St Lucia Rum Tour Experience
Saint Lucia’s rum tours provide visitors with an immersive way to experience its culture, history and flavors, all distilled into a glass of liquid gold. Whether you are a rum aficionado or a curious traveler, exploring Saint Lucia’s rum scene offers a delightful adventure.
A Brief History of Rum in Saint Lucia
The history of rum in Saint Lucia dates back to the 18th century when the island’s economy thrived on sugar plantations. As sugar production flourished, so did the byproduct of sugarcane—molasses—which became the foundation for rum distillation. Over the centuries, Saint Lucian rum evolved into an art form, blending traditional methods with innovative techniques to produce world-class spirits.
St. Lucia Distillers Group of Companies
Nestled in the lush and picturesque Roseau Valley of St. Lucia, the vibrant agricultural community of Jacmel is home to the St. Lucia Distillers Group of Companies. This historic distillery crafts world-class rums and liqueurs using methods that have remained as timeless as the surrounding environment for over a century. This distillery is responsible for producing some of the island’s most celebrated rums, including Chairman’s Reserve, Bounty Rum and Admiral Rodney.
Rhythm of Rum Tour
A visit to St. Lucia Distillers offers a comprehensive rum experience through the Rhythm of Rum Tour. Guests can tour the facility to learn about the intricate process of rum production, from sugarcane harvesting to fermentation, distillation, aging and blending. The highlight of the tour is undoubtedly the tasting session, where you can sample an array of rums, each with unique flavor profiles ranging from rich and spicy to smooth and fruity.
Chairman’s Reserve is one of the island’s flagship rums, known for its exceptional quality and complex flavors. The Chairman’s Reserve Rum Experience offers a deep dive into the brand’s history and craftsmanship. Visitors can explore the aging cellars, where barrels of rum mature to perfection, and participate in a blending workshop to create their custom rum blend. This hands-on activity provides a memorable souvenir of your Saint Lucian adventure.
The adventure begins in a reconstructed ship’s hold, where a short video offers an engaging introduction to the story of rum, its significance to the island, and the distillery’s family roots. From there, guests step into the heart of the distillery to witness the fascinating process of rum-making, which exudes its own unique rhythm and flavor. From the dark, aromatic molasses vats to the open fermentation tanks, visitors are encouraged to use all their senses to fully appreciate this art form.
The tour continues through the distillery’s centerpiece: stunning copper stills, where the transformation of rum unfolds. Guests can see and smell the spirit as it evolves at various stages, culminating in the intriguing process of casking. The rum is aged in oak barrels that once housed bourbon or port, infusing the spirit with rich colors and complex flavors inspired by its past lives.
St. Lucia’s rums and liqueurs embody the spirit and passion that have defined the island’s history. The Rhythm of Rum tour concludes with a look at the Carnival experience. The Carnival Interpretation Centre is surrounded by colorful costumes and the lively melodies of steel pan music, along with the history of carnival.
The grand finale awaits at the rum-tasting buffet, where guests can explore the distillery’s impressive selection for a St Lucia rum tasting to find their perfect match. Whether it’s a premium sipping rum, a creamy liqueur or a bold spiced rum you can sip and decide which one or two you prefer.
The Art of Rum Tasting
Rum tasting is an art that involves engaging all your senses. On a Saint Lucia rum tour, you’ll learn how to appreciate the nuances of each spirit:
- Appearance: Observe the color and clarity of the rum, which can range from pale gold to deep amber, influenced by the aging process and type of barrel used.
- Aroma: Swirl the glass gently and inhale the bouquet of scents, from caramel and vanilla to tropical fruits and spices.
- Taste: Take a small sip and let the rum coat your palate, noting the balance of flavors and the texture.
- Finish: Pay attention to the aftertaste and how long the flavors linger.
Rum and Cuisine Pairing
Saint Lucian cuisine, with its bold flavors and tropical ingredients, pairs beautifully with rum. Many rum tours incorporate food tastings, allowing visitors to experience the harmony between local dishes and spirits. For instance, a sip of spiced rum complements the heat of jerk chicken, while a sweet, aged rum pairs perfectly with coconut desserts.
Beyond the Distilleries
While the distilleries are the centerpiece of rum tours, Saint Lucia offers additional opportunities to celebrate its rum culture. Beach bars, resorts, and local restaurants often serve creative rum-based cocktails, such as the famous rum punch or piña colada. Many establishments also host mixology classes where you can learn to craft your signature cocktail using Saint Lucian rum.
Tips for an Enjoyable Rum Tour
- Pace Yourself: With so many rums to sample, it’s essential to pace yourself to fully enjoy the experience.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water between tastings to cleanse your palate and stay refreshed.
- Ask Questions: The guides are passionate about their craft and are happy to share their knowledge.
- Take Notes: If you’re a rum enthusiast, jot down your impressions of different rums for future reference.
- Buy a Bottle (or Two): Most distilleries offer exclusive rums that make excellent souvenirs or gifts.
Rum Cocktails
Enjoy Saint Lucia rum in a cocktail or two!
