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Casa bacardÍ

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Welcome to casa bacardÍ

Welcome to Casa BACARDÍ, our incredible brand home located in the heart of Cataño, Puerto Rico. The world’s largest rum distillery, Casa BACARDÍ celebrates our rich heritage, rum process, exciting classes, and more.

Welcome to the home of rum.

things to do

tours & experiences

legacy tour

Discover the BACARDÍ family legacy and the history of the world’s most-awarded rum.

Rum tasting tour

Try BACARDÍ’s rums and get a lesson in how to taste rum like 
a pro.

mixology class

Master some cool bar tricks and skills in this interactive class.

founder’s experience

Enjoy an exclusive multisensory experience guided by our brand ambassadors.

where it all began

Casa BACARDÍ opened in 1962, after we chose 
Puerto Rico as part of our decision to begin producing rum outside of Cuba for the first time ever. Christened by Puerto Rico’s governor as ‘the Cathedral of 
Rum,’ Casa BACARDÍ helped us grow beyond our 
wildest dreams.

what’s on offer

Get involved.

We’ve opened the doors of our brand home to bring you closer to the rum products you love, giving you an exclusive look into the workings behind your favourite drink. Part museum, part sensory experience, we invite you to discover a side of BACARDÍ you’ve never seen before.

sustainability in action

At the core of our mission lies a commitment to sustainability. Many of our exciting green initiatives unfold right where the magic happens – our brand home. Click to discover more about the projects we’re proud of at Casa BACARDÍ.

Biodiversity

Pollinator gardens awards.

Responsible sourcing

Good sources.

Cleaner energy

Powering up.

Yes, except for major holidays and private events.

Yes! You can grab a bite from our delicious food kiosk, do some shopping at the BACARDÍ Store, or just relax and enjoy the breathtaking views while sipping on a delicious and refreshing cocktail at the Pavilion.

You can take a taxi, an Uber or take a round trip on our ferry and shuttle.

We have a Caribbean food kiosk.

Yes, we have wifi.

Reservations can be modified or cancelled up to 48hrs before your scheduled experience. Beyond that we cannot offer refunds or changes to your booking.

Yes, Casa BACARDÍ is ADA compliant . If you have any specific needs and would like to know more, please contact us.

The tours are strictly for adults of 18 years or older. You can visit Casa BACARDÍ with minors, but they will only have access to our gift shop, food kiosk, or our Pavilion area. Any minors must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

We love our furry friends! However, we only allow service animals on our premises.

Yes! We offer events spaces for hire, to find out more please email [email protected] or submit your request here: Casa BACARDÍ Event Request .

Yes, we offer collection! You can take a look at our online shop here: BACARDÍ Store .

how to contact us

Address: Carretera 165 KM 6.2, Cataño, Puerto Rico Open Hours: Every day 9:30am – 6:00pm Email: [email protected] Telephone: Puerto Rico 787-788-8400

Cataño’s top-rated attraction

need more help?

If you still have unanswered questions, check out our FAQs section . Visit: Carretera 165 KM 6.2, Cataño, Puerto Rico Email: [email protected] Call: Puerto Rico on 787-788-8400 For further questions, please fill out this contact form.

@casabacardipr

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Rum Experiences in Puerto Rico You Shouldn’t Miss

You don’t have to be a rum connoisseur to appreciate the indelible mark this iconic spirit has made on Puerto Rico’s narrative 

Often called “The Rum Capital of the World,” Puerto Rico produces 70 percent of the rum sold in the U.S. The island’s rum production dates back to the early 16th century. Spaniards brought sugar cane crops from Hispaniola (today the Dominican Republic). The island’s first sugar cane mill was constructed in 1517. By the mid-19th century more than 700 sugar cane plantations had been established, as well as a good number of sugar refineries and rum distilleries. Although the sugar industry eventually diminished, rum-making endured. Today the rum industry adds over $300 million to Puerto Rico’s economy annually. It’s also responsible for more than 700 jobs in the island’s distilleries. 

Distillery tours

For a taste of Puerto Rico’s rich rum history, book a tour or mixology class at one of the distilleries. Some of them have produced rum for more than 100 years. Here are a few places to add to your rum discovery itinerary. 

