BACARDÍ 151 rum is not outlawed. It was discontinued by Bacardi in 2016, but it is still legal to produce and sell high-proof spirits like 151 rum. However, the decision to discontinue BACARDÍ 151 rum was made by Bacardi due to various reasons.
One of the main reasons for discontinuing BACARDÍ 151 rum was its high alcohol content. BACARDÍ 151 rum was an overproof rum, meaning it had an alcohol content of 75.5% by volume, which is significantly higher than regular rums that typically have an alcohol content of around 40%. The high alcohol content made BACARDÍ 151 rum extremely strong and potentially dangerous if not consumed responsibly. It was often used in cocktails as a float or as a flambé ingredient, but its potency made it a challenge to handle for many bartenders.
Another reason for discontinuing BACARDÍ 151 rum was changing consumer preferences and market trends. In recent years, there has been a shift towards craft and premium spirits, with consumers seeking more nuanced flavors and higher quality products. BACARDÍ 151 rum, with its intense, fiery flavor, did not align with these evolving preferences. Bacardi likely decided to focus their resources on producing and promoting other products that better resonated with the changing market.
Furthermore, the decision to discontinue BACARDÍ 151 rum could also be attributed to the increased scrutiny on high-proof spirits and their potential risks. Although BACARDÍ 151 rum was not specifically targeted, there has been a growing concern over the availability and consumption of extremely high-alcohol spirits. By discontinuing BACARDÍ 151 rum, Bacardi may have been proactive in addressing these concerns and aligning with responsible drinking practices.
It is worth noting that the discontinuation of BACARDÍ 151 rum does not mean that there are no other overproof rums available in the market. There are still other brands that produce overproof rums, offering consumers the option to enjoy high-alcohol content spirits if they choose to do so.
BACARDÍ 151 rum was discontinued by Bacardi due to its high alcohol content, changing consumer preferences, and the evolving market dynamics. The decision was likely influenced by concerns over responsible drinking and a shift towards craft and premium spirits. However, it is important to remember that high-proof spirits like 151 rum are legal to produce and sell, and there are still other options available for those who enjoy the intensity of overproof rums.