Rum – The Liquid Gold
This is a rare opportunity to be part of a high-premium distillery project in the evocative island location of Porto Santo, Madeira, with unique characteristics ideal for Madeira rum production.
Experts predict that rum is on the verge of becoming the next booming spirit. It is considered the most versatile of spirits, capable of blending harmoniously with a variety of mixers, creating an exceptional drinking experience. This level of versatility is unmatched by gin, whisky, tequila or most other spirits. Rum’s untapped potential is significant.
The rum category is currently experiencing an exciting transformation, with an explosion of new flavours and the rise of home cocktail-making encouraging consumers to explore its diverse styles, from agricole to spiced. Rum is undoubtedly at a pivotal moment, with greater opportunities to premiumise and diversify than ever before.
Christopher Columbus 1477 Distillery® represents a long-term commitment and a rewarding investment. This Share Offer will, in 2027/28, invite you to become part of a distinctive distillery business and a unique community.
In return for your investment, you will become a part-owner of a special distillery with a new architecturally designed plant, with the rewards for those who appreciate craft-distilled rum and aspire to be part of a long-term success story.
The Distilling Process at Christopher Columbus 1477 Distillery®
The journey begins in the sugar cane fields of Madeira, where 100% of the sugar cane is locally grown.
Our approach is deeply rooted in craftsmanship, combining traditional methods, expertise and an unwavering dedication to quality.
The Spirit of Excellence
Great rum is the product of expertise, passion and hard work. It is the creation of individuals and teams with a deep understanding of their craft, a respect for tradition and a vision for the future.
Rum is more than a drink; it is an experience that evokes history, culture and emotion. To be part of this journey is to embrace the story of a spirit that has truly conquered the world.
The White Gold
Sugar, honey and rum have played a pivotal role in the history of Madeira, an island once famed as a major producer and supplier of what was historically known as “white gold” “Ouro Branco”, a liquid gold.
The island’s rugged terrain made cultivation extremely challenging, leading to the forced importation of enslaved people from Africa to work on the sugarcane plantations and in the mills. At that time, sugar was a luxury commodity, and as plantations expanded, the sugar industry became a cornerstone of Madeira’s economy.
Madeiran sugar gained renown across Europe, attracting traders and merchants who settled in Funchal and surrounding regions, including Ponta do Sol, Calheta and Ribeira Brava—all of which became significant sugarcane producers.
Throughout history, rum has served as the spirit that unites people, providing solace during times of illness and hardship. It is a drink that brings individuals together as they exchange intimate stories and tales of sorrow, all while savouring a few drams.
Now, more than ever, we wish to celebrate this splendid global libation and connect fellow enthusiasts from around the world.
In the 15th, 16th, 17th and 18th centuries, rum from Madeira was more valuable than today, so much so that in Europe, it was called “Ouro Branco”, liquid gold and used not only as a drink but in cooking, making sweets and for medical purposes.
This is a unique opportunity, first Christopher Columbus, with all the history, second Porto Santo, and we have a true story to tell, about the hardship and the constant pirate attacks. It is only right that the “Oura Branca” golden nectar – Rum should come from the Golden Island of Porto Santo, with the special edition of 2027 – a rum beyond any previous. (see “Our Rum – ChristopherColumbusDistillery.com” )
Our objective is to bring soul, substance, and storytelling to the fore and create a product of exceptional quality that has taken incredible skill and craft to produce. Uncompromised, traditionally handcrafted rum of the highest quality.
We aim to push the boundaries of rum as no one has before. Not out of a mere desire to break the rules, but to reimagine what the category can become—more innovative, transparent, and collaborative. To create a truly new rum experience, we must continually explore, discover, and never remain static.
The new distillery in Porto Santo
This presents a great opportunity for us to create an architectural masterpiece through an international architectural competition, not only for Porto Santo and Madeira but also internationally, which we can be proud of, just like our exquisite rum. This competition will be governed by the International Union of Architects’ rules.
The distillery designs must marry technological advances with historical context, resulting in buildings that are as innovative and beautiful as they are functional. It should be the significant attraction of Porto Santo and something which truly reflects their traditions and connection with Christopher Columbus.
The opening of the flagship Distillery space in Porto Santo coincides with the launch of our inaugural rum, Christopher Columbus 1477 Distillery’s 2027 Special Edition of Super-Premium Rum, a celebration of elevated flavours.
Join us and revel in the sunny ambience of Porto Santo and Christopher Columbus 1477 Distillery®, centuries of tradition to create the best and most exclusive Premium Rum. This rum, together with ColumbusWorld – ChristopherColumbusWorld will be a Pride in Porto Santo.
Christopher Columbus
Columbus is often referred to as the Father of the New World. Most schoolchildren know his name, having heard various stories about the explorer.
