.”

For great-tasting holiday recipes visit bacardi.com, greygoose.com, dewars.com, martini.com, or bombaysapphire.com. To learn more about Bacardi and its 150-year heritage of starting great parties, visit www.BacardiLimited.com/150. See also the Bermuda Sun’s Bacardi 150th Anniversary Special Edition on Features at http://bermudasun.bm