The Global Glug
The Global Glug Podcast takes you on a journey through the world of distilled beverages, with a special focus on rum and unique local spirits. We explore their history, production, and cultural impact. Featuring expert guests and multilingual conversations, we dive deep into the craftsmanship and stories behind every bottle. Whether you’re a rum aficionado or simply curious about spirits, this podcast offers a global toast to flavour, tradition, and discovery. Tune in, raise your glass, and join the celebration.
Episodes

Thursday Jan 02, 2025
Thursday Jan 02, 2025
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Dans cet épisode passionnant de The Global Glug, j'accueille Marie, ambassadrice des marques Ron Millionario et Rum Nation. Ensemble, nous explorons son parcours inspirant, depuis ses débuts en tant que bartender jusqu'à son rôle actuel, qui l'amène à parcourir le monde pour partager sa passion pour les spiritueux.
Ses débuts dans l'industrie du bar en tant que bartender et beverage manager.
La transition vers un rôle d'ambassadrice de marque, découvert presque par hasard lors d'un salon à Paris.
Les multiples casquettes qu’elle porte : dégustations, masterclasses, développement de produits, et interactions avec des marchés internationaux.
Son implication directe dans des projets comme le packaging et la création de nouvelles cuvées.
Les différences entre amateurs de whisky et amateurs de rhum.
L’importance de l’éducation et de l’histoire dans la découverte des rhums, notamment ceux issus du Pérou et d’Amérique latine.
Son ambition de participer davantage au développement des produits en collaborant avec des master blenders.
La préparation d’une nouvelle cuvée avec son équipe au Pérou, prévue pour 2026.
L’importance de cette organisation dans la mise en lumière du travail des femmes dans l’industrie des spiritueux.
Sa participation active à des événements tels que le Panama Rum Fest.
Marie partage aussi ses conseils pour ceux qui souhaitent devenir ambassadeur de marque et parle de l'importance de la passion, de l’apprentissage continu, et de l'ouverture d'esprit dans le domaine des spiritueux.
Chapters
(00:00) Introduction à l'univers du rhum(02:48) Le parcours de Marie dans l'industrie du rhum(05:33) Le rôle d'ambassadrice et ses défis(08:21) Techniques de dégustation et approche client(11:19) Perception du rhum par rapport au whisky(14:05) Développement de marque et conquête de nouveaux marchés(17:38) Rôle et responsabilités d'un Brand Ambassador(19:22) Exploration des cuvées et des marchés(21:11) Ambitions et projets futurs dans le secteur du rhum(22:06) Équilibre entre vie professionnelle et vie personnelle(22:58) Rêves de production et de commercialisation(25:41) La communauté du rhum et l'entraide(26:41) Projets à venir et collaborations internationales(28:32) Conseils pour aspirants Brand Ambassadors(29:43) Événements à venir et célébrations

