VARELA HERMANOS DISTILLERY
PANAMA
Varela Hermanos is a renowned distillery located in Panama, with a rich history that spans over a century.
Established in 1908 by Don José Varela Blanco, originally from Spain, founded the distillery after moving to Panama. He initially established the Ingenio San Isidro, the first sugar mill in the region, capitalizing on the fertile lands of Pesé for sugarcane cultivation.
The area enjoys a tropical maritime microclimate created by the Caribbean Sea to the North and the Pacific in the South. Temperatures range between 25c - 32c all year and the combination of tropical sun and plentiful rain help nourish the fertile soils in which the sugar cane is grown.
1936 see’s the transition from sugar production to rum distillation under the guidance of Don José’s sons. The family started producing rum using the sugarcane from over 1600 hectares of their own fields, ensuring highest-quality raw materials.
The Mid-20th Century sees a period of expansion and modernization of the distillery operations.
Their own brands begin to be introduced most notably the Ron Abuelo brand, which would become one of their flagship products, along with other varieties of rum.
More recently, continuous innovation has seen Varela Hermanos expansion into international markets whilst still maintaining a commitment to quality and tradition while embracing modern techniques and technologies.
Varela Hermanos is credited with playing a significant role in Panama’s rum industry and contributing to the country's cultural and economic heritage.
The distillery’s products have received numerous awards and accolades, highlighting their commitment to excellence.
Varela Hermanos’ history is marked by a blend of tradition, innovation, and dedication to quality, making it a distinguished name in the world of rum.