Baseball Hall of Famer and MVP David Ortiz is stepping into the spirits industry with a bold new venture: Ozama Rum, an ultra-premium, handcrafted spirit made entirely in the Dominican Republic. The legendary slugger announced the launch Wednesday, emphasizing the rum’s cultural roots and his personal connection to the island.
Named after the Ozama River, a vital waterway in Santo Domingo, Ozama Rum embodies the rich heritage and vibrant spirit of the Dominican Republic. It bears the “Ron Dominicano” designation, certifying that it’s made from 100% Dominican sugarcane, fermented, distilled, aged at least a year in oak barrels, and bottled in the country.
Ortiz, who grew up fishing and swimming along the Ozama River, developed the brand with a team of local artisans and spirits experts. Inspired by his childhood memories, Ozama’s packaging is bold and colorful, while its flavor profile is smooth and refined, blending tradition with innovation.
“Ozama isn’t just about rum — it’s about identity, pride, and progress,” Ortiz said. “I wanted to create something that celebrates my people’s energy and soul. This project has been one of the most rewarding of my career, and I can’t wait for people to taste it.”
A Growing Market for Authentic Spirits
The launch aligns with a booming global rum market — valued at nearly $12 billion in 2022 and expected to grow over 5% annually through 2030. Rising demand for natural, artisanal, and authentic spirits positions Ozama Rum to stand out as a premium, culturally rooted option amid the category’s expansion.
“David’s vision was clear: create an ultra-premium rum that feels real, vibrant, and undeniably Dominican,” said Abbott Wolfe, CEO of Drink2Success, which partnered with Ortiz. “Ozama is designed to disrupt the category with authenticity and purpose, celebrating our culture while giving back to the community.”
Three Expressions, One Dominican Soul
Ozama Rum is available in 700ml bottles, priced between $25 and $40, offering consumers a contemporary high-end experience with three distinct options:
– Ozama Blanco: Bright and clear, featuring fresh citrus and white pepper aromas. Its smooth, bold taste balances acidity with hints of vanilla and a long, elegant finish.
– Ozama Añejo: Copper-colored and rich, with notes of chocolate, toffee, spice, and vanilla. Its refined profile offers a long, memorable finish.
– Ozama Gran Añejo: Amber-hued and silky, offering layered aromas of wood, honey, and candied fruits. Flavors of dates and raisins lead to a clean, balanced finish.
Giving Back to the Community
Beyond crafting a high-quality spirit, Ortiz aims to use Ozama Rum as a force for good. A portion of proceeds — around 2% — will support initiatives to clean up the Ozama River and uplift local communities, reflecting Ortiz’s commitment to social responsibility.
“Creating this rum was about more than just flavor; it’s about making a difference,” Ortiz said. “We want to protect our environment and empower the next generation of Dominicans.”
Market Rollout and Future Plans
Prior to its official release, Ozama hosted events in Boston, New York City, Miami, and Santo Domingo, generating buzz among media, distributors, and influencers. The brand’s initial distribution spans online sales at drinkozama.com and select stores across the Dominican Republic and U.S. markets, including Connecticut, Florida, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, Vermont, and South Florida.
As Ortiz’s first venture into spirits, Ozama Rum aims to elevate Dominican craftsmanship on the world stage while celebrating the island’s proud traditions. With its authentic roots and modern appeal, Ozama hopes to become a staple in bars and homes alike.