Friday Dec 20, 2024
From Sugarcane to Soltera: Keri Algar’s Journey into Craft Rum Distillation
Friday Dec 20, 2024
Friday Dec 20, 2024
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In this episode of The Global Glug, I welcome Keri Algar, founder of Cabarita Spirits, who shares her remarkable journey into the world of rum distillation. Based in the idyllic Tweed Valley in New South Wales, Keri reveals how her multicultural upbringing, including her first sip of rum in the Dominican Republic, sparked a lifelong passion for the craft.
We delve into:
Keri’s unique location and process: The impact of Tweed Valley’s biodiversity on the floral notes of her Soltera Rum and her reliance on local sugar mills.
Challenges of small-scale distillation: From managing limited space to navigating Australia’s rigorous excise and licensing processes.
Creative innovation in aging and production: Experimenting with diverse barrels such as Pedro Ximénez, Bourbon, and Virgin Oak to create small-batch, single-cask releases.
Balancing tradition and modernity: Incorporating dunder, muck, and wild yeast fermentations for distinct flavour profiles while adapting to market preferences.
Insights into the Australian rum market: Overcoming rum’s reputation challenges and competing in a tough category.
Building a business alone: Keri’s resilience in managing production, marketing, and sales, and how she’s starting to delegate for sustainable growth.
Keri’s story is one of determination, creativity, and adaptability in the face of challenges. Tune in to this episode to learn more about the art of distillation, the entrepreneurial journey of a small-scale distiller, and how passion and creativity can shape the flavours of a truly unique rum.
Chapters
(00:00) Introduction to Keri Algar and Her Journey(05:52) The Challenges of Running a Small Distillery(08:37) The Art of Distillation and Production Process(11:29) Building a Brand and Marketing Strategies(14:24) Unique Characteristics of Cabarita Rum(17:17) Community and Collaboration in Distilling(20:14) Sourcing Ingredients and Building Relationships(23:05) Future Aspirations(25:43) The Journey of Distilling Molasses(29:11) Challenges of Starting a Distillery(31:49) Sales Strategies for Rum(33:00) The importance of motivational support from local people(33:47) Community Support and Challenges(35:11) Overcoming Technical Challenges in Distilling(37:09) The Importance of Quality Control(38:29) Future Plans and Special Releases(40:37) The Excitement of Barrel Aging(42:27) Comparing Distilling Regulations: Australia vs Colombia(44:49) The Evolution of Rum in Australia(46:36) Encouragement to Explore the World of Rum

Saturday Dec 07, 2024
Saturday Dec 07, 2024
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I sit down with Marcos, the creator of Rum Interest, a platform dedicated to spreading the love of rum across the UK and the world. Marcos has become a key figure in the rum community, sharing his passion for the spirit through tasting events, reviews, and engaging content. We dive into his journey with rum, the UK’s growing rum scene, and how he’s helping elevate rum’s profile in a competitive drinks market. Tune in to learn more about the evolution of rum and Marcos' mission to make rum more accessible and enjoyable for all.
Rum Insterest Instagram
(00:00) Introduction to Rum Interest and Marcos Pilavakis(05:57) Building a Community Around Rum(12:01) Understanding Rum's Structure and Diversity(17:24) Organizing Rum Events and Tastings(23:17) Changing Perceptions of Rum(29:13) Innovative Tasting Events and Pairings(35:05) Building Connections in the Rum Industry

Monday Nov 25, 2024
Monday Nov 25, 2024
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In this interview, Antonio Lopez De Haro, the visionary founder of Samai Distillery in Cambodia, shares his inspiring journey from Switzerland to Southeast Asia. Antonio delves into his unique background and the challenges of establishing a premium rum brand in a predominantly whisky-loving market.
The Origin Story Antonio reflects on how his Swiss heritage and passion for craftsmanship shaped his vision for Samai Distillery, leading him to create Cambodia's first premium rum brand.
Cultural Shifts in Drinking Preferences Antonio discusses the Cambodian market’s evolution from whisky to rum, sharing insights into how Samai played a pivotal role in introducing locals to this versatile spirit.
Crafting Unique Rums The conversation explores Samai’s signature creations, including White Rum, Gold Rum, Kampot Pepper Rum, and PX Liquor. Antonio explains the inspiration and production techniques behind these distinctive products.
Partnerships and Collaborations Antonio reveals the story behind Samai’s exciting partnership with La Maison & Velier, offering an insider’s view on how this collaboration is shaping the distillery’s global reach.
Trends in High-Alcohol Rums The interview takes a broader industry perspective as Antonio shares his thoughts on the rising trend of high-alcohol rums and the balance between innovation and tradition.
Sustainability and Community Antonio emphasizes Samai’s commitment to sustainability, discussing local sourcing, community engagement, and the importance of preserving Cambodian flavours in their rum.
Global Market Expansion The discussion moves to Samai’s export strategy, highlighting its biggest markets and how different cultures are embracing Cambodian rum.
Challenges as a Foreign Entrepreneur Antonio candidly shares the obstacles he faced starting a business in Cambodia, from navigating regulations to breaking into a market dominated by whisky.
Looking Ahead Antonio gives a glimpse into Samai’s future, discussing plans for innovation, market expansion, and his vision for the distillery’s legacy in the global rum industry.
Personal Reflections To close, Antonio reflects on the most rewarding moments of his journey and the advice he would give his younger self as a budding entrepreneur.
This interview offers a fascinating deep dive into the world of rum, the entrepreneurial spirit behind Samai, and the rich cultural heritage of Cambodia. Antonio’s story is sure to inspire rum enthusiasts and budding entrepreneurs alike
Email
Rare Spirits Video in Cambodia
Rare Spirits Website
Samai Distillery Website
Chapters
(00:00) From Venezuela to Cambodia: A Journey of Passion(04:44) Building a Distillery: The Birth of Samai Rum(09:16) Educating the Market: Introducing Rum to Cambodians(13:56) Crafting Quality: The Art of Rum Production(18:20) Expanding Horizons: Exporting Samai Rum(22:49) Future Aspirations: What's Next for Samai Distillery(24:11) Production Capacity and Growth Strategies(25:38) Navigating Competition in the Rum Industry(27:23) The Passion Behind Entrepreneurship(30:10) Introducing Rare Spirits Society(35:49) Building a Global Community of Rum Enthusiasts(39:26) The Legacy of Samai Distillery in Cambodia

