For decades, Ron Matusalem has held a revered position in the world of rum – a cornerstone of Venezuelan rum production, known for its profoundly dark, rich character and enduring legacy. But beneath the surface of this established brand, a quiet and remarkably successful revival is underway, spearheaded by rum enthusiast and collector, Claudio Renaud, founder of Rum Collective. Renaud’s project isn’t a simple re-release; it’s a completely new, limited-edition offering, meticulously crafted from barrels sourced directly from the same distillery, breathing fresh life into a classic that many had begun to view as a fading icon. As Renaud himself eloquently put it in an interview with *The Spirits Business*, “It’s a nest egg situation.”
A Family Affair – Literally
Claudio Renaud is a figure deeply respected within the rum community, a passionate advocate for quality and a collector with discerning taste. His project isn’t driven by commercial ambition, but by a genuine desire to explore and celebrate the original Ron Matusalem’s heritage. He’s been quietly producing a small batch of the rum, utilizing barrels that originated at the same distillery where the iconic Ron Matusalem was produced. This isn’t a simple re-packaging or a straightforward re-release; it’s a completely new product, stemming from Renaud’s deep appreciation for the rum’s history and his commitment to creating a truly exceptional and demonstrably unique drinking experience. The project represents a labor of love, a dedication to preserving the essence of a rum that had, in some circles, begun to be seen as a relic of the past.
The Details – Flavor & Technique
The current release of Ron Matusalem isn’t a single, rigidly defined formula; instead, it’s a carefully curated selection of barrels, each contributing subtly different nuances to the final product. *The Spirits Business* article highlighted Renaud’s innovative experimentation with various maturation techniques. The rum is primarily aged in ex-bourbon barrels, which accounts for a significant portion of its complex flavor profile. This aging process has a profound impact, as noted by *Difford’s Guide*, “The rum is primarily aged in ex-bourbon barrels, which adds notes of vanilla and caramel to the overall flavor.” These aren’t overpowering notes, but rather delicate layers that build with each sip, revealing a depth of character previously associated solely with the older, larger-batch Ron Matusalem.
What’s particularly noteworthy is Renaud’s meticulous approach. He’s employing a careful selection process, focusing on barrels that were once used to age bourbon, and utilizing them exclusively for the creation of this new release. This level of control is crucial, ensuring consistent quality and allowing for a deeper, more nuanced understanding of the maturation process. He’s not simply relying on luck; he’s actively shaping the rum’s evolution.
What the Experts Say
The results of Renaud’s efforts are already generating significant buzz within the rum world. *Rum Ratings* has described the new Ron Matusalem as “a complex and incredibly rewarding experience,” praising its depth of flavor, its lingering finish, and its overall character. This positive assessment is a clear indication that Renaud’s dedication to quality, his meticulous attention to detail, and his commitment to preserving a classic rum’s heritage are paying off handsomely. The rum is being lauded for its ability to stand on its own merits, a testament to Renaud’s skill and discernment.
Limited Availability – Don’t Miss Out
Currently, the new Ron Matusalem is being released in extremely limited quantities. Given the rum’s exceptional quality, its small-batch production, and the inherent scarcity of its barrels, securing a bottle is highly recommended. Demand is expected to be strong, and retailers are anticipating limited stock. Keep a keen eye out for updates and availability from Rum Collective (rumcollective.com – *placeholder website*) and select retailers specializing in premium rum. Don’t wait – this is a rum that’s destined to become a collector’s item.
Resources:
*
Source: https://www.thespiritsbusiness.com/2025/12/sb-meets-claudio-renaud-alvarez-ron-matusalem/
