Rum in the News Image Title.
STADES RUM
Stade’s Rum recently launched two limited edition rums from its Distiller’s Vault Collection: Vulcan Two Taps, distilled in a triple-chamber still, and Old Gregg Fusion, a blend of fresh cane juice rum and molasses rum passed through an early 1900s pot still. Founded in 1893 by George Stade, a visionary engineer and distiller, the Stade’s West Indies Rum Distillery has always been a hotbed of innovation. He filed patents, built his own stills, and meticulously documented his experiments. Today, that innovative spirit endures, championed by Managing Director and Historian Andrew Hassell, Master Distiller Don Benn, and Master Blender Alexandre Gabriel. At the heart of the distillery is a locked room, the Distiller’s Vault, a veritable sealed archive filled with blueprints, recipes, handwritten notes, experiment logs, and decades of quiet innovation. These documents now come to life in liquid form, not as historical replicas, but as bold reinterpretations for today’s most curious rum lovers. “These rums are more than just products; they are the continuation of a vision,” explains Don Benn. “Every detail comes from an authentic source. The tools, the ingredients, the methods, we use knowledge that has remained hidden for decades.” Vulcan Two Taps is named as a homage to the Vulcan triple-chamber still, the last original example still in operation in the world and still in service at Stade’s. This extremely rare still was restored in 2018 thanks to Henderson “Digger” Skinner, a Stade’s veteran, who perpetuated a gesture passed down from generation to generation: when the still stalls, you just have to give it two taps with the hose… hence its name. Vulcan Two Taps is bottled at 50.50% ABV. Old Gregg Fusion blends a fresh sugarcane juice rum (made from cane crushed at Stade’s Harper sugar mill) and a molasses rum (made from molasses from Port Vale, the last remaining sugar mill on the island). Both rums are distilled in the Old Gregg pot still, dating back to the early 1900s, then aged and blended in Barbados to reveal the vibrant tension between herbaceous freshness and profound richness. Old Gregg Fusion is bottled at 46% ABV.
https://maisonferrand.com/brand/stades-rum
RUM GEOGRAPHY
The Rum Geography is one of my favorite rum websites. Inspired by his own travel and industry experiences at distilleries and destinations, Ewan Henderson started The Rum Geography in 2023 with research by rum and tech specialists. The platform emerged after discovering a vast, often hidden, rum landscape. The United States alone has hundreds of unique craft distilleries struggling for visibility in the changing digital landscape. To solve this, he and his team built a dedicated place for rum fans to discover rum distilleries and brands, plan their rum adventures, and navigate interactive maps and destination guides. This gives travelers the relevant information to make confident and informed travel decisions. “With travel firmly back and a generational shift of experience-seekers craving slower, more authentic adventures, that support local communities, we bridge that gap for unique itineraries. Imagine the Lonely Planet, but exclusively for rum. In-depth guides and insider tips unlock richer vacation experiences for more convenient travel planning” says Henderson. The website has several levels of information. It starts with seven region, North America, Central America, South America, the Caribbean, Asia/Pacific and African/Indian Ocean. A click on the region takes you to a list of countries. Select a country and a map appears showing rum distilleries. Click a distillery and you get a page that has a location map, basic company information, traveler’s comments and further links for the distillery’s email address, phone number and website. There are also detailed Travel Guides to eight countries and fourteen US states. Ewan just added a list of over ninety rum festivals and rum events for 2026.
https://rumgeography.com/
RUM TAX COVER-OVER HELPS SMALL DISTILLERIES IN PUERTO RICO
Puerto Rico Gov. Jenniffer González Colón announced the signing of agreements that will allow nine small and midsize rum producers to access the federal Rum Tax Cover Over program, expanding benefits previously limited to large manufacturers. The Rum Tax Cover Over is a federal policy that provides returning excise distillers taxes of $13.25 per gallon of rum produced in Puerto Rico back to the Island’s treasury. Until recently, Bacardi, Destilería Serrallés and Club Caribe were the key recipients of the tax cover-over, all legacy brands, with many years on the market. Access to the program for the nine companies covers at least 18 Puerto Rican rum brands across multiple categories and styles. Participating distillers include Destilería Coquí Inc., Caray LLC, Artesano Rum Corp., Laboratorio Clandestino Viequense Inc., Rincón Rum Inc., Rones Superiores de Puerto Rico & Compañía Inc., Sabor Boricua LLC, San Juan Artisan Distillers LLC and Trigo Corp. The Weekly Journal reported that the addition of nine new distilleries will mark the first time that small and medium sized producers will benefit from the federal policy. “For the first time, (small and medium-sized businesses) will begin to receive this rum tax refund. By incorporating these new producers into the program, we will strengthen and expand the base, the production and export base of Puerto Rican rum,” said Governor Jenniffer González Colón. The governor added that over 80% of the rum sold in the United States and the world comes from Puerto Rico, giving the Island the title of the “Rum Capital of the World”. She also added that the industry alone creates 800 jobs and that between 2024 and 2025, rum sales increased by 800,000 gallons, reaching 31.6 million gallons in rum sold. “That’s also a production record, and I’m sure we’re going to break it with the sales of the new rums that are being added,” she added. Of the money that is sent to the Puerto Rican Treasury by the tax cover-over, 46% goes back to the distillers, who will use it to benefit their operations. For Ponce López, the owner of the Sabor Boricua Distillery in Caguas, the returns are a vital step in the growth of his business. “This will help us use that reimbursement to develop our brand, buy equipment, everything related to marketing, and the jobs it can generate. It’s a great opportunity for us to continue growing our market and what we do by hand,” he said. According to Sebastián Negrón Reichard, Secretary of the Department of Economic Development and Commerce (DDEC), “the rates are not fixed but based on contingent of results. These agreements are between the government and the rum producer to reinvest a portion of the tax cover over in production, marketing, infrastructure, and the expansion of these products in the United States, provided and only if the rum is produced in Puerto Rico and sold in the United States. They are not automatic incentives; they are incentives conditioned on the outcome.”
