British rum brand secures distribution in France

New British ‘craft’ spirits brand Matugga Rum is set to launch in France after signing an exclusive distribution deal with Société Dugas.

Matugga Rum has secured an exclusive distribution deal in France with Dugas Société

Two expressions of Matugga Rum will launch in the country through Dugas – one of France’s largest spirits distributors – including Matugga Golden Rum and Matugga Spiced Rum.

Matugga Rum first launched in the UK in October 2015 and was founded by husband and wife team Paul and Jacine Rutasikwa.

Paul Rutasikwa said: “We are thrilled to be working with Dugas to bring our distinctive craft rums to France’s discerning consumers and rum enthusiasts.

“Dugas enjoys a long-standing heritage and outstanding reputation, and we are delighted that the Matugga Rum brand will join its handpicked portfolio of high quality international spirits.

“Rum is ranked amongst the most dynamic spirits in the highly influential French market and we expect our distinctive spirits to capitalise on the country’s growing demand for atypical flavours, authenticity and premium quality.

“This is an exciting time for British craft spirits exports and we see the agreement as a formidable platform for our young brand’s growth into overseas markets.”

Matugga Rum is triple-distilled in 200-litre copper pot stills in Cambridgeshire, UK, using sugar cane molasses from East Africa.

Matugga Golden Rum is aged in uncharred English oak casks, while Matugga Spiced Rum is infused with a masala chai blend of six botanicals – black tea, ginger, cloves, vanilla, cardamom and cinnamon.

Both expressions of Matugga Rum are bottled at 42% abv and carry an RRP of £39.99 per 700ml bottle.