From humble beginnings in the sugarcane fields of Bulacan to becoming a global symbol of Filipino craftsmanship, Tanduay has carved a legacy worth celebrating. As the brand marks its 8th consecutive year as the World’s Number 1 Rum & Rum Brand Champion (2024), it stands as a testament to time-honored tradition, innovation, and global ambition.
“Our success was built on generations of craftsmanship. As we expand our global presence and develop more products, we remain committed to the values and traditions that have guided us for more than a century,” said Tanduay COO Kyle Tan.
Roots of a Rum Legacy
Tanduay’s story dates back to the Spanish colonial era, when it was known as Ron de Destilerías en Hagonoy y Tanduay. Its earliest operations began in a small distillery in Hagonoy, Bulacan— Destilería de Hagonoy, owned by Elías Menchacatorre. Eventually, the distillery was acquired by master blender Valentin Teus, who merged it with Destilería de Ynchausti y Compañía, a business empire founded in 1854.
By 1862, the distillery had moved to Isla de Tanduay in Manila, setting up on Calle Tanduay beside the Pasig River. At the time, it was the largest distillery in the Far East, known for its towering furnaces and massive production facilities.
The Science and Soul of Rum-Making
After World War II, Faustino J. Munarriz, a chemical engineer, became Tanduay’s longest-serving master blender. Under his leadership, the brand preserved its classic rum-making techniques while embracing science-based innovations. His legacy includes the creation of the Tanduay Rhum Dark Five Years and the ESQ premium line.
“Our master blenders are the heart of Tanduay. They are the gatekeepers of tradition, ensuring that every bottle meets our world-class standards,” Tan added.
Today, Tanduay offers a diverse portfolio — premium and flavored rums, cocktails, whiskies, gins, and collector’s editions—each one crafted with precision and pride.
A Proud Filipino Icon on the Global Stage
Tanduay’s influence has gone global. It is now available in over 20 countries including the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, South Korea, Taiwan, and the United Arab Emirates, among others.
What began as a local distillery has grown into an international brand, yet it remains proudly Filipino at its core.
“As we look forward to more years of growth, we remain rooted in the Filipino values of resilience and perseverance,” said Tan. “We share this journey with our kababayans, proudly representing our heritage to the world.”