LA MAISON & VELIER
The Magnum Series began in 2021 when La Maison & Velier, in collaboration with the Magnum Press Agency, sought to connect some of the world’s best rum distilleries with some of the world’s best photographers. Founded in 1947 by some of the greatest names in photography, Magnum Press brings together some of the world’s most legendary photojournalists. This year’s release pays tribute to Alex Webb, the American photographer renowned for his vibrant, complex, and intense street photography. A member of Magnum Photos since 1979, Alex Webb is a pioneer of color photography. Unlike the clean lines of traditional photojournalism, Webb’s work is famous for its complexity and chaos. He fills the frame with layers of activity, deep shadows, and saturated, intense colors. For this year’s release, the lineup includes two Jamaican heavyweights, a visit to Martinique, and a surprising entry from Australia. Each label features one of Webb’s “Hot Light” compositions.
BEENLEIGH 8 YEAR - Established in 1884 on the banks of the Albert River in South East Queensland, Beenleigh stands as a monument to Australian rum history. The distillery sources molasses exclusively from the Rocky Point Sugar Mill, the country’s last remaining private mill. Its unique character comes from a dual distillation process: a first pass through a column still followed by a final distillation in ‘The Old Copper,’ a legendary pot still in operation since 1889. Aged in ex-bourbon casks and bottled at a robust 60% ABV, this limited edition captures the unmistakable, bold profile that defines Beenleigh.
CLARENDON 10 YEAR - Located in the south of Jamaica, Clarendon Distillery is a cornerstone of the state-run National Rums of Jamaica. Established in 1949 on the historic grounds of the Monymusk Sugar Estate, the distillery is renowned for its exceptional versatility. Utilizing both pot and column stills, Clarendon masters the full spectrum of molasses-based rums—from the ethereal and light to the heavy and intense—each defined by a unique system of marks. While the majority of its production supplies global brands, rare casks are occasionally secured by independent bottlers. This specific expression, distilled in a column still, is a pristine example of the Clarendon MBS mark.
SAINT JAMES 12 YEAR - Established in 1765, Saint James is the oldest and largest distillery in Martinique, standing as a true pillar of the island’s rum heritage. Following its acquisition by Cointreau, the distillery was relocated in 1974 from Saint-Pierre to Sainte-Marie on the Atlantic coast. Now under the stewardship of La Martiniquaise, Saint James continues to uphold the rigorous standards of the Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée (AOC). Distilled in a traditional Creole column, this expression is a blend of two exceptional vintages—2003 and 2010. It was bottled on-site at 45% ABV, capturing the authentic essence of aged Rhum Agricole.
HAMPDEN 13 YEAR - Established in 1753 in the Trelawny Parish, often cited as the ‘Grand Cru’ of Jamaican rum, Hampden Estate stands as the undisputed icon of the heavy pot still style. For nearly three centuries, the distillery has maintained unchanged production methods to create spirits of unparalleled character. This 2010 vintage holds a special place in history: at the time of its release, it was the oldest fully tropical-aged stock in the estate’s inventory. Bearing the classic LROK mark (Light Rum Owen Kelly, dating back to 1952) with an ester count of 200–400 gr/hlPA, this 13-year-old rum is bottled at 60% ABV, offering a profound depth of flavor and complexity.
Magnum Series releases will be available in both 700ml and impressive 1.5l bottles.
https://www.lmvusa.com/
DESERT DIAMOND DISTILLERY
Speaking of (or writing about) the Ultimate Awards, I was happy to see that a nearby distillery in the small desert town of Kingman, Arizona won a Silver Medal for their 10 Year Gold Miner Barrel Reserve Rum in the 8+ Year category and a Bronze Medal for their Gold Miner Agave Rum in the Flavored Rum category. Who would have thought you could make award winning rum in the middle of the desert?
