BACAN GUARO
DELIVERS COLOMBIA'S
NATIONAL SPIRIT TO THE US
Colombia’s national spirit has found a new proponent in the American market by way of Bacan Guaro. Introduced by husband and wife team Ricardo and Diana Espinosa March at the end of July, the up-and-coming brand promises to find a new home for a fiery liquor loaded with herbaceous bite and regional lore.
Guaro — also known generically as “aguardiente” — is a type of anise-flavored spirit derived from sugarcane. Imagine it as a synthesis of rum’s sweetened base and licorice’s salty mouthfeel. In other words, an acquired taste.
The kind of acquired taste that may fit right at home for lovers of sambuca, cachaça or especially spicy gins. Diana, a Colombian entrepreneur and media personality, and her husband Ricardo, an architect and former import manager for Ron Abuelo, are betting that the regional favorite has untapped international potential.
Those hoping to pick up the product can find it at retailers in Florida, New York and New Jersey in two varieties. Bacan 24, bottled at 48 proof, is the milder of the pair, said to balance a sweet anise aroma with flavors of black licorice, delicate flowers and lingering spice. Bacan 29, bottled at 58 proof, dials up the details with a stronger palate of citrus, ginger, black pepper and rosemary. Each is available at $49.99.