Thursday Sep 19, 2024
Scoprire il rum Siciliano: episodio con Hugo Gallardo di Alma Distilleria
Thursday Sep 19, 2024
Thursday Sep 19, 2024
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Hugo, che oltre ad essere co-fondatore si occupa di distillazione, vendite e marketing, condividerà con noi la sua appassionante storia. Ci racconterà come lui, sua moglie e un amico hanno deciso di dare vita a questa avventura unica, spinti dalla passione per il rum e ispirati dalle sfide emerse durante la crisi pandemica del 2020. Durante l'intervista, Hugo ci guiderà alla scoperta dei prodotti di Alma Distilleria, illustrandoci i metodi di produzione artigianale che rendono unici i loro distillati. Ci svelerà anche i segreti della produzione del rum in Sicilia, una regione storicamente nota per la sua eccellenza enogastronomica, ma che sta diventando un punto di riferimento anche per gli amanti del rum. Discuteremo inoltre della percezione del rum in Italia, un mercato in crescita dove il rum sta finalmente trovando il suo spazio accanto ad altri spirit più tradizionali. Hugo ci parlerà dell'importanza del mercato statunitense, in continua espansione grazie anche all'influenza di personalità come The Rum Champion, e di come Alma stia posizionando i propri prodotti in questo contesto. Non mancheremo di approfondire i progetti futuri della distilleria: dall'espansione della gamma dei prodotti all'esplorazione di nuovi mercati, fino alle collaborazioni con altre realtà innovative nel mondo del rum. Seguite Alma Distilleria su Instagram e la pagina web per rimanere aggiornati. Non dimenticate di seguire anche il nostro profilo Instagram e la pagina web per tutte le novità del podcast.
Chapters
(00:00) Introduzione e Origini di Hugo Gallardo(03:01) La Decisione di Rimanere in Italia(05:55) La Storia della Canna da Zucchero in Sicilia(09:15) Le Sfide della Produzione di Rum(12:06) La Scelta delle Varietà di Canna da Zucchero(14:54) Il Processo di Distillazione e Sperimentazione(17:46) Le Differenze tra le Varietà di Canna da Zucchero(21:00) Regole e Disciplinari del Rum in Italia(24:10) Il Futuro della Distilleria e dei Prodotti(28:33) Innovazione e Sperimentazione nel Rum(32:20) Espansione nei Mercati Internazionali(35:07) Educazione e Cultura del Rum(37:05) Prospettive di Produzione e Materie Prime(41:11) Tecnologia e Metodi di Distillazione(43:05) Burocrazia e Regolamentazione nel Settore(47:33) Passione e Sfide nel Mondo della Distillazione

