It’s our favourite kind of tourism, and something we hope will continue to grow: rum tourism. The pride of the Caribbean, rum (and rhum) tells the story of the region, from the bad times to the good. And there’s no better way to engage with the history and taste of the Noble Spirit than by visiting the plethora of rum distilleries across the Caribbean. Here are 13 great ones to check out (don’t worry, more to come).
Habitation Clement — Martinique
The most famous distillery in Martinique, it even has an art gallery on property and botanical gardens. It also has the sleekest gift shop of any on this list.
Mount Gay — Barbados
A Santiago de Compostela for rum lovers, Mount Gay is one of the Caribbean’s must-visit sites.
Angostura — Trinidad
This property is worth the trip if only for the (surprising) collection of butterflies. The rum ain’t bad, either — in fact, it’s a Rum Journal favourite. (note – the property requires groups of at least 15 or more, so make sure there are enough interest parties going before you head there).
Rhum Barbancourt — Haiti
One of the top attractions in Haiti, this distillery outside of Port-au-Prince is the home of one of the Caribbean’s oldest rums (and one of its best).
Rhum Damoiseau — Guadeloupe
It isn’t always staffed, so make sure you check in advance, but the trip out to this remote distillery and sugarcane plantation is a real adventure. (And what a rhum they make).
John Watling’s — Bahamas
The newest distillery on this list, John Watling’s is the only distillery in Nassau, and it’s a historic, boutique gem.
Rhum Saint James — Martinique
Rhum Saint James, a favourite of Ernest Hemingway, even has its own Museum of Rhum.
Appleton — Jamaica
Appleton is to Jamaica as Mount Gay is to Barbados. This estate, the history of which dates back more than four centuries, is a wonderful excursion.
Rhum Neisson
Neisson is one of Martinique’s best rhums, and the open, inviting distillery in the area of Le Carbet is a delight — with a real emphasis on tastings.
Brugal – Dominican Republic
The largest rum company in a country that is in love with rum. Brugal’s modern facility is a fascinating place. If you go to Puerto Plata, you have to go here.
Casa Bacardi — Puerto Rico
Bacardi’s now-151-year-long history has seen it travel from Cuba to its current home in Puerto Rico — and the Casa Bacardi Visitor Center in Catano is one of the great rum experiences anywhere.
Rhum Depaz — Martinique
Starting to see a pattern? The Route des Rhums in Martinique is a must for any rum tourist, and Rhum Depaz’ perch in the hills below the volcano of Mont Pelee is a feast for the eyes — and the palate.
Havana Club Museum — Cuba
Perhaps not for our US readers (with some exceptions), but Old Havana’s Havana Club Museum Mecca for rum.