Felix Juan Serrallés Nevares
Felix Juan Serrallés Nevares, the fifth-generation of the Rum dynasty and longtime chairman of Puerto Rico’s Destilería Serrallés, has passed away at 83. He was known to family and friends as Don Fao, and served as president and CEO from 1981 until 2017. Under his reign Destilería Serrallés and their cornerstone brand Don Q Rums have been innovators and a driving force in the Rum industry.
The Serrallés family first produced and sold Rum in Puerto Rico in 1865. In 1934 they created their now iconic Don Q brand whose name pays homage to fictional character Don Quixote.
For those who have been fortunate enough to visit Puerto Rico you had likely observed that while Destilería Serrallés is not the island’s largest Rum producer they are the favorite.
We have been great fans of Destilería Serrallés, the Serrallés family, and they Rums they produce. If you want to learn more please check out this BevX story here.
On Monday, May 7, 2018, Destilería Serrallés released this statement:
“It is with deep regret that Destilería Serrallés and its Board of Directors confirms the passing of our Chairman, Felix Juan Serrallés Nevares. “Don Fao” as he was known to close relatives, company employees and friends, was the company’s President and CEO from 1981 until 2017 and a member of the family’s 5th generation. Under his vision and tenure, Destilería Serrallés experienced unparalleled business growth and innovation, solidifying a leadership position for Don Q Rum in Puerto Rico and driving an aggressive expansion into the USA and other international markets. He will be remembered by all at Serrallés, and those who knew him for his noble spirit, his passion for the company and his brilliant intellect. His values and legacy will continue to lead the way for generations to come”, said Roberto Serrallés, family and corporate spokesperson.