Ron del Barrilito

Hacienda Santa Ana, Bayamón

Tour Cost: Heritage Tour, $25 per person; Mixology and Tasting tours, $80 per person

Crafted by hand in small batches, Ron del Barrilito rum is aged in vintage American white oak sherry barrels—a process that’s remained the same since 1880. A Heritage Tour showcases the family legacy behind Puerto Rico’s oldest distillery, including a look at Hacienda’s historical landmarks like the lovingly preserved family mansion. The interactive Mixology Tour teaches guests the art of creating classic bar-quality cocktails. The Tasting Tour allows guests the unique opportunity to taste the “angel’s share” of rum, the part of rum that naturally evaporates from the barrel during the aging process. The tasting experience includes Dos Estrellas, Tres Estrellas, Ron del Barrilito Cuatro Estrellas and Cinco Estrellas.

Casa Bacardí

PR-165, Cataño

Tour Cost: Mixology Class and Rum Tasting Tour, $75; Bar Visit, $20

When Don Facundo Bacardí Massó purchased a small distillery in Santiago de Cuba in 1862, it was the beginning of a rum revolution. Over the next several decades, Bacardí rum earned celebrity status and even helped fuel tourism to Cuba from the U.S. during the Prohibition era. In 1930, they built distilleries in Mexico and Puerto Rico.

The facility located here is the world’s largest premium rum distillery. Hone your cocktail making skills with the Mixology Class, where you’ll craft the classic Mojito and shaken Piña Colada. During the class, you’ll learn more about Bacardí’s history, as well as pick up a few new bar skills.

The Rum Tasting Tour showcases Bacardí’s premium rums and includes a chocolate pairing. A trolley tour to the family museum and an overview of the company’s history are part of both experiences. If you aren’t able to secure a tour or have less time to enjoy the distillery, consider the Casa Bacardí Bar Visit. A ticket gets you a tasty cocktail, a locally-made empanada and the chance to chill at the waterfront Pavilion with a fantastic view of El Morro, an iconic fortification and UNESCO World Heritage Site.

San Juan Artisan Distillers

RD-690, KM 3.2 Sabana Hoyos, Vega Alta

Tour Cost: $80 per person

San Juan Artisan Distillers is located about 22 miles (34 km) west of San Juan. It’s Puerto Rico’s only working sugar cane plantation estate and distillery. Inspired by the use of sugar cane early rum makers in Puerto Rico used, owner Pepe Alvarez planted his first crop and started the process of creating his own rum distillery. However, before they were able to harvest it, Hurricane Maria destroyed the crop entirely.

That setback only fueled his imagination. The result: fruit-flavored rums made with fruits locally sourced from farms in San Sebastián, Santa Isabel, Manatí and other regions. Tour guides provide insight into their rum making process and showcase the company’s dedication to sustainability. The 1½-hour tour concludes with a sampling of rums crafted by San Juan Artisan Distillers. 

Crab Island Rum

4FCF+PV, Vieques

Tour Cost: Call distillery for tour details

Opened in 2019, Crab Island Rum Distillery is the first distillery on Puerto Rico’s southeast island of Vieques, where owner Ivan Torres was born and raised. He returned to the island to pursue his dream of creating handcrafted artisanal rum after earning his college and master’s degrees in the states. Torres sought the guidance of renowned rum master Luis Planas, who mentored him through the early stages of developing the business. Ingredients for the coffee and orange infused brands are sourced from local growers on Puerto Rico’s main island. Free distillery tours and tastings are available.

More rum experiences

Situated in the heart of Old San Juan, La Casita de Rones opened its doors in 2016. Co-owned by Joel Vazquez Rivera and Ramon Díaz, it’s the flagship store of Rums of Puerto Rico, a marketing arm of the island’s Department of Economic Development and Commerce. This distinctive rum experience showcases authentic Puerto Rican tapas and entrees that pair well with one of their craft rum-based cocktails. A well-curated shop offers an ample selection of apparel, glassware, bar accessories and other rum-inspired souvenirs.