https://www.desertdiamonddistillery.com/
LA BARONESA GALAPAGOS SINGLE CASK
Dirk Becker’s Rum Depot in Berlin began releasing single cask bottlings under their own brand called Rum Club Private Selection in 2012. The latest offering is La Baronesa Galapagos Single Cask, an exclusive and strictly limited premium rum originating from the captivating Galapagos Islands. Bottled as a single cask, each bottle comes from a single barrel, offering a truly unique tasting experience. Fresh sugarcane juice is used in its production and is distilled twice in a traditional pot still using an elaborate process. The entire aging process takes place on the Galapagos Islands, giving the rum its distinctive character and making it a true ambassador of its origin. Johan Romero, Master Distiller at Romero & Sons, is responsible for creating this masterpiece. He is considered one of the most influential figures in the Ecuadorian rum scene and brings his extensive knowledge and passion to every bottle of La Baronesa. His expertise and dedication guarantee the high quality and exceptional character of this rum. The story of La Baronesa dates back to 2014, when the first production runs took place in a newly built distillery on Santa Cruz, the second largest island in the Galapagos archipelago. Since then, only a very limited number of casks have been produced – today, only eight casks remain, exclusively for the European market. Each bottling is a single cask bottling at cask strength, meaning the rum is neither diluted nor otherwise altered. This uncompromising approach ensures an authentic taste experience and makes each bottle a highly sought-after collector’s item. The name La Baronesa is a tribute to the legendary Baroness Eloise von Wagner Bosquet, whose eccentric life and mysterious disappearance in the 1930s remain part of the fascinating mythology of the Galapagos Islands. Her story lends the rum not only a historical connection but also a mysterious aura that enriches the drinking experience in a special way. Thus, La Baronesa combines the highest level of craftsmanship with a captivating narrative, embodying the heart and soul of the Galapagos Islands in every single bottle. La Boronessa is bottled at 48.8% ABV.
https://www.rum-depot.de/La-Baronesa-Galapagos-Single-Cask/RD12678
HALE’IWA DISTILLING
As a third-generation moonshiner from West Virginia, Nate Sisler, founder of Haleʻiwa Distilling Company, sought to share his family’s rum distilling tradition. His business gives him a chance to pursue that interest and to create a place for the community and other entrepreneurs. Back in 2021, Sisler started laying the foundation for the distillery at the Waialua Sugar Mill on Oʻahu’s North Shore, hoping to foster close-knit connections with farmers and his neighbors. Since opening in 2025, Haleʻiwa Distillery Co. has shared handcrafted products distilled in-house, and provided a stage for local musicians, artists and entrepreneurs to share their work.
The company prides itself on its artisanal approach, where each batch of rum is carefully distilled and aged to perfection. By embracing sustainable practices and supporting local farmers, Haleʻiwa Distilling Company not only creates a premium product but also contributes to the community and environment, reinforcing its commitment to the Aloha spirit. The production of Hawaii Mana Rum is a meticulous process that begins with the selection of high-quality sugarcane sourced from local farms. The sugarcane is processed into molasses, which serves as the base for the rum, and then fermented using a unique blend of yeast that enhances the flavor profile.
https://www.haleiwadistillingco.com/
KULEANA RUM WORKS
Kuleana Rum Works is now offering Farm-to-Glass Tours in chauffeured Sprinter vans every Monday. The Farm to Glass Tour is a unique experience designed for rum enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and those curious about the islands’ storied agricultural roots. The tour, conducted in deluxe Sprinter vans for ultimate comfort, starts and ends at the Kuleana Rum Works Experience Center in Queens’ Marketplace located in the Waikoloa Beach Resort. The first stop will be at the Kuleana Rum Works Farm, near Hāwī, North Kohala. Step onto their lush farm and hear the captivating tale of kō, Hawaii’s original sugarcane, brought by Wayfinders as a “canoe plant” over a millennium ago. Discover how they cultivated nearly 30 distinct Hawaiian varieties, shaping the island’s agricultural heritage. Witness their harvesting process and savor a glass of freshly pressed wai kō (sugarcane juice), straight from the source. Next stop is at the Kuleana Rum Works Distillery in Kawaihae. Venture behind the scenes at their state-of-the-art distillery. Learn the art and science of rum-making and see why Kuleana Rum is recognized among the world’s best. From fermentation to bottling, experience the craftsmanship that sets Kuleana apart. Then, it is back to the Queens’ Marketplace where you will unwind and indulge in a guided tasting of their four award-winning, additive-free rums. Explore the nuanced flavors and rich heritage of each spirit in the vibrant atmosphere of the Kuleana Rum Shack. https://kuleanarum.com/
KŌ HANA HAWAIIAN AGRICOLE RUM
Kō Hana has opened their new tasting experience at the Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center with House of Mana Up and Mānoa Chocolate, a shared space celebrating Hawaii’s finest craft, flavor and artistry. You can choose between two experiences:
Reserve Hawaiian Agricole Rum & Estate Chocolate Pairing - Savor Kō Hana’s signature Hawaiian Agricole Rums alongside artisan chocolate from Mānoa Chocolate, a pairing designed to highlight flavor, terroir, and craftsmanship.
Hawaiian Cocktail & Chocolate Pairing - Savor a thoughtfully curated pairing featuring Kō Hana Ready to Drink Cocktails and rich, handcrafted chocolate from Mānoa Chocolate.
Both options celebrate Hawaiʻi-made craft, locally grown ingredients, and intentional flavor pairings, no advance selection required.
https://www.kohanarum.com/
