Declared the world’s No. 1 rum by an international publication in 2023, Tanduay took rum lovers on a journey into its rich past and showed how to best enjoy its award-winning rums through the “Crafted to A T: Tanduay Signature Masterclass” on July 16, 2024, at OTO Bar in Poblacion, Makati. The event provided a sensory immersion into the craftsmanship and heritage that define the Philippines’ renowned brand and marked the launch of its latest Signature Collection. The collection includes international products such as Tanduay Asian Rum Silver, Tanduay Asian Rum Gold, Tanduay Double Rum, and Especia Spiced Rum.

“We have organized this event to demonstrate how one can have a better appreciation for rum through Tanduay’s exquisitely crafted spirits. As we are featuring the Tanduay Signature Collection, we are also celebrating Filipino pride; All the rums in this collection have received international praise. They are testaments to Tanduay’s unwavering commitment to  excellence and innovation and we are proud to bring them to the Philippine market,” said Janno Gironella, Tanduay Distillers, Inc. R&D Head.

The Signature Collection
The collection includes Tanduay Asian Rum Silver, which features a good intensity of mandarin and grapefruit peel with toasted notes, and a background aroma of coconut and vanilla. It tastes like cream soda with harmonious citrus flavors and is aged up to 5 years in ex-bourbon barrels. Next is the bright golden amber-colored Tanduay Asian Rum Gold. It offers a good balance of alcohol level and sweetness, with distinct vanilla, tropical fruit, coconut, and nutmeg notes. This rum is aged up to 7 years in ex-bourbon barrels. Third is Tanduay Double Rum, a dark amber-colored deluxe aged rum with caramelized pineapple flavor and a mellow blend of cherry and vanilla. Lastly, Tanduay Especia Spiced Rum has a sweet and elegant aroma with hints of fruit cake, cinnamon, caramel, almond, and vanilla. It offers a mellow, smooth, and dry feel.

Rum tasting and exclusive cocktails
The evening’s centerpiece was the rum appreciation session, curated to deepen understanding of the Tanduay Signature Collection. Attendees were guided through each bottle, uncovering the details that make them masterpieces of Filipino rum-making. Guests learned the basics of rum tasting, observing the color, aroma, body, taste, and finish of Tanduay’s Signature Collection rums.

OTO’s top bartenders, David Abalayan and Alex Javier, created the Strawberry Taho Fizz with Tanduay Asian Rum Silver, the Kare-Kare Kraze with Tanduay Asian Rum Gold, Guyabano Ginger Tea with Tanduay Double Rum, and Champorado at Tuyo with Especia Spiced Rum. Complementing these cocktails were dishes crafted by veteran Chef Rob Pengson, including Tuna Tostada with Pineapple and Coconut Dressing, Crispy Shrimp with Dill Remoulade, Chicken Liver Crostini with Mango Chutney, and Cheese and Nut Cones with Preserved Fruit.

A journey into 170 years
Before the masterclass and rum tasting began, guests were greeted with a selection of items at the flavor table and the sight of rum barrels, setting the stage for an exploration of the Tanduay Signature Collection. The Heritage Gallery offered a backdrop showcasing Tanduay's 170-year history, from its origins to its current status as a symbol of Filipino craftsmanship.