Brugal distillery

Introduction to Brugal

A distillery with passion for craftsmanship

Brugal is a prestigious Dominican rum distillery that seamlessly blends traditional craftsmanship with Caribbean flair. Situated in Puerto Plata on the northern coast of the Dominican Republic, this family-owned operation has established a reputation for delivering exceptional rum, crafted with respect for both raw materials and technique.

The tropical climate of the Dominican Republic creates ideal conditions for aging rum, allowing Brugal to develop its distinctive character and depth that has earned recognition worldwide.

Why we have a soft spot for Brugal

At Vault of Spirits, we appreciate distilleries that create something truly distinctive – both in flavor and identity. Brugal stands out for its meticulous double-distillation process and unique aging technique that exposes the barrels to the tropical Dominican climate.

Their commitment to family tradition, quality control, and authentic Caribbean rum production makes each bottle an expression of both heritage and innovation.

The history behind Brugal

Origin and development

Brugal was founded in 1888 by Andrés Brugal Montaner, a Spanish emigrant who settled in the Dominican Republic after living in Cuba where he learned the art of rum making. With a vision to create a distinctive Dominican rum that would reflect the unique terroir of the island, Brugal established what would become one of the Caribbean’s most respected distilleries.

Through generations of family stewardship, the distillery has grown significantly while maintaining its commitment to quality. Today, Brugal stands as one of the largest rum producers in the Caribbean, yet remains true to its founding principles.

The people behind the brand

Currently in its fifth generation of family leadership, Brugal is guided by the Brugal family who serve as Maestros Roneros (Master Rum-Makers). This select group of family members is responsible for maintaining the distinctive Brugal flavor profile and quality standards.

Each Master undergoes extensive training before being entrusted with safeguarding the family recipes and processes. Their dedication ensures that every decision, from raw material selection to final bottling, reflects the passion that has defined Brugal for over a century.

The craft and production

From raw material to final product

Production at Brugal begins with locally sourced sugarcane, which is processed into molasses. This sweet base undergoes fermentation with a proprietary yeast strain that contributes to Brugal’s distinctive character.

What truly distinguishes Brugal is their double-distillation method using column stills. This process removes many of the heavier congeners and impurities, resulting in a cleaner, drier rum compared to many other Caribbean varieties.

The distillate is then filtered through activated carbon, further refining the spirit before it enters the aging process.

Maturation and aging

Brugal ages its rum in American white oak barrels, many of which previously held bourbon. The tropical climate of the Dominican Republic accelerates the aging process, with the heat causing the rum to expand into the wood and extract flavors more rapidly than would occur in cooler climates.

The aging warehouses are strategically positioned to make the most of the natural environment, and the Master Rum-Makers carefully monitor each batch as it matures. This attention to detail during maturation contributes significantly to the rich, balanced profile for which Brugal is known.

Selected products from Brugal

Brugal Añejo – An introduction to the house style

This expression is an excellent entry point to understand the distillery’s DNA. Notes of vanilla, caramelized sugar, and tropical fruits, accompanied by a pleasantly dry finish make it a favorite among both newcomers and experienced enthusiasts.

Aged between 3-5 years, Brugal Añejo showcases the house’s commitment to producing a refined, complex rum that excels in cocktails but can also be enjoyed neat.

Brugal 1888 – An experience for connoisseurs

A more complex expression from the distillery, Brugal 1888 represents the pinnacle of their craft. This double-aged rum spends time in ex-bourbon American oak barrels before being finished in first-fill Spanish sherry oak casks.

Expect rich notes of dried fruits, chocolate, roasted coffee, and subtle spices with a velvety texture – a bottle for those who truly wish to explore the sophisticated side of premium rum.

Visit the distillery

Tours and tastings

Brugal offers guided tours at their visitor center in Puerto Plata, where you can get up close to the production process – from molasses to glass. The subsequent tasting typically includes 3-5 expressions, providing excellent insight into their range.

Visitors can also explore the aging warehouses and learn about the family’s history, making it a must-visit destination for rum enthusiasts traveling to the Dominican Republic.

Frequently asked questions

What is Brugal?

Brugal is a renowned rum distillery that produces premium spirits with a focus on double-distillation and meticulous aging. Their approach combines Caribbean traditions with proprietary techniques to create distinctive rums with a characteristic dry, clean profile that sets them apart from sweeter competitors.

Where is Brugal located?

The distillery is located in Puerto Plata on the northern coast of the Dominican Republic. The Caribbean location plays a significant role in both the production process and the distinctive character of their rums, with the tropical climate accelerating and enhancing the aging process.

What characterizes Brugal rum?

Brugal is especially known for its drier style compared to many other Caribbean rums, achieved through meticulous double-distillation and filtration. The family’s proprietary aging process, which leverages the Dominican climate, creates rums with exceptional balance, complexity, and a distinctive smoothness.

Where can I buy rum from Brugal?

You can find selected bottles from Brugal at Vault of Spirits. We hand-pick the best expressions – including both core releases and limited editions – ensuring you have access to something special that truly represents this legendary Dominican distillery.