The history of Demerara Distillers goes back over 300 years, with the introduction of distillation in Guyana in 1670. In British Guiana there were more than 300 distilleries producing their own unique rums, each identified by a specific brand* that identified its origin. Guyana Distilleries Limited and Diamond Liquors Limited merged to form Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL), in a move to rationalise and consolidate activities. After the merger in 1990, DDL concentrated on consolidating the two previous companies and expanding the distilleries. The Diamond Distillery at that time housed the various stills, equipment and expertise transferred from the no longer operating distilleries. DDL began expanding its operations to further reduce its dependence on bulk rums. The company utilised its bottling expertise and established distribution network. DDL exploited the carbon dioxide gas produced as a by-product of the distillation process and began to compete in the carbonated drinks sector. The company then started to produce its own brand of flavoured SOCA and Diamond Water drinks. In 1991, the Demerara El Dorado range of premium aged rums was launched, starting with the El Dorado 15 Year Old Special Reserve. This rum pioneered the introduction of El Dorado to the world market.Today, Demerara Distillers Limited is one of Guyana's leading manufacturing companies. The company produces and distributes a wide portfolio of local and international spirits and beverages.
