Origen X takes Bouvil Haitian rum global
Swiss spirits company Origen X Group will launch the ‘oldest-surviving’ Haitian rum brand, Bouvil Pure Cane Rhum, in the UK and eight European markets this month.
The Vilbon family in Port-au-Prince has crafted Bouvil since the 1850s.
Bouvil was originally sold in oak barrels as clairin, Haiti’s traditional, artisanal sugarcane spirit. The brand has reportedly been recognised in Haiti for generations as a community spirit that ‘embodies resilience, heritage, and terroir’.
The white rum is crafted from 100% indigenous wild Haitian sugarcane, which is grown without pesticides or herbicides.
The fermentation process utilises wild yeasts. Distillation takes place in artisanal stills, including signature hybrid stills.
The result is a distinctive rum style said to be unique to Haiti, bottled at 42% ABV.
The Bouvil production approach emphasises transparency, tracing every element from the fields in which the Madame Mevs sugar cane grows to the distillation sites where the rhum is fermented and distilled.
With its official international release, Origen X Group aims to share Bouvil’s story and craftsmanship with a global audience for the first time.
Zak Oganian, CEO of Origen X Group, said: “Anyone familiar with Haiti understands the immense challenge of producing, exporting, and sustaining a truly authentic, historic Haitian rhum on a global stage. From sourcing wild cane to distillation, consistency, production and logistics – every stage presents countless obstacles. And yet, Bouvil stands alone. It is a singular achievement.
“We are proud to finally bring this cultural treasure to the world, inviting discerning rum drinkers to experience what Haitians have long known – that Bouvil is the purest expression of Haitian craftsmanship and spirit.”
Bouvil Pure Cane Rhum will launch in the UK, Italy, Belgium, Latvia, Estonia, Lithuania, Ukraine, Georgia, and Bulgaria, this February, with a further 10 markets to follow by the end of 2026.
Its flagship expression retails for £38 (US$52) for a 700ml bottle.
Origen X Group’s portfolio includes Mikolasch Ukrainian vodka and Kinahan’s Irish whiskey.
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