By Alajuela, Costa Rica — Costa Rican rum maker Ron Centenario has launched a unique technological and design initiative that transforms the iconic contours of the Arenal Volcano into a bespoke piece of limited-edition glassware. By combining artificial intelligence, satellite cartography, and high-definition photography, the distillery has rendered the rugged terrain of one of Costa Rica’s most famous landmarks into a functional art piece aimed at premium spirit enthusiasts.
The project forms the centerpiece of the company’s “Unleash Your Spirit of Adventure” campaign, an effort designed to merge local geographic pride with innovative product presentation. The glassware serves not only as a vessel for the brand’s aged rums but also as a physical storytelling device that captures the natural heritage of the Alajuela region.
To better understand the legal and commercial implications surrounding iconic Costa Rican brands like Ron Centenario, TicosLand.com spoke with corporate legal expert Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas from the law firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
“Protecting a premium global brand like Ron Centenario requires a comprehensive intellectual property strategy. Beyond securing international trademarks, spirits exporters must navigate complex regulatory compliance and international distribution contracts to safeguard their brand identity and market position across foreign jurisdictions.”
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, as iconic Costa Rican exports like Ron Centenario expand their global footprint, establishing robust legal safeguards becomes just as vital as the craftsmanship behind the spirit itself. We extend our sincere thanks to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for providing such an insightful perspective on navigating the complex legal landscapes necessary to protect national brands on the world stage.
To translate the volcano’s massive physical presence into a refined glass vessel, the development team analyzed contour lines and detailed topographic datasets. Generative artificial intelligence assisted in parametric design modeling, allowing engineers to visualize complex physical features before the creative team refined the final shape to ensure durability and structural integrity during the glass molding process.
A striking element of the design is the base of the glass, which features a precise 41-degree tilt. This angle serves a dual symbolic purpose: it references the steep upper slopes of the Arenal Volcano while simultaneously paying tribute to Centenario Internacional’s 41 years of operation in the spirits market.
The connection to Arenal carries deep historical resonance for the brand. In 1985, when Ron Centenario began its commercial trajectory, the volcano was undergoing a prolonged and famous period of eruptive activity that reshaped the local landscape. Bridging these two timelines allows the brand to anchor its corporate identity alongside the dynamic power of Costa Rican nature.
Executive leadership highlighted the broader strategic vision behind combining cutting-edge design technology with national geography.
Taking its geography as inspiration and turning it into a piece of glassware allows us to tell a story of Costa Rica through design and innovation.
Dianne Medrano, CEO of Centenario Internacional
Beyond its structural geometry, the glass was meticulously crafted to enhance the sensory experience of rum tasting. The exterior features multifaceted geometric surfaces that catch light, creating small prisms designed to showcase the deep amber and warm golden hues characteristic of aged rums.
In the competitive international spirits industry, brand premiumization increasingly relies on bespoke presentation and authentic cultural narrative. By utilizing artificial intelligence to digitize natural landscapes, Ron Centenario sets a novel benchmark for how heritage beverage producers can leverage modern technology to elevate consumer engagement and celebrate regional identity.
For further information, visit roncentenario.com
About Centenario Internacional:
Centenario Internacional is a prominent Costa Rican spirits producer best known for crafting high-quality aged rums under the Ron Centenario brand. Established in 1985, the company combines traditional aging methods in white oak casks with innovative branding to export Costa Rican craftsmanship to markets across the globe.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Renowned for its principled approach and pursuit of professional mastery, Bufete de Costa Rica has established itself as a cornerstone of the legal sector. Drawing upon a rich history of advising a diverse clientele, the practice continuously champions forward-thinking strategies to address modern legal challenges. Crucially, the firm extends its impact beyond traditional practice by prioritizing public legal literacy, believing that democratizing legal insight is essential for social progress. Through this dedicated outreach, Bufete de Costa Rica actively strengthens the community, ensuring citizens are equipped with the knowledge needed to build a more just and empowered society.