In addition to his work with La Casita de Rones, co-owner Joel Vazquez Rivera channeled his passion to share Puerto Rico’s rum culture by creating Puerto Rico Rum Journey . The program provides visitors an easy way to book rum tours, experiences, events and buy merchandise. You can either go to their website or book through the app which is available in iOS and Android via the App Store or Google Play. They offer a selection of rum distillery itineraries, as well as tips on additional places to explore in each destination. Available itineraries feature many of the above-mentioned distilleries, with Casa Bacardí being the most popular. The app also offers a “rum experts” experience where users can unlock collectible badges on their digital passport to win prizes and level up their rum expert status. 

“Hopefully, this program will make Puerto Rico a rum destination and spread the word that our rum heritage has not been discovered by all who visit the island,” shares Vazquez.

Address: Calle Comercio San Juan

Tel: 787-966-7042

Cost: Call program for details

Let us take you on a journey to  find your spirit.

Your "spiritual" journey begins here. discover lugo's handcrafted rum spirits, including lugo's pitorro, libertalia and riskey.   start your journey here..

EXPLORE THE  LOUNGE

Check out the distillery lounge and cocktail bar, now open weekly from Thursday - Sunday.

DISTILLERY TOURS 

Tours and tastings available every Saturday by appointment only. Schedule your today today.

Hailing from the Caribbean island of Puerto Rico, we are bringing an innovative twist to the rum cultural traditions.

GIVE A GIFT

Purchase an e-gift card online today. Physical gift cards are available at the distillery only.

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2 NEAT Glass

Short-Sleeve Unisex T-Shirt

What They Says

“Las visitas a las destilerías de ron en suelo boricua ahora están al alcance de la mano de los turistas y locales a través de la aplicación móvil “Puerto Rico Rum Journey” , que permite a los usuarios reservar experiencias y hasta adentrarse en una comunidad de amantes de este licor.”

“Puerto Rico Rum Journey, a tool to generate traffic and facilitate visiting different rum distilleries located throughout the Island, was unveiled recently to allow users to interact with seven distilleries, create a route of visits, and make reservations for excursions, tastings, seminars, and mixology classes, among other experiences.”

“Lanzan la ruta del ron con Puerto Rico Rum Journey. Una nueva aplicación digital y página web que permite a los usuarios interaccionar con siete destilerías, para crear un itinerario o ruta de visitas, hacer reservaciones para eventos como excursiones, catados, seminarios, y clases de mixología, entre otras experiencias.”

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San Juan Artisan Distillers

Puerto rico’s sugarcane estate distillery.

Established in 2011, San Juan Artisan Distillers, located in the coastal town of Vega Alta, is the first and only Sugarcane Estate Distillery in Puerto Rico.

Unique in its kind, we grow, harvest, ferment, and distill Sugarcane juice from Puerto Rican Heirloom varietals in our French Cognac Potstills.

RON PEPÓN, an award-winning “Ron Agrícola” made 100% from our Estate Sugarcane juice.

TRESCLAVOS Ron Caña, also an award-winning rum inspired by Puerto Rican tradition, a Ron Caña of exceptional quality infused with Locally Farmed Tropical Fruits.

San Juan Artisan Distillers is a farm to bottle distillery.

Our Artisanal Rums

Ron Pepón Agrícola is the first and only Ron Agrícola ever made in Puerto Rico, from our own Sugarcane juice. In our unique approach to rum distilling, we rescued Puerto Rican sugarcane cultivars from near extinction that we now grow, mill, ferment and double distill in our French Cognac Pot Stills.

Ron Pepón Blanco Agrícola, a well-balanced funky Agrícola Rum with notes of subtle herbal aromas of freshly cut sugarcane, mineral and sugar honey. Gold medal winner at the Fifty Best White Rums 2021.

Ron Pepón Añejo is aged for 24 to 36 months in American Oak Whiskey barrels in our Estate Bodega. The uniqueness of Ron Pepón Añejo delivers aromas of vanilla, charred wood, whiskey and the herbal notes and funkiness of Ron Pepón Blanco Agrícola that still comes through.

All bottles are marked by limited editions: numbered by Bottle, Batch and Year.

45% ALC/VOL

Pepón Daiquiri

2 oz. Ron Pepon Blanco

1/2 oz. Simple Syrup

1 oz. Lime Juice

Pepón Old Fashioned

2 oz. Ron Pepon Añejo

1/4 oz. Simple Syrup

3 dashes of Angostura Bitters

Handcrafted in our Estate Distillery, TRESCLAVOS Ron Caña Agrícola, inspired by Puerto Rican tradition, a Ron Caña of exceptional quality. Infused with Puerto Rican fruits, sourced from local farmers 50 miles or less from our Estate Distillery. TRESCLAVOS Ron Caña, 100% Natural, no preservatives or artificial colors added.

