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Empowering Entrepreneurs: Insights, Strategies, and Success Stories to Fuel Your Business Journey

Sonrisa: Elevating Rum, Empowering Puerto Rico, and Spreading Smiles

3 min readJan 16, 2025

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Under the golden rays of the Puerto Rican sun, a new legacy is being crafted. Sonrisa, a super-premium rum, is more than a beverage — it’s a celebration of Puerto Rican culture, a commitment to excellence, and a lifeline for small businesses on the island. Inspired by the warmth, generosity, and confidence of Puerto Rico, Sonrisa is redefining what it means to enjoy fine spirits while giving back to the community that makes it all possible.

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A Taste of Puerto Rican Spirit

Sonrisa embodies the vibrant soul of Puerto Rico — its art, music, laughter, and deeply rooted sense of community. And most of all, its flavoral spices! Available in three distinct expressions, this premium rum is as versatile as it is exceptional, perfect for sipping neat like a fine whiskey or tequila or blending seamlessly into your favorite cocktails. The name “Sonrisa,” meaning “smile,” invites the world to embrace the joy and warmth of Puerto Rico with every sip.

“We say ‘Sonrisa, por favor,’ not just as a bar call but as a heartfelt request to share the smiling spirit of Puerto Rico…”

Co-Founder Shareef Malnik.

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Sonrisa

Not Just A Celebrity Brand

While Sonrisa boasts co-ownership by notable Puerto Rican icons Fat Joe, Yandel, and MLB star Martín Maldonado, it stands apart from typical celebrity-driven ventures. The brand’s mission transcends fame, aiming to elevate rum to rival the finest whiskies and tequilas. “It’s not just about selling a world-class rum,” says Orlando Baeza, Sonrisa’s Chief Marketing Officer. “It’s about giving back to Puerto Rico.

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Through its foundation, From Puerto Rico, For Puerto Rico, Sonrisa donates $1 for every bottle sold to support Puerto Rican small businesses. These funds help the island’s entrepreneurs recover from the long-lasting effects of Hurricane Maria, the COVID-19 pandemic, and ongoing economic challenges. This initiative reflects a deep commitment to creating lasting change for Puerto Rico and its people.

Crafted With Purpose, Delivered With Care

Sonrisa is a product of passion, expertise, and an unwavering dedication to quality. Headquartered in Miami, produced in Puerto Rico, and bottled in the U.S., the brand embodies the spirit of collaboration and excellence. Founded by hospitality entrepreneur Shareef Malnik and award-winning marketer Jae Goodman, alongside Orlando Baeza, Sonrisa is positioned as a premium rum brand that bridges heritage and innovation.

Now available on GoPuff in Miami and with nationwide distribution by Southern Glazer’s Wine and Spirits, Sonrisa is making it easier than ever for consumers to experience its premium offerings.

“We’re particularly excited to offer customers the convenience of ordering directly from our website, with delivery right to their door!” shares Malnik.

From Puerto Rico, For Puerto Rico

Sonrisa’s mission goes beyond crafting exceptional rum. Every bottle sold contributes to a brighter future for Puerto Rican small businesses, fostering resilience and economic growth. This dedication to community empowerment makes Sonrisa more than a premium rum — it’s a symbol of hope and a testament to the power of giving back.

Whether you’re savoring it neat or mixing it into your favorite cocktail, Sonrisa invites you to celebrate life, Puerto Rican culture, and the joy of sharing a smile. For more information and to order online, visit Sonrisa’s website and join the movement to elevate rum and uplift Puerto Rico — one smile at a time.

Discover Sonrisa today. Raise your glass to quality, community, and the resilient spirit of Puerto Rico!

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Business Endeavors

Published in Business Endeavors

Empowering Entrepreneurs: Insights, Strategies, and Success Stories to Fuel Your Business Journey

Minnee Martinez

Written by Minnee Martinez

Minnee Martinez is a powerhouse in journalism and media, with over a decade of experience shaping stories and strategies that resonate across industries.