Angostura celebrates Caricom's 50th anniversary with Tribute

ANGOSTURA is marking Caricom’s 50th anniversary with a special limited spirit called Angostura Tribute Caricom.

The rum and bitters maker presented its batch of Angostura Tribute Caricom to Minister of Foreign and Caricom Affairs Dr Amery Browne at the House of Angostura, Laventille, on August 7.

Only 240 bottles of Angostura Tribute Caricom were produced.

The bottles will be given to Caricom for regional and international hospitality events at international missions and embassies of its 15 member states, Angostura said.

The rum will be displayed and sampled at various events hosted by the embassies, it added.

Produced in collaboration with West Indies Rum and Spirits Producers Association (WIRSPA) the exclusive Angostura Tribute was created by an all-female blending team.

Angostura's chief operating officer Ian Forbes said this initiative is a heartfelt tribute that speaks to the unity, progress, history and vibrant culture of the Caribbean region as it marks the culmination of a year-long celebration of Caricom's 50th anniversary.

"The presentation of this blend recognises the collective success of Caricom in promoting regional integration and development while also celebrating Angostura's 200th anniversary.

"The Caricom 50th anniversary rum is more than just a beverage; it is a celebration of our shared heritage and the future of Caribbean rum. We are proud to partner with Angostura in this endeavour, highlighting the remarkable talent within our region," said Vaughn Renwick, chairman of WIRSPA.

Browne recognised the international acclaim of Caricom’s rums and attributed this appeal to Caribbean diversity and creativity.

"Ours is the best and it is central to our island vibe appeal. Our little nation may not be a superpower, but we do have superpowers. These are our diversity and our creativity. These are our superpowers. These powers are on full display in all of Angostura’s products."

He expressed his gratitude when receiving the rum and recognised Angostura's success in the global market as an integral part of national progress:

"I am honoured and humbled to officially receive this very special edition Angostura tribute, Caricom rum, as an integral part of the commemorative events for Caricom’s golden anniversary – our 50th anniversary."

Browne said making gifts of the rum to overseas missions would also be an approach to showcasing, marketing and expanding Trinidad and Tobago's export base.

"A key part of diplomacy as well is the ability to give a gift – not just any gift. Something like a signature Angostura product says a lot. It's a demonstration of value. The packaging also carries the name of the country, ethos of the country, and we pride ourselves in that signature island flavour."

Browne lamented the past challenges of the Caribbean region post-pandemic and described the ministry's efforts in rebuilding key aspects of the region's economy.

"The importance of this anniversary is particularly poignant to our small island developing states that have been working to rebuild our economies after the pandemic, to safeguard the livelihoods of our citizens and to earn space and recognition on a global stage."

He hinted at the ministry's efforts in improving economic activity, increasing regional connectivity through air and sea travel, building climate resistance and pursing climate justice, and achieving sustainable development through agricultural initiatives to advance the safety and security of Caricom people.

"Our heads of government have also focused on building a platform for the success of the region's youth and future generations for the next 50 years and beyond. In this vein as a core building-block for youth engagement, Caricom has been working to create digital resilience, including in artificial intelligence and data analytics, encouraging youth participation in agriculture and revitalising West Indies cricket."

With reporting by Kristen-Le Chelle Winchester