Available in seven expressions: Ginger Spice, Sweet Piña, Tuti Fruits, Passion Parcha, Rumba Mango, Coco Loco and Bili Quenepa.

30% ALC/VOL

TRESCLAVOS COCKTAILS

TRES CLAVOS PARCHA MOJITO

Ingredients: 

2 Oz. TresClavos Passion Parcha Rum

3 Oz. Sugar Cane Juice or 1 Tsp. Brown Sugar

1/2 Oz. Lime juice

2 Tsp. Passion fruit pulp or 1/2 of a fresh passion fruit Splash of soda water ( For Royale mojito use cava or prosecco instead)

3 Spearint leaves (hand slapped, not crushed) Ice

Instructions: 

Combine ingredients in shaker and pour in an ice filled glass. Garnish with additional spearmint leaves.

TRES CLAVOS JUNGLE BIRD

2 Oz. TRESCLAVOS Sweet Piña Rum (Pineapple)

3 Oz. Pineapple Juice (Fresh if available)

3/4 Oz. Campari

1/4 of a squeezed lime

Pineapple leaves for garnish

Combine ingredients in a shaker with ice and pourinto a glass with crushed ice. Garnish with pineapple leaves.

TRESCLAVOS BORICUA MULE

2 Oz. TRES CLAVOS Ginger Spice Rum

3 Oz. Ginger Beer

1/2 Lime juice

Grated fresh ginger and lime for garnish 

Pour ingredients into copper mug or collins glass with ice & stir.

Garnish with sliced wedge of lime and fresh ginger.

TRESCLAVOS Ronsanto is the first Antilliean rum blend made in Puerto Rico, using our Ron Pepón Agrícola Añejo in a blend with Agrícola Dominican rum, both made from sugarcane juice. One distilled in columns, ours in French Cognac Pot Stills, aged in American Oak Whiskey barrels in our Estate Bodega for 36 months.

An extraordinary rum expression with notes of dry coconut, caramel, vanilla, whiskey, charred wood and fruitiness. A well-balanced Ron Agrícola, handcrafted 100% in our Estate Distillery.

43% ALC/VOL

Jose R Alvarez Reyes, Founder & President

Jose Roberto Álvarez Jr., Vice President-Head Distiller

Our mission.

“A contemporary approach to producing artisanal, handcrafted, estate premium distilled rums always quality over quantity”.

– Pepe Álvarez & Jose Roberto Álvarez

Please verify your age

UNCHANGED SINCE 1880

Ron del Barrilito’s timeline is one of stability and consistency. More than 140 years ago, we found a way to craft world-class rum. Today, we’re still making rum in the same way.

BOOK A TOUR

You’re invited to our Hacienda Santa Ana, located in Bayamón, Puerto Rico. Come take a tour (and a taste) of our rich history.

Book a round trip ticket to our Hacienda Santa Ana to get all of our world-class rums.

We love it neat, but Ron del Barrilito also brings a unique flavor and character to your favorite cocktails. Here are just a couple to get you started.

Join our Email List

Sustainability

At Ron del Barrilito, sustainability is a piece of who we are. Click below to learn more about our brand-wide sustainability efforts.

Get the answers to our most Frequently Asked Questions below.

Read more about what’s happening with our products, our Hacienda Santa Ana, and everything Ron del Barrilito.

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San Juan Puerto Rico    ⎮   San Juan Puerto Rico Things to Do    ⎮ Distilleries in San Juan   ⎮  Casa Bacardi Rum Distillery

Established in 1862, Casa Bacardi, also known as the Cathedral of Rum, is the largest rum distillery in the world.  Visiting Casa Bacardi is one of the best places to visit in Puerto Rico , offering visitors a variety of experiences sure to change the way you taste rum.  The distillery is located on the historic San Juan Bay right across from Old San Juan, located in the municipality of Cataño, about a 30-minute drive from the capital city of San Juan.   The gift shop is one of the highlights of the experience, you can purchase rums exclusively sold there.   