The entire narrative surrounding Christopher Columbus constitutes a political concealment. It is a political cover-up right from the start, preventing us from uncovering the genuine account.
Numerous American cities, counties, and institutions bear the name of Christopher Columbus, underscoring his esteemed position in American civic life. There are more than 600 statues of Christopher Columbus in the US. Early Americans portrayed Columbus as the first frontiersman of America, a hero who departed from the comforts of Europe in pursuit of a new beginning in a fresh world. They hailed him as an enlightened advocate of science, challenging obscure European ideas.
Nevertheless, Columbus exhibited the resilience and determination to overcome formidable obstacles.
Compelling evidence, challenging to conceal, reveals that Christopher Columbus named Cuba. At his time, the sole location Cuba was in Portugal. Furthermore, he assigned names to 40 islands and places, all within a 50-kilometre radius of Cuba in Portugal, where towns were named, and not a single one was named after any Italian location. These included names like Santiago, Trinidad, San Juan, Nevis, Santa Lucia, Saint Barthélemy, Isabella, Vera Cruz, Santa Clara, Meron, and San Salvador (Holy Saviour) in the Bahamas. He even named a place Porto Santo and San Vincent, from two places he knew in Madeira.
That Christopher Columbus named a place Porto Santo in the Caribbean is significant. His connection with Porto Santo is well documented. Christopher Columbus entered into matrimony with Filipa Moniz Perestrelo, a noblewoman and the daughter of Bartolomeu Perestrelo, the governor of Porto Santo, in the year 1478. Together, they took up residence on the island of Porto Santo for a period, and their former dwelling now serves as a museum.
Throughout history, scant attention has been paid to the fact that Christopher Columbus laid the foundation for his ambitions and subsequent discoveries during his sojourn in Porto Santo. It was under the guidance of his father-in-law that he gained extensive expertise, took notes, acquired maps, and amassed knowledge in the realm of seamanship.
Madeira, an archipelago under Portuguese rule, emerged as the world’s leading exporter of sugar. A youthful Christopher Columbus received training in the sugar trade of Madeira, and this experience would prove pivotal when he embarked on his second voyage to the Caribbean. As he contemplated ways to capitalise on his initial expedition, Columbus identified the potential for cultivating sugarcane on the Caribbean islands. Consequently, during his second journey in 1493, it is said that he brought sugarcane with him to establish plantations in the Caribbean.
In the mid-1500s, drawing upon the expertise gained from Madeira, Portugal commenced the cultivation of sugarcane in Brazil, subsequently resorting to the importation of African slaves to toil on these plantations. It didn’t take long for people to begin fermenting sugarcane juice to produce alcohol, which eventually became known as cachaça. This was the type of rum originally crafted in Madeira, dating back to the late 14th or early 15th century. Although cachaça is occasionally referred to as rum, many consider it to be a distinct and unique spirit.
Porto Santo
If there are places that seem to have emerged from the realm of dreams, Porto Santo unquestionably ranks among them. This exquisite island, located 88 kilometres away from Madeira, holds a special distinction as one of the earliest locations, alongside Madeira itself, where rum was consumed in the early 14th century. Rum once played a central role in Madeira’s economy.
Also known as the “Golden Island,” Porto Santo is 11 kilometres in length and 6 kilometres in width. It is situated in the Atlantic Ocean, 500 kilometres off the African Coast, 900 kilometres southwest of Lisbon, and 1300 kilometres from the Azores Islands. Covering an area of approximately 41 square kilometres, Porto Santo is inhabited by a population of 5,000 residents.
It appears that prior knowledge of Atlantic islands like Madeira existed long before their official discovery and settlement. Maps dating as far back as 1339 include these islands, indicating their earlier presence. A portolan dating to 1351, preserved in Florence, Italy, suggests that Madeira’s islands had been discovered long before the Portuguese expedition of 1418 claimed them. There is even some evidence to suggest that the Vikings may have visited Madeira 350-400 years earlier.
However, the discovery of Porto Santo Island and the other Madeira islands was not documented until 1418. Porto Santo was accidentally discovered when captains, caught in a storm, sought refuge in its sheltered harbour. The name “Porto Santo” (meaning “Holy Harbour” in English) was inspired by the sailors’ accounts of finding a protected bay during the tempest, which they interpreted as a divine deliverance. The first Portuguese settlers arrived in the 1420s.
Despite its modest population, the island of Porto Santo has ambitious plans to achieve carbon neutrality by adopting electric cars and embracing renewable energy sources. Porto Santo may be small in size, but it boasts remarkable natural attractions. Its crystal-clear waters and an iconic 9-kilometre expanse of golden sand are particularly enchanting.
