David Ortiz Launches Ozama Rum to Celebrate Dominican Heritage and Support Local Communities

Baseball Hall of Famer David “Big Papi” Ortiz has entered the premium spirits market with the launch of Ozama Rum, a brand that pays tribute to his Dominican heritage. The new rum is named after the Ozama River, a landmark from Ortiz’s childhood in Santo Domingo, and aims to showcase the best of Dominican craftsmanship while supporting local communities.

Ozama Rum is produced entirely in the Dominican Republic, using 100% Dominican sugarcane. Every step of production—from growing and harvesting the cane to distillation, aging, and bottling—takes place in the country. The rum carries the official Denomination of Origin “Ron Dominicano,” which certifies its authenticity and adherence to national standards.

The brand’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its operations. Ozama Rum runs on 97% green energy and repurposes byproducts from production. In addition, 2% of annual proceeds are reinvested into environmental and community initiatives focused on the Ozama River and surrounding areas. This approach reflects Ortiz’s dedication to giving back to his homeland, a value that has defined much of his post-baseball career.

Production is overseen by Williams Chirinos, a respected figure in Caribbean rum with more than three decades of experience. Chirinos played a key role in shaping the Dominican Rum Standard and brings his expertise to Ozama’s lineup, which features three core expressions at 40% ABV.

Ozama Blanco is designed for cocktails, offering bright flavors with notes of almond, coconut, and a touch of citrus. Ozama Añejo is aged for at least one year in American white oak barrels, resulting in a profile marked by coconut and vanilla with a balanced sweetness. The Gran Añejo expression is more complex, featuring aromas of wood and vanilla layered with coconut and dried fruit, intended to be enjoyed neat or over ice.

Each bottle contains 700 milliliters and retails for $30 for Blanco and Añejo, while Gran Añejo is priced at $45. The rum is distributed in cases of six bottles.

Ortiz’s move into the spirits industry follows a trend among athletes leveraging their fame to launch lifestyle brands. However, Ozama distinguishes itself through its focus on authenticity and social impact. Ortiz has stated that his goal was not only to create a high-quality product but also to honor his roots and contribute positively to the Dominican Republic.

The launch comes at a time when consumers are increasingly interested in spirits with clear provenance and ethical practices. By combining traditional methods with modern sustainability efforts, Ozama Rum seeks to redefine what it means to be a Dominican rum on the global stage.

Ozama Rum is now available in select markets across the United States, with plans for broader distribution later this year. The brand’s arrival adds another chapter to Ortiz’s legacy—one that extends beyond baseball fields into the world of fine spirits and community development.