Tours to Casa Bacardi Distillery

Rum tasting tour.

Learn how to taste rum the right way and become a rum maestro! In this guided tour, you will have the opportunity to taste BACARDÍ’s premium rums, accompanied by a chocolate pairing.  You will also learn about the history of the world’s most-awarded rum .

Duration of Tour: 75 minutes.

The cost for the class is $75.00 plus tax and includes:

• One welcome cocktail at the Pavilion
• A trolley ride around the site
• Learn about the history of our rum while visiting the Bacardi Family Museum
• Sample four premium rums paired with locally made artisanal chocolate.
• Gift Shop access

Tasting times are 10:00 a.m. | 12:00 p.m. | 2:00 p.m. | 4:00 p.m.

Mixology Class at Casa Bacardi

In this fun and interactive class, you will learn how to create the perfect Mojito and Shaken Piña Colada while learning about the history of these cocktails and some cool bar tricks and skills!

Duration of Tour:   75 minutes.

• One welcome cocktail at the Pavilion  
• A trolley ride around the site 
• Learn about the history of our rum while visiting the Bacardi  Family Museum
• Learn how to make your Mojito & hand-shaken Piña Colada BACARDÍ style!

Class times:  10:30 a.m. | 12:30 p.m. | 2:30 p.m. | 4:30 p.m.

Legacy Tour  at Casa Bacardi

Travel through time at the Casa BACARDÍ Legacy Tour! Discover the Bacardi family heritage and become part of our legacy by getting to know the World’s Most-Aawarded Premium Rum .  Enjoy craft cocktails at our iconic Pavilion and live the unforgettable experience of tasting the exclusive Casa BACARDÍ Special Reserve, not found anywhere else in the World.

Duration of Tour: 45 minutes.

The cost for the class is $30.00 plus tax and includes:

• Movie at the Bacardi Visitor Center
• Taste of the Casa BACARDÍ Special Reserve at the Havana bar

Tour times  are 11:15 a.m. | 12:15 p.m. | 1:15 p.m. | 2:15 p.m. | 3:15 p.m. | 4:15 p.m.

Getting to Bacardi Distillery

Driving there: If you have a rental car and prefer to drive, take PR-22 west out of San Juan for about 3 miles to the Cantaño exit, Road 165.  Drive approximately 2 more miles (you’ll see the plant in the distance off to the right) and turn right at the Intersection with Road 888, at the Bay View Industrial Park in Cantaño.  Turn left at the Bacardi entrance and continue for approximately 1/2 mile to the visitor parking lot.

Taxis to Casa Bacardi Rum Distillery:   There are plenty of taxis in the tourist areas of San Juan, it is about a 25-minute ride.  Always ask the price and agree upon it before getting into the taxi. 

Ferry from Old San Juan –  You may take the ferry from Old San Juan to Cataño, it is a small ferry boat mostly used by business commuters and is low cost.  After arriving in Cataño, there should be taxi drivers at the ferry terminal that will take you to Casa Bacardi.  Be advised that at times the ferry may be late or unreliable depending on weather, boat mechanical conditions, and availability.  We recommend you buy the tickets in advance and arrive at least an hour in advance, so you can double-check if the ferry is running on time, if you encounter any issues, you will still have the option to take a taxi to Casa Bacardi.  We recommend you take a taxi to avoid any inconvenience.   More information on the Cataño / Old San Juan ferry

Map - Casa Bacardi Distillery

Top rated tours to casa bacardi distillery.

+ Bacardi Distillery 

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The Bacardi Distillery Tour in Puerto Rico

Serge Melki / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0 

You don't need to be a fan of rum to enjoy touring Casa Bacardi in Puerto Rico , the largest rum distillery in the world . With three tour options, you can learn all about the history of the Bacardi family, learn how to taste rum, and even take a cocktail-making class.

Bacardi History

Bacardi has been conducting tours since 1962, an almost 50-year tradition of showing visitors their factory. Bacardi's founder was Don Facundo Bacardí Massó, a Spaniard who emigrated to Cuba in 1830. He and brother José learned to filter rum through charcoal to remove impurities and age it in oak barrels to give it its smoothness.