Friday Sep 06, 2024
Friday Sep 06, 2024
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En el nuevo episodio de nuestro podcast, nos acompaña Patrick Powers, cofundador de Ron Parce, el ron que puso a Colombia en el mapa mundial del ron premium. Conversamos con Patrick sobre su inspiradora travesía hacia Colombia y cómo nació la idea de crear un ron de alta calidad en un país con una tradición ronera aún en crecimiento. A través de esta charla, Patrick comparte los desafíos que enfrentó al iniciar este proyecto, desde entender el mercado local hasta ganarse el reconocimiento en la escena internacional. Nos revela los secretos detrás de la creación de Ron Parce y cómo logró que este ron colombiano conquistara premios y despertara interés alrededor del mundo. Una historia fascinante de pasión, perseverancia y éxito que no te puedes perder.
(00:00) La historia de Patrick Powers en Colombia(07:20) El amor por el ron y su producción(12:48) Desafíos y oportunidades en la industria del ron(18:09) La producción de ron en Colombia y su contexto(20:00) El futuro del ron colombiano y su mercado(20:30) Desafíos Climáticos en la Producción de Ron(23:16) El Proceso de Añejamiento y su Importancia(26:28) Reconocimiento Internacional y Preferencias del Consumidor(29:21) Impacto de la Legislación en la Industria del Ron(32:05) La Economía de la Caña de Azúcar y su Mercado(35:20) Expansión del Mercado del Ron en el Mundo(38:22) Percepción del Ron en Diferentes Climas

Wednesday Aug 07, 2024
From Singapore to Rwanda: Rohan Shah’s Journey to Crafting Unique Botanical Rums
Wednesday Aug 07, 2024
Wednesday Aug 07, 2024
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Today, we have a very special guest, Rohan Shah, originally from Singapore but now passionately in love with Rwanda. Rohan will take us on a fascinating journey through his unique botanical rum produced right in the heart of Rwanda. We'll explore the rich history of his company and learn how his passion for cocktails led him to become a self-taught distiller. Rohan will share his vision for the future of his brand and reveal what makes his rums stand out in a crowded market. We'll also dive into the business-friendly environment of Rwanda and how it has supported his entrepreneurial journey. Get ready for an inspiring conversation filled with insights, stories, and a deep appreciation for the art of rum-making.
(00:00) Introduction to Rohan Shah and Imizi Rum(05:53) Journey to Rwanda and Starting Imizi Rum(10:27) Crafting a Unique Botanical Rum(13:47) The Rum Market in Rwanda and Africa(16:12) Future Plans for Aging Rum(18:38) Production Challenges and Team Growth(21:33) Cane Juice vs. Molasses in Rum Production(25:01) Vision for the Next Five Years(26:10) Business Environment in Rwanda(28:29) Tourism and Its Impact on Imizi Rum

Wednesday Jul 24, 2024
Wednesday Jul 24, 2024
Stay in the loop! Subscribe to our newsletter at The Global Glug so you never miss an episode.In questo episodio del podcast (in italiano), abbiamo l'onore di parlare con Giovanni Belli e Marcello Duranti, i creatori di Rum Express Milano. Questo innovativo concetto porta degustazioni di rum direttamente a casa vostra, offrendo un'esperienza unica e personalizzata. Durante la conversazione, Giovanni e Marcello ci illustreranno la loro visione del mondo del rum e approfondiranno vari temi affascinanti, tra cui: Il concetto di Rum Express Milano Rum e Whisky: cenni storici Come si svolgono le degustazioni L'importanza della storia per spiegare il rum I loro attuali progetti e lo studio di Betty’s Hope, Antigua Il rum come riscoperta dei propri ricordi Abbinare il rum con il cibo: quali prodotti usare e tecniche di abbinamento Il difficile esercizio di elencare i propri rum preferiti e perché Lo zucchero nel rum: tra marketing, l'importanza di un disciplinare, la droga dei poveri L'importanza dell'informazione per conoscere Il sogno nel cassetto: aprire un proprio locale, quale città e l'importanza della potenziale utenza Non perdete questo episodio ricco di spunti e storie avvincenti sul mondo del rum. Rum Express Milano. Inoltre, se desiderate contattarmi per dubbi, critiche, proposte, o qualsiasi altro motivo, scrivetemi pure via email a molo.renato@gmail.com