Two bottling companies (Bacardi in Puerto Rico and Pernod Ricard in Cuba) have been selling rum under the same name, Havana Club. As 60 Minutes correspondent Sharyn Alfonsi reports, for years the two companies have been in court, fighting for the right to the fabled brand. When President Obama lifted the embargo on Cuban cigars and rum, the stakes became even higher. Pernod Ricard has what some see as the advantage since they make their Havana Club rum in Cuba and in partnership with the Cuban government.
But politics and big business aside, it all comes down to taste. You can buy a 7-year-old bottle of Havana Club rum for about $28 via TheWhiskyExchange. A 3-year-old bottle sells for about $23. You really ought to taste both brands before you decide who you want to win this legal battle. Add enough pineapple juice and it may not matter. Alfonsi’s report from Cuba will air on New Year’s Day on 60 Minutes at 7:30pm on CBS.
