In a major milestone for Costa Rica’s spirits industry, local rum producer Nicoya has officially earned two prestigious “Best Buy” distinctions from the world-renowned publication Wine Enthusiast.

The awards celebrate spirits that deliver exceptional quality alongside outstanding consumer value. Nicoya Añejo scored an impressive 95 points, while Nicoya Blanco earned 93 points, firmly establishing the brand as a formidable player in the global premium rum category.

Costa Rica’s First Single-Estate Rum

This international recognition validates Nicoya’s core identity as Costa Rica’s very first single-estate rum. Produced entirely in the province of Guanacaste, the brand operates in partnership with a historic local sugarcane estate.

Unlike traditional commercial blenders, Nicoya oversees the entire production chain on site:

• Cultivation: High-grade sugarcane is grown directly on the estate.
• Distillation & Blending: The rum utilizes a unique recipe combining fresh sugarcane juice, sugarcane honey, and molasses.
• Aging: The spirit matures under the tropical microclimate of the Nicoya Peninsula inside ex-bourbon oak barrels.

“We fell in love with Costa Rica in 2021 and were immediately impressed by the quality of its sugarcane. Five years later, we are proud to be pioneers of Costa Rica’s first single-estate rum,” said Pierre Bardinet, Director of Nicoya. “These scores recognize our vision: transforming the Costa Rican terroir into a leading rum brand that offers genuine quality, provenance, and excellent value for money.”

Tossing Notes & Price Point

Wine Enthusiast praised both expressions for their distinct character profiles:

1. Nicoya Añejo (95 Points)

Highlights inviting aromas of caramels and rich brown sugar, leading to a remarkably smooth finish accentuated by notes of warm baking spices.

2. Nicoya Blanco (93 Points)

Offers vibrant aromas of toasted coconut, vanilla, cream soda, and clove, rounded out by a subtle, refreshing touch of menthol.

Where to Buy

Nicoya Rum is rapidly expanding its footprint across both international and domestic markets:

• In the United States: Retails at $19.99 per 700ml bottle and is distributed nationwide through Total Wine & More stores.
• In Costa Rica: Distributed exclusively through Grupo Pampa across major retailers and hospitality venues.

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