Flavours of the Costa Tropical Rum (RON)
Rum production is inextricably linked to sugar cane cultivation and sugar production. Sugar production on the Costa Tropical was started by the Moors. Because of the warm tropical climate and access to water, this area was perfect for sugar cane cultivation. In the 13th Century the Muslim Geographer, Yakut, wrote of the vast plantations in the Vega del Guadalfeo, which enjoyed a unique climate, in the whole of Europe: sugar cane is not resistant to frost and sub-zero temperatures and must have bountiful water in the periods of maximum growth (spring/summer) – here both conditions were met. The Moors created sugar plantations up and down the now Costa de Sol and Costa Tropical that were very successful. They produced products such as sugar, dark and light honeys and rum. Until more recently, sugar cane production was a very important part of the local economy, as it had been for over the last 1000 years. By 1860 there were seven industrialised sugar factories in Motril. By 1985 only one factory remained (La Azucarera del Guadalfeo) and the last crop was harvested in 2006; 35,000 tonnes of cane were harvested and 3,000 tonnes of sugar were produced, which were consumed in the local region. The great sugar industry no longer exists today. Some former sugar factories have been turned into cultural centres, while others produce rum using traditional methods.
Ron (rum) Montero
The Montero rum factory is located in Motril, more specifically between Salobreña and Motril. The factory was founded in 1963 by a family with a great sugar tradition. It is the only one in Europe that you can visit, taste the liquors and learn about the production process. Montero rum is produced using traditional technology. It is matured in barrels. The Solera method is used in the production and maturation of the liquor, as is the case with the three production of Jerez wine and brandy. It is not a strictly industrial production, more of an artisanal one, and the rums are sold on the local market and sent for export on individual orders.
You will learn everything you need to know about rum, its production, maturation, types of liquor during a tour of the factory. The tour is free, lasts about an hour and ends with a rum tasting. There is also a shop on site. Tours are organised from Monday to Saturday, at 12.00 p.m. in Spanish and at 1.00 p.m. in English. For groups, contact via WhatsApp: 629 223 428, Email:visitas@ronmontero.com
Our tours LINK https://costatropicaldogs.com/ourtours/
It’s time to get to know rums
Ron Montero Reserva
It is a dark rum matured in an American oak barrel for five years, using the traditional solera method. It has an amber-golden colour, an intense aroma, a bit nutty. The taste is intense, but also delicate. It is best to drink it plain. Alternatively, he can throw in some ice if someone has to. In the factory store, a bottle of 1 litre costs 18 euros.
Ron Palido
Younger cousin of Montero Reserva, because it has been aged for 3 years. This rum has a similar taste and aroma, but less full-bodied due to the shorter aging time. This rum can be drunk on its own, with ice, a slice of lime, or as a long drink with lemonade. In the company store it costs 15 euros per bottle (1 litre). Ron Francisco Montero The name of this rum was given in honour of the founder of the company. A unique rum for special occasions. Created to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the winery and aged in barrels of the same age. It is undoubtedly the king of Montero rums. An excellent, luxurious beverage matured in barrels for 10 years. Golden-amber color, bright. Aroma of good intensity, with notes of candied fruits, exotic and sweet spices. In the company store it costs 60 euros. Plata White rum aged in a barrel for a year. It has a fresh taste and aroma. Soft and light, but expressive. Ideal for cocktails. Price: €12 per bottle (1 l).
Cocktails with Plata rum
Mojito ingredients: 40 ml rum Plata 20 ml simple syrup or two teaspoons brown sugar 2 lime wedges a few mint leaves carbonated water
Preparation:
Pour sugar or syrup into a glass. Squeeze the lime juice, add the mint leaves and mash everything together. Pour in crushed ice. Pour in the rum and top up with sparkling water, in proportions as desired.
Mojito con fresa (with strawberry)
Prepare as you would a classic mojito, but add two strawberries cut in half to the glass.
Cuba Libre
ingredients: rum Plata - 50 ml coca - Cola - 100 ml lime slice ice
Preparations: Add ice to the glass. Add rum, coca-cola, lime slice. Mix ingredients.
