From the Ozama River to Your Glass: Big Papi Talks Family, Baseball and a Rum with a Purpose.

November 11th, 2025

A canceled flight and an unexpected overnight stay in Miami turned out to be a blessing. That twist of travel fate opened the door for a relaxed, wide-ranging conversation with baseball legend David Ortiz, a man who has never been shy about speaking his mind, sharing a laugh, or leaning into the bigger picture.

Ortiz kicked things off feeling a little under the weather thanks to what he jokingly referred to as “Miami cold weather,” but the moment the conversation shifted to rum, family and purpose, the energy was unmistakable. This was not a brand pitch. This was a life story poured into a bottle.

Sundays, Family and the First Lessons

The foundation of Ozama Rum traces back to Ortiz’s childhood in the Dominican Republic. Sundays were sacred. His father worked relentlessly during the week, and that one day off was reserved for family, friends, conversation and rum.

“My dad used to work all day, every day,” Ortiz said. “Sunday was the day everybody came together. You learn a lot just watching your parents.”

Those moments shaped how Ortiz views connection and community. The rum was never about excess. It was about slowing down, enjoying people, and appreciating the moment. That philosophy became the heartbeat of Zama Rum.

Why Ozama and Why the Ozama River

The name Ozama comes directly from the Ozama River, one of the most important rivers in the Dominican Republic and one that holds deep personal meaning for Ortiz.

“That river brings back a lot of memories,” he said. “I used to go there with my boys, crab fishing all day. Back then the river was clean. It was beautiful.”

Those memories now come with responsibility. Ozama Rum commits two percent of its income to helping clean and restore the Ozama River. The initiative has already drawn attention from outside organizations interested in joining the effort.

“We’re making noise,” Ortiz said. “That’s a good thing. Something really good is coming.”

Built in the Dominican Republic, Built the Right Way

Ozama Rum is made entirely in the Dominican Republic, with production centered in San Pedro de Macorís. Ortiz was clear that authenticity mattered. This was never going to be a celebrity label slapped onto an existing product.

“It took us about a year and a half,” he said. “We worked with master blender William Chirino to make sure it was premium quality.”

The process was deliberate. Ortiz wanted balance. Smoothness. A touch of sweetness. Just enough spice. Sugar levels were carefully controlled so the rum could be enjoyed without the next-day regret that tends to ruin good memories.

“You don’t want to get tired of drinking it,” he said. “You want something that goes easy.”

A Rum with a Workforce and a Mission

One of the most meaningful elements of the project has nothing to do with what is in the glass. Ozama Rum’s production employs more than 500 single mothers in the Dominican Republic, providing steady income and stability for families.

“This project has so many beautiful things involved,” Ortiz said. “It helps the river. It creates jobs. It helps people take care of their families.”

For Ortiz, that impact is not optional. It is the point.

Retirement Did Not Change the Hustle

Ortiz laughed when asked whether retirement slowed him down.

“I’m a hustler. I’m a visionary,” he said. “I’m never allowed to slow down.”

He spoke openly about choosing opportunities with long-term vision rather than quick wins. That same mindset has guided his charitable work through the David Ortiz Children’s Fund, which has helped facilitate nearly 3,000 heart surgeries and supported more than 17,000 children over the past 17 years.

“Doing things for the community is normal for me,” Ortiz said. “I understand the impact.”

If Ozama Rum Were a Baseball Player

Leave it to Big Papi to answer this question without hesitation.

“That’s a Kevin Millar type of rum,” Ortiz said, laughing. “Energy. Connection. Somebody who brings people together and knows how to say goodbye the right way.”

That description fits. Ozama Rum is designed to be social. It is meant for conversations, celebrations and moments that last longer than the pour.

Holiday Tables and Miami Weather

Despite joking about Miami’s rare cold snap, Ortiz sees Ozama Rum as a perfect holiday companion.

“Thanksgiving is perfect,” he said. “It warms you up in a good way. We controlled the sugar so you don’t punish yourself the next day.”

Spoken like a man who has celebrated plenty of victories and understands recovery.

Baseball Always Finds Its Way In

It would not be a Big Papi conversation without baseball. Ortiz shared that former teammates have already tasted Ozama Rum at events around Fenway Park and the response has been overwhelmingly positive.

Smooth. Balanced. Easy to enjoy.

Leadership also came up, especially when discussing conversations with Derek Jeter and the state of the Miami Marlins.

“You can have all the talent in the world,” Ortiz said. “If you don’t have veteran leadership, you’re not going anywhere.”

Where to Find Ozama Rum

Ozama Rum is available throughout South Florida at Total Wine, Big Daddy Liquors and through home delivery at DrinkOzama.com. Expansion is underway in New York and Boston, and momentum continues to build.

The Bigger Message

Ortiz summed up this chapter of his life with clarity and purpose.

“People spend too much time criticizing everybody else,” he said. “My thing is enjoying family, doing things the right way and sending a positive message.”

Ozama Rum is not just a new venture. It is a reflection of who Big Papi has always been. Loud laughs. Open arms. Deep roots. A long view. And always a seat at the table for anyone willing to show up and share the moment.