With year-round sunshine, picturesque cliffs, and idyllic swimming spots, the island is a highly sought-after destination for travellers. While relaxing on the pristine sands, you’ll discover that the famous beaches of Porto Santo are renowned for their therapeutic properties, known to alleviate rheumatism and circulatory issues.
According to historical records, Christopher Columbus married Filipa Moniz Perestrelo, the daughter of Bartolomeu Perestrelo, who was the Governor of Porto Santo. The couple lived in Porto Santo for some time, and it was during this period that Columbus gained knowledge and experience in navigation and exploration, which eventually led to his transatlantic voyages.
Overall, the relationship between Christopher Columbus, Madeira, and Porto Santo is intertwined through Columbus’s stay on the islands, his marriage to a Porto Santo noblewoman and native, and the role of these islands as strategic stops during the Age of Exploration.
- Madeira Rum
1. Geographical Indication (GI): Madeira Rum has a Geographical Indication (GI), which means that it can only be produced in a specific geographical area, in this case, Madeira, a Portuguese archipelago located in the Atlantic Ocean.
2. Sugar Cane Juice: Unlike many other types of rum that are made from molasses, Madeira Rum is made exclusively from sugar cane juice. This classification as an agricultural rum sets it apart from other rums.
3. Traditional Production: The production of Madeira Rum follows traditional methods that have been passed down through generations. This includes the fermentation and distillation of sugar cane juice, which contributes to its unique flavour profile.
4. Unique Quality: Madeira Rum is known for its unique quality and characteristics. The combination of sugar cane juice and the traditional production processes results in a spirit with a distinct and appealing taste.
5. Persevering History: Like many spirits, the history of Madeira Rum has had its share of challenges and uncertainties. However, it has persevered over the years, maintaining its status as a sought-after and prized spirit.
6. Seduction of Connoisseurs: Madeira Rum is highly regarded by connoisseurs who appreciate its distinctive flavour and the craftsmanship that goes into its production. It is a spirit that often appeals to those with a discerning palate.
7. Imitation-Proof: The combination of its unique production methods, geographical indication, and history makes Madeira Rum difficult to imitate. This rarity adds to its allure among spirits enthusiasts.
In summary, Madeira Rum is a unique and historically significant spirit that is deeply rooted in the traditions of Madeira. Its distinct production methods and the use of sugar cane juice set it apart from other rums, making it a prized and appealing choice for those who appreciate the artistry of craft spirits.
Simon Hales, analyst at Citi, said: “The super-premium rum category has been highlighted by many industry observers as the next exciting growth category in spirits. Given similar craft credentials to other brown spirits, ‘sippability’ and opportunities to expand in upmarket bars and restaurants, it clearly has potential.”
Advanced Technology
Christopher Columbus was an explorer and a pioneer in his time. The distillery will rely on advanced technology, including Artificial Intelligence to live up to our sustainability commitments: to use less water and land and to leave the smallest carbon footprint compared to traditional rum-making processes. We will use the services of the highly respected scientific consultants. In an industry steeped in tradition, we will be different from anything you’ve seen or tasted thanks to a refined yet creative approach, one that aligns purpose with passion.
We aim to push the boundaries of rum as no one has before. Not out of a mere desire to break the rules, but to reimagine what the category can become—more innovative, transparent, and collaborative. To create a truly new rum experience, we must always keep exploring, continually discovering, and never remain static.
We will allow a hand-selected cultivar of bespoke flavours to erupt within each bottle while using less wood, water, and energy than any rum ever before.
We believe we can apply a proprietary scientific method to rum and use less wood, energy, and water. Moreover, using AI in rum making and ageing offers considerable advantages, moreover, to get the perfect, right rum from every batch. A rum to be recognised worldwide for superior premium quality from the Christopher Columbus 1477 Distillery®.
Tokenised Rum Casks
For the first time, next year, investors around the globe can buy into the Premium Rum market through fully legally compliant, fractional, tokenised ownership. Powered by blockchain. All tokens are held in their personal wallet. No party has access to their wallet.
Fractional and frictionless investing and ownership of Christopher Columbus Distillery’s Super Premium Rum Casks, using Blockchain transactions secured on the Ethereum blockchain – a decentralised and distributed ledger.
Our Heritage
The first trace of rum distillation in the Western world dates to the 1420s in Madeira, 200 years before the first distilleries in the Americas and Caribbean. More than six centuries later, Christopher Columbus 1477 Distillery® strives to perfect the process’s long-held traditions. Our goal is to grasp every clue about the rum-making culture.
It is only right that the golden nectar – rum comes from the Golden Island of Porto Santo: an island where Christopher Columbus lived and married, the seed for his adventure.
Our objective is to bring soul, substance and storytelling to the fore and create a product of exceptional quality that has taken Incredible skill and craft to produce.
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