Cuba is one of the key islands in the Caribbean, in terms of population (more than 11 million people), geographical size and economic power. The nation consists of several archipelagos and the main island which they surround, La Isla de la Juventud ('the island of youth'). The Cuban mainland is long and thin, measuring just over 700 miles (1125km) from east to west and about one quarter as much from north to south at the widest point.
The Cuban capital of Havana lies at a latitude of 23 degrees north, right on the Tropic of Cancer. This places the island comfortably outside the Wine Belt (the latitudes of 32 and 51 degrees, between which quality viniculture is practicable). Very little wine is produced there, although at least one winery produces Cuban wine in very small quantities. Its grapes of choice are Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Cuba's climate is well suited to the cultivation of tobacco and sugar, two of its key exports since the Spanish colonized the island in the 16th century; the nation is well known for its cigars and rum. Cuban cigars have a prestigious worldwide reputation, occupying a similar position in the world of luxury consumables as Scotch single malt whisky and fine French wine.
Cuban rum is also highly regarded. The Bacardi and Havana Club brands were both established on the island (in 1862 and 1878 respectively), and have grown to become internationally recognized names. Although Bacardi (whose headquarters are now in Miami and Barbados) is made under license in various countries around the world, the company has emphasized its Cuban heritage in recent years. The historic Bacardi Building in Havana is now used by the producers of Caney rum. Havana Club is still produced in Cuba (in the town of Santa Cruz del Norte, just east of Havana), and is jointly owned by the Cuban government and Pernod Ricard.
