COMPAÑÍA LICORERA DE NICARAGUA
NICARAGUA
Compañía Licorera de Nicaragua (CLN), founded in 1937, is a cornerstone of Nicaragua’s spirits industry and the producer of the internationally renowned Flor de Caña rum. Located in Chichigalpa, near the fertile volcanic plains of the San Cristóbal volcano, CLN was established with the goal of creating high-quality distilled spirits using Nicaragua’s abundant sugarcane. From its early days, the company sought to blend tradition, innovation, and craftsmanship into its production process.
During the 1950s, CLN made a pivotal decision to begin aging its rum in white oak barrels, a move that would set it apart in the region and define the future of its flagship brand. This aging process contributed to the development of Flor de Caña’s distinct character — smooth, rich, and complex — and helped the rum gain recognition both locally and internationally
Throughout the second half of the 20th century, CLN expanded its operations and began exporting its rums globally. Flor de Caña became synonymous with quality, winning numerous awards at international spirits competitions. Its reputation was built not only on flavor but also on the company’s integrity and attention to detail across the entire production chain — from planting and harvesting sugarcane to fermentation, distillation, aging, and bottling.
What makes Compañía Licorera de Nicaragua particularly unique is its vertically integrated operation. Few rum producers in the world manage every aspect of production, which allows CLN to maintain strict quality control and ensure consistency in every bottle. Moreover, the company has long been committed to sustainability and social responsibility. It has achieved carbon neutral certification, uses 100% renewable energy in its distillation process, and meets Fair Trade standards — a rarity in the spirits industry.
CLN has also invested in community development, education, and healthcare initiatives, especially for workers and families in the Chichigalpa region. Despite facing challenges over the years, including health-related controversies linked to sugarcane work, the company has responded by implementing stricter safety measures and enhancing labor practices.
Today, Compañía Licorera de Nicaragua continues to be a source of national pride. It stands as a leader not only in rum production but also in ethical business practices, setting an example in the global spirits industry while promoting the culture and heritage of Nicaragua.
