Coconut Cartel Special Dark Rum, Guatemala

Premium Guatemalan Rum cut to proof with coconut water for a richer, more authentic tropical sipper.

Danielle and Mike Zighelboim ("Zig" for short) are a brother/sister entrepreneurial combo — born in Miami to Central American parents. In 2013 they started smuggling coconuts back into Miami, branding them with their logo as fancy, drinkable party-favors. This became a thriving business. Restaurants and bartenders started pouring Rum shots into the coconut-water-filled shells for a quick cocktail just like they do in Guatemala and El Salvador. So, starting last year the dynamic duo created a unique take on this Spirited tradition.

Coconut Cartel Rum starts with a blend of Guatemalan Rums aged in American oak — arranged through their partnership with Destiladora de Rones y Alcoholes Sur America (DARSA). But this is not just some "flavored" Rum beverage. Where some Coconut Rums infuse coconut or add coconut flavorings, Coconut Cartel Rum uses 100% pure coconut water to cut the Rum from barrel-strength to proof at 40% ABV. We’ve never heard of that before and it really makes a difference. The flavors feel more rich, authentic, and alive.

The awards are already flooding in, starting with the title of Guatemala Rum of the Year at the 2021 New York International Spirits Competition, Double Gold at the 2021 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, Platinum at the 2021 SIP Awards, and Triple Gold at the 2021 MicroLiquor Spirit Awards.