Facundo's son, Emilio, was a politician, author, and eventually the mayor of Santiago de Cuba, but it was his brother-in-law, Enrique Schueg, who was the architect of Bacardi's international growth. Schueg began rum production in Puerto Rico in the 1930s.

Today, Bacardi continues to be a family business, now in its fifth generation. They continue to be, as Enrique labeled the spirit, "The Kings of Rum."

The Showroom and Secrets

Perhaps the most entertaining part of the tour is the interactive exhibit room where you'll find a recreation of Bacardi's first distillery, heirlooms, and photos from the past, and rum displays that let you sniff your way through different varieties and blends of the spirit.

You'll also learn some of the steps that go into making rum: the two types of fermentation, the best types of rum for sipping vs. mixing, and even what Bacardi does with the byproducts of rum production.

How to Book a Tour

There are many tour companies that sell tours to Casa Bacardi and for cruisers in San Juan for the day, this is one of the most popular excursions. Note that if there is a cruise ship in town the day you intend to visit the distillery, you might be run into some crowds. Many tour companies will also combine the distillery visit with a day tour of the city, so that could be a good option if you're short on time.

It's also possible to book directly on the Bacardi website , where you'll have the choice of three different tour types.

• The Historical Tour is a 45 minute tour of the visitor center and includes a welcome cocktail at the Bat Bar. This is the most basic tour and best for those who are just looking for quick look-see at Casa Bacardi.
• The Rum Tasting Tour lasts 75 minutes and includes a welcome cocktail and a guided tasting of six different kinds of rum.
• The Mixology Class includes a welcome cocktail, plus the three cocktails you will learn how to make yourself in the class. The class lasts approximately 75 minutes.

Bottle Your Own Bacardi

Casa Bacardi also offers the opportunity to purchase and bottle your own bottle of rum with a personal engraving. The experience includes a bottle of Bacardi's Special Reserve Rum, which can only be purchased at the Puerto Rico distillery, a nice box to store your bottle, and a photo of you and your bottle in front of the barrel you poured it from. The most fun part is sealing the bottle with Bacardi's signature red wax.

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• February 26, 2019

Ron Del Barrilito Visitor Center and Tours

Located in Bayamon, Ron del Barrilito and Fernández family have been producing some of the finest rum in the world at the at Hacienda Santa since 1880. Now they have opened up their distillery to the general public with tours and a new Ron del Barrilito Visitor Center.

Operating Mondays to Fridays Ron del Barrilito will be offering three tours:

Heritage Tour

The Heritage tour aims to take you back in time showcasing how world’s finest sipping rum has been made throughout the years. You will learn the history of the Fernandez family , visit several of the Hacienda’s landmarks including: the mansion and windmill that dates back to the early 19th century. The tour also includes a walkthrough of the Ron del Barrilito rum making process.

The tour costs $25 with a complimentary Ron del Barrilito rum cocktail at our Visitor’s Center before starting the tour. The Heritage Tour lasts approximately 30 mins

Mixology Tour

The Ron del Barrilito Mixology Tour is a must for any budding home bartenders. During the tour, which also includes the Heritage Tour, you will be shown the basics of creating high quality cocktails by some of Puerto Rico’s top bartenders.

You will be shown how to craft popular cocktails such as: Old Fashioned, Presidente, and Hemingway Daiquiri using Ron del Barrilito rums.

The Mixology Tour costs $80 (includes Heritage Tour) with a complimentary Ron del Barrilito rum cocktail at our Visitor’s Center before starting the tour. The Mixology Tour lasts approximately 60 minutes.

Rum Tasting Tour

The Ron del Barrilito Rum Tasting Tour is a must for lovers of fine rums. Experience the full range of Ron del Barrilito rums from Dos Estrellas to their cult-classic Tres Estrellas. You will also experience Cuatro Estrellas, a new blend available exclusively at Hacienda Santa Ana and their top shelf; Cinco Estrellas

The tour costs $80 (includes the Heritage Tour) with a complimentary Ron del Barrilito rum cocktail at our Visitor’s Center before starting the tour. The Rum Tasting Tour lasts approximately 60 minutes.

