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Jamaican Rum Distilleries
6 Distilleries For World-Class Jamaican Rums

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appleton_estate_sign.pngJamaican Rum Distilleries | Appleton Estate

by Venesha Johnson | Associate Writer

Jamaican rum is definitely among the best in the world, don’t you think? We started making rum here in the 1650s when English settlers began distilling rum from fermented sugarcane. Which makes us think, what about now? Where are we getting our rum from? Let’s talk about the rum distilleries here in Jamaica.

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How many rum distilleries are there in Jamaica?

There was a time when Jamaica was home to about 150 distilleries. As technology developed, we saw a sharp decline in distilleries, but the quantity and quality of rum produced remained high. Shockingly, we only have 6 distilleries now. They are:

1. Appleton Estate

jamaican_rum_appletonJamaican Rum - Appleton Estate

Appleton Estate, situated in the Nassau Valley, St. Elizabeth, is not just a distillery; it's a historical gem. Dating back to 1749, a walk through this estate will probably leave you feeling as though you have stepped through a time capsule. This is completely possible since they offer one of the most popular rum tours on the island.

Appleton embraces the classic pot still method, a nod to the origins of the distillery. But here's where the innovation kicks in. They've got a state-of-the-art blending facility, ensuring that each bottle of Appleton rum is a meticulously crafted masterpiece.

2. Innswood

Innswood, located in Spanish Town, strikes a harmonious balance between tradition and modernity. As you stroll through the distillery, you'll notice the coexistence of pot and column stills – a testament to their commitment to versatility.

The estate, with its roots reaching back to the 18th century, has a unique charm. A living, breathing museum showcasing Jamaican rum-making, history whispers through every cask and still.

Innswood's fusion of old-school techniques and contemporary methods results in rums that honour the past while embracing the innovations of the present.

3. Hampden Estate

hampden_estate_sign.jpegHampden Estate

Now, if you ever find yourself at Hampden Estate in Trelawny, be prepared for a sensory overload. Hampden is proud of its heritage, and it shows. The estate boasts some of the oldest and most unique stills in the business, contributing to the distinct character of their rums.

But, what sets Hampden apart is the commitment to traditional fermentation. The dunder pits, where leftover distillation residues ferment, are like the beating heart of the funky flavours that make Hampden rums so iconic.

4. Clarendon

Clarendon, nestled in the eponymous parish, is not just a distillery; it's a powerhouse. Being part of the National Rums of Jamaica consortium, Clarendon plays a vital role in shaping the backbone of Jamaican rum.

The distillery is a symphony of copper stills, fermentation tanks, and ageing warehouses. It's a place where precision meets volume.

Clarendon's rums, often used as key components in various blends, showcase the versatility and reliability of the distillery. It's not just about making rum; it's about crafting the essential building blocks for a myriad of expressions.

5. Worthy Park Estate

worthy_park_estateWorthy Park Estate Brands

Worthy Park, in St. Catherine, is more than just a distillery; it's a complete rum ecosystem. From cultivating their sugarcane to distilling and bottling, Worthy Park is a farm-to-bottle experience that showcases the full journey of rum production.

Walking through the estate, you'll see sugarcane fields swaying in the Caribbean breeze, leading to a modern distillery where innovation meets tradition. Worthy Park's pot-still rums are a testament to the meticulous care taken at every step of the process. It's a place where the connection to the land and the commitment to quality result in rums that embody the essence of Jamaica.

6. Long Pond

Long Pond, with roots dating back to the 18th century, is a distillery that wears its heritage proudly. Located in Trelawny, the estate is a testament to the enduring artistry of Jamaican rum-making.

The pot stills at Long Pond are like silent storytellers, narrating tales of centuries gone by. It's a place where time seems to slow down, allowing the rum to age gracefully and develop those rich, complex flavours. Long Pond's commitment to traditional methods is a nod to the roots of Jamaican rum, making it a pilgrimage site for rum enthusiasts seeking an authentic experience.

What is the Oldest Distillery in Jamaica?

Since 1749, Appleton Estate has been honing the art of rum distillation, making it the oldest distillery operating in continuous operation in Jamaica. One of the greatest rums in the world is Appleton Estate Rum, which has won accolades and honours since 1862.

Situated in Nassau Valley of St. Elizabeth, their distillery is a clean, eco-friendly establishment that manages every facet of production through meticulous sugarcane planting and the utilisation of the land's inherent spring water resources.

They produce rums aged in oak barrels for at least four years, as well as a unique 50-year-old rum that was created to commemorate Jamaica's 50 years of independence.

Just 800 bottles of the 21-year-old rum were released into the market, so you'll be lucky to even get a chance to take a sip. Luckily their other rums are quite immaculate as well and I believe every fine rum enthusiast needs to own an easily accessible bottle. Warm spicy tones, citrus, and deep vanilla flavors is what you can look forward to.

Jamaican rum distilleries offer more than just spirits; they provide a glimpse into our history, culture, and passion for craftsmanship. Whether you're a seasoned rum enthusiast or a curious newcomer, exploring the diverse offerings of Jamaican distilleries promises a memorable and flavorful journey.

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Watch Video! Hampden Estate Rum Tour

Now, just before you go, we did a tour of the Hampden Estate that we'd like to share with you.

Return to Jamaican Rum Cocktails from Jamaican Rum Distilleries
Return to My Island Jamaica Homepage from Jamaican Rum Distilleries

References & Sources For Jamaican Rum Distilleries

  1. Appleton Estate Rum: Jamaican Spirits & Cuisine: Visit Jamaica (no date) Jamaica Tourism Board. Available at: https://www.visitjamaica.com/discover-jamaica/cuisine/spirits/appleton-estate-rum/#:~:text=Appleton%20Estate%20is%20the%20oldest,best%20rums%20in%20the%20world (Accessed: 19 November 2023).
  2. Long Pond (2023) Single Cask Rum. Available at: https://singlecaskrum.com/countries/jamaica/long-pond/ (Accessed: 19 November 2023).

Jamaican Rum Distilleries | Written: November 19, 2023

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