Coconut Cartel’s Latest Creation Infuses White Rum With the Essence of Coconut Water

(Photo: Coconut Cartel)

The Miami-based rum brand, Coconut Cartel has announced the launch of its second expression, Coconut Cartel Blanco. The new release is a white rum from the Dominican Republic that is proofed down with coconut water.

Coconut Cartel first debuted on the market in 2018 with a premium aged Guatemalan rum cut to proof with fresh coconut water, Coconut Cartel Special Añejo. However, the brand got its real start before this, when siblings Dani and Mike Zig began smuggling coconuts from El Salvador into Florida to sell fresh coconut water to Miami Beach’s trendiest hotels and restaurants. The name Coconut Cartel reflects the brand’s beginnings and shows its dedication to building a unique drinking experience that will change rum’s perception. 

Inspired by agricoles, cachaça and charanda, Coconut Cartel set out to make a white rum that highlights the variety of flavors found in sugarcane-based rums. The latest expression is a white rum blend made from a base of unaged pot still rum and one-year-old column still rum aged in American White oak ex-bourbon barrels. The rum is sourced from the Dominican Republic and made from 100 percent estate-grown sugarcane juice from the distillery’s own sugarcane farms.

In keeping with the theme of coconuts, the blend is proofed with fresh coconut water sourced from locally harvested Brazilian Green Dwarf coconuts. This is not to be confused with coconut rums which are artificially and naturally flavored. Coconut Cartel Blanco has no added sugar or flavoring and has an ABV of 46 percent. The coconut water enhances the drinking experience without making it a coconut rum. This edition would be perfect for a daiquiri or ti’ punch. 

“I’m captivated by the diverse and intricate nature of artisanal pot still white rums, particularly cane spirits like Mexican Charanda, Brazilian Cachaça and Rhum Agricole. This fascination inspired us to craft our own white rum blend, aimed at acquainting enthusiasts and curious consumers with the array of funky flavor profiles in a delightful and accessible manner,” said Dani Zig, Co-Founder of Coconut Cartel. “At the heart of our bespoke creation lies our unique coconut water proofing method, a vital component to ensuring our blend’s unrivaled smoothness and approachability. Leveraging coconut water’s rich mineral and salt content, we mitigate any harsh bitterness or “burn” typical of high-proof rums, while enhancing the vibrant flavor nuances exclusive to these high-ester spirits. The outcome? A white rum that retains its bold character while delivering an exceptionally smooth and gratifying drinking experience.”

Coconut Cartel Blanco has an SRP of $28.99 per bottle. This expression can be found online or at select retailers across the United States.

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