Destilería Cruz, Jayuya, PR

History

The unmistakable taste of pitorro is something deeply engrained into the collective consciousness of all Puerto Ricans. For decades, the production of this rum has been deemed clandestine by the authorities, simply because it didn’t pay taxes. PitoRico is now offering a craft and refined version of that pitorro, still made by hand, but using the latest distillery equipment to make it the premiere gourmet pitorro the world has ever seen. With the highest standards of quality and world-class production, PitoRico promises to deliver a pitorro of unsurpassed excellence, from Puerto Rico to the world.

Destilería Cruz, a company founded by José Luis Cruz, produces PitoRico in Jayuya, Puerto Rico. Mr. Cruz, a native of Jayuya, remembers fondly how his uncle and other family members would skillfully brew the pitorro, especially during the Christmas season. Some years back, while attending a cultural festival, the initial idea of producing quality pitorro was conceived. As a self-made businessman with a background in telecommunications, Mr. Cruz brings an entrepreneurial vision of innovation to Destilería Cruz and its line of products.

After attending a two-week distillery course hosted by professors of the University of Iowa, the PitoRico team began producing their own pitorro using the most sophisticated Holstein brand equipment manufactured in Germany. In their quest to refine their product, a detailed process was undertaken to eliminate all the chemicals and impurities that cause the headaches and burning sensations associated with homemade pitorro.

With the tasty blends of Fruit flavor, the exotic citrus of Orange, the sweet tart of Passion Fruit, the exquisite taste of Coconut, the aromatic Anise, and the sweet and sour Tamarind, PitoRico’s flavors have something for everyone. Each taste contains a variable percent alcohol by volume and has its own color, along with a colorless pitorro for consumers who wish to make their own mixes. Members of the old guard, who for years crafted pitorro in their homes, are serving as consultants to insure PitoRico’s product tastes authentic. In time, PitoRico will develop more tastes.

Many countries offer their own version of pitorro – or “moonshine” as its often referred to – and Puerto Rico is no different. PitoRico intends to bring an authentic Puerto Rican flavor to the masses of the 21st century. Being a family company, Destilería Cruz is committed to having a positive impact on Puerto Rico’s economy by exclusively using local goods to create PitoRico. With U.S. distribution on the horizon, it’s only a matter of time before PitoRico begins seducing taste buds across the continent. Consolidating the tradition of the countryside with the modernity of the city, PitoRico is a high-end and accessible product offering the best of both worlds.