ROTA Spirits 19, a premium distilled Korean liquor, will be available at several retail stores on island by November of this year, said Yong Chul Jang, CEO of M&E Enterprises Inc., its distributor.
Jang describes his product as “sophisticated,” with a “delicate and floral flavor.”
“Our spirits are produced differently, using patented complex brewing and distillation equipment,” he said. “We bottle the spirits after a double distillation and proper aging process. The liquor exudes sweetness and a floral aroma, with a slight fruity lime scent that remains long after drinking.”
He said Rota Spirits 19 is “beyond soju” in terms of taste and smoothness, and is 19% alcohol by volume.
He suggests mixing Rota Spirits 19 with ice, tonic water, and lime juice or enjoying it with cola, ginger ale or juice. However, he said it’s smooth enough to be enjoyed neat or straight up.
Jang, who lives on Saipan, said he has visited Rota many times and “fell in love” with its natural beauty. He said Rota is “calm and relaxing” and he wanted a drink that captured those same elements.
In the Marianas, he said, Guam and Saipan get the most attention while Tinian is currently being developed for the U.S. military. Jang hopes that Rota will also get its share of attention and recognition.
His intent is to create a drink that is “inspired by” the beauty and uniqueness of Rota, and will spread the island’s name through sales of the beverage. He is currently in negotiations to create an “exclusive distributorship” agreement with a Saipan liquor wholesaler in order to cover sales in the CNMI, Guam and Palau. He expects this to be finalized by October.
He said he has also confirmed an order of 50,000 bottles to ship out to the U.S. East Coast by November.
“I hope to make the brand name spread so more people can know what is Rota, and where is Rota,” Jang said.
It is his goal to eventually use a portion of the sales proceeds to establish a scholarship program for Rota residents. He also plans to use Rota sweet potatoes as an ingredient in Rota Spirits 19.
Currently, Rota Spirits 19 is available only at Latte Store on Alaihai Avenue in Garapan, behind T-Galleria.
Rota Spirits, a premium distilled Korean liquor, will be ready for local distribution by November.
Rota Spirits will be distributed by M&E Enterprises Inc.
