In the verdant landscapes of Barbados, where the air is thick with the scent of sugar cane and the rhythm of life beats to the tune of tradition, rum is more than just a beverage—it's a cultural cornerstone. Rooted in centuries of labor and heritage, rum embodies the resilience and celebration of the Caribbean spirit. And at the heart of this rich tapestry lies the story of Bartender Spirits Awards 2023 winner, 1966 Artisanal Rum Punch.

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Growing up in a household of Bajan immigrants, Ajani husbands, owner of 1966 Artisanal Rum, was immersed in the sights, sounds, and aromas of rum-making from a young age. “I can vividly recall the evenings spent on the porch, where uncles would gather to share stories over glasses of rum, and aunts would meticulously prepare black cake, infusing each layer with the essence of the island,” says Ajani as reminisces his words of cherished memories. Rum punch, with its tantalizing blend of flavors, became synonymous with family gatherings and festive occasions, leaving an indelible mark on the palate and memories of 1966 Artisanal’s founder. 

Inspired by these cherished memories, Ajani set out on a quest to craft a rum punch that would not only honor his Bajan roots but also embrace the diverse cultural influences that have shaped the Caribbean. Drawing upon centuries-old recipes and techniques, he embarked on a journey to create a drink that would capture the essence of Barbados while forging new connections with regions beyond the Caribbean.

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1966: Artisanal Rum Punch—a labor of love that combines the finest ingredients with time-honored craftsmanship. At its core lies South African rum, sourced from the sun-drenched fields of the Western Cape, where sugar cane thrives under the African sun. This exceptionally smooth and flavorful rum forms the foundation upon which has built a tribute to Bajan tradition.

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To enhance the rich complexity of 1966 Artisanal Rum, a meticulous blend of fresh citrus, exotic spices, pure cane sugar, and aromatic bitters is curated. This careful selection of ingredients contributed to the exceptional success of 1966 Artisanal Rum at the Bartender Spirits Awards 2023, earning an impressive 81 points and a coveted silver medal. Each ingredient is thoughtfully chosen to elevate the punch's flavor profile, resulting in a delightful symphony of tastes and textures that beckon the drinker on an enchanting journey of discovery.

Named in honor of the year of Barbados' independence, 1966 represents more than just a drink; it is a testament to the enduring spirit of resilience and innovation that defines the Caribbean. With its bold yet elegant branding, 1966 pays homage to the past while embracing the future, serving as a bridge between tradition and modernity.

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“It is very expensive to enter foreign competitions from South Africa, particularly competitions based in the United States. That being said, the Bartender Spirits Awards are one of the very few competitions that we choose to enter in the United States, precisely because of the value we receive for our wins,” says Ajani Husbands emphasizing the significant value derived from participating in the esteemed Bartender Spirits Awards of 2023.

He continued, “And the fact that it's judged by other bartenders really gives the competition a leg up. It allows us to assure restaurants and bars that our product has already been judged by world-renowned bartenders, rather than judges whose qualifications our clients might not know about.”

1966 is more than just a beverage—it's a reflection of his heritage, a celebration of the diverse cultures that have shaped his identity, and a tribute to the countless hands that have labored to bring this drink to life. With each bottle of 1966: Artisanal Rum Punch, they invite you to raise a glass to the timeless traditions and enduring legacy of rum-making in the Caribbean.