Blackwell Rum Supports The GoldenEye Foundation And Here’s Why
GoldenEye and The GoldenEye Foundation Are Intrinsically Linked, Thanks To One Man: Our Founder, Chris Blackwell
Image credit: Richard Stow
The name “GoldenEye” is synonymous with James Bond. For some, it’s a classic novel. For others, Pierce Brosnan’s first and arguably the best Bond film. For others still, it’s an all-time classic video game. Many who grew up with the game spent countless hours playing the first-person shooter and can conjure the theme song in a snap. It’s undeniably iconic.
Whatever GoldenEye means to you today, its origin story begins at a compound on the North Coast of Jamaica, where Ian Fleming wrote all 14 of his Bond books. The home that Fleming built overlooking Oracabessa Bay was named “GoldenEye.” [1]
Ian Fleming, along with the likes of Bob Marley and Blackwell Rum’s founder Chris Blackwell, are some of Jamaica’s favorite sons. They’ve all been greatly influenced by the island itself, and in turn, have helped to spread Jamaica around the world. Bob through his music, Chris Blackwell through his rum company and record label, and Fleming most famously for Bond, James Bond.
When Ian Fleming first visited the Island nation in 1943, he swore to himself that he would return, buy land, build a little homestead, and work on his writing. He followed those steps exactly, and as they say—the rest is history. [1]
Fleming fell in love with a patch of land that overlooked Oracabessa Bay, complete with its own private beach. He lived out most of his remaining years at Goldeneye, which unfortunately there weren’t very many of. He passed in 1964, and the Bond franchise was entrusted to new writers and film directors. Flemings's iconic character has stood the test of time, best demonstrated by the new movies and books that are still being developed to this day. [2]
In 1970, the GoldenEye residence was put up for sale, and through the urging of his mother (a friend of Flemings), Chris Blackwell ended up becoming the new owner of Fleming’s patch of paradise in 1976. [1&3] Fortunately, the new owner is someone who also has a deep love and respect for Jamaica, which is why you will find the GoldenEye compound maintains much of its original charm and natural beauty today. If you visit Jamaica, you can stay there, and find out for yourself.
Over time, Blackwell also added 25 acres to the 15-acre expanse of paradise. [3] The property is still largely hidden from the main road and today is a patchwork of villas, cottages, and beach huts—first built one at a time by Chris—which now spread in and around charming nooks and coves that lead down to the sea. There’s a restaurant, beach bar, spa, on-site activities, and other amenities included in modern GoldenEye as well. [4]
Beyond Fleming’s intention of preserving the soul of the original GoldenEye homestead, it’s become the home base for the GoldenEye Foundation, whose mission is “to create programs that positively impact the quality of life of the people of Oracabessa, its environs, and the Oracabessa Bay.” [3]
Image credit: Richard Stow
The Goldeneye Foundation, founded by Chris Blackwell in 1997 as the philanthropic arm of the estate, is staffed by a local team that works hard to make a positive impact through environmental and community initiatives, as well as clean-ups and other events. One of their biggest events of the year, The Oracabessa Marlin Tournament is coming up in October! [3]
The Goldeneye Foundation is supported by the local community, volunteers and funders from all over the world, and Chris Blackwell's other successful endeavors. Proceeds from guests enjoying the GoldenEye compound benefit the foundation, as does purchasing Blackwell Rum.
A portion of Blackwell Rum’s proceeds annually goes to support both the people and the planet through the GoldenEye Foundation's essential work. [5] GoldenEye is an alluring and indelible part of Jamaica’s history. Not only does GoldenEye welcome international guests in a truly memorable setting, but it’s companion Foundation helps to ensure that it will be a beautiful place nestled into a well-supported community for years to come.
