Rum

Haiti makes some of the best rum in the world, the most iconic of which are made by Barbancourt.  Founded in 1862, it was now managed by CEO Delphine Nathalie Gardère. Barbancourt employs 500 people and works with 3000 local farmers making it a significant source of livelihoods.  Her goal is for Barbancourt to be an International Ambassador of sorts for Haiti.  Political unrest persists in Haiti - but so does the art, music, rum, humor, decency and everything else that makes Haiti unique.  Take a look at the full article in Sante Magazine, also copied below, and see if you can find or order a bottle of Barbancourt Rum.  You'll be glad that you did. 

In the Caribbean, rum was born of pain and suffering but over time became an integral part of the identity of Caribbean countries.  Haiti is no exception - maybe I'm biased but I thnk Haiti has the most interesting rum in the world, ranging from Barbancourt 15 Years to the potent white rum of the countryside called Klerin.  Haiti's aged rums are ideal for enjoying neat - perhaps with just a bit of ice and a twist of key lime.  Klerin is gaining an appeciation by bartenders who appreciate its rustic, grassy flavors.  You don't have to get on an airplane to enjoy Haiti's rums although if you do, there will be no shortage of opportunities to try a range of traditional rums, infused rums, and rum-based cocktails.