General Tour Information

• At the end of the tours, visitors can enjoy the new Visitors Center and the grounds of the Hacienda Santa Ana
• Visitors must be 18 years or older with a valid ID
• The complimentary cocktail cannot be made with Ron del Barrilito Cuatro Estrellas or Cinco Estrellas
• No professional video or photography equipment is allowed inside the Visitor Center areas
• The use of selfie sticks is prohibited inside the Visitor Center and during guided tours

For more information visit the Ron del Barrilito website and Facebook page

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Exceptional Rum Since 1865

Our heritage.

At Don Q , our Heritage shows up at the Destilería Serrallés every single day. Our company's legacy is a living force that drives our constant quest to perfect the art of rum making. It is the collective wisdom passed down through six generations of the Serrallés family through over 150 years at our craft. Our commitment to the people and techniques that define Don Q have made us the unquestionable favorite in the land of rum: Puerto Rico . Now available in the U.S., we are confident you’ll enjoy our steadfast devotion to the excellence of Don Q .

Don Juan Serrallés

Don Juan vastly expanded the family sugar cane business and founded the Serrallés rum making tradition. Using a copper pot still he imported from France, he produced the first casks of rum sold under the Serrallés name. He also founded the town of Mercedita, named after his wife, Mercedes. Don Juan laid the foundation not only for the Serrallés legacy, but for Puerto Rico becoming the world leader in rum production.

Félix J. Serrallés, Jr.

During his tenure as CEO of Destilería Serrallés (1981 – 2017), Félix Serrallés Jr. focused his efforts on the consolidation and expansion of the family business through significant investments and modernization. Under his guidance, Don Q rum returned to the U.S. after a decades long hiatus, expanded its range of products, and has adopted environmentally conscious production methods that have made a positive impact on local ecosystems.

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Fabricado para disfrutarse con responsabilidad

© 2016 Don Q Rum | El uso de este sitio implica la aceptación de nuestros Términos y Condiciones y Política de Privacidad.

Fabricado por Destilería Serrallés, Inc., Ponce, PR y distribuido por Serrallés USA, Dallas, TX. Ron 20%, 21%, 30% y 40% ALC/VOL.

Rum 20%, 21%, 30%, 40%, 75.5% ALC/VOL.

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Printed on 29 Apr 2024 from PuertoRicoDayTrips.com

Don Q Rum Tour in Ponce

If you enjoy rum like we do, you should know that Puerto Rico is full of rum distilleries and rum tours. One of the newer rum tours available provides the opportunity to explore the oldest Puerto Rican rum, Don Q! Find out why rums produced by Don Q are the best selling rums in Puerto Rico. While the tour is not of the actual distillery, they have created an interesting tour, which takes you from the beginning of the Serrallés story to the newest Don Q rum offerings. And it is a mixology tour, so you get to make (and drink) a few delicious drinks.

The home of Don Q rum is in Ponce, on the south coast of Puerto Rico. They have developed the rum tour inside the Museo Castillo Serrallés (the Serrallés family mansion). So it is an added bonus that you get to see some of the home and gardens on this tour.

You are greeted by your tour guide, and the rum starts flowing right away with a welcome drink at the bar. The tour is a combination of live presentations, videos, photos and displays, and hands on activities. You learn the history of the Serrallés family, who moved from Spain to Ponce in order to open a sugar plantation and processing facility. They started their rum production in 1865, and have been making delicious rum ever since! They even have the original copper still they used on display inside the house.

On the tour, you learn about the sugar plantation, processing, and how sugar (and other a few additional items) is converted into rum. They had a nice display/discussion about the whole hacienda, plantation, factory, and the the distillation, aging, and blending processes. We had a taste test of a 7-year aged rum straight from the barrel (and you learn how and why high proof rum is diluted to the typical 40% alcohol by volume). There was a presentation on all of the Don Q products.

After all that learning, it was finally time to go to the mixology room, where our guide walked us through how to make two drinks. The first was an Old Fashioned, made with Don Q Reserva 7. That was a nice sipping drink. As you sipped on that, you made a Piña Colada, using Don Q Gold rum. That was delicious, too!

After our drinks, we checked out the (optional) virtual reality “Making of Rum” game. As it turns out, we are really bad at virtual reality games but that just added to the fun.

At the conclusion of the tour, we were free to walk around the house gardens and take photos. It is a beautiful place. If you have never been on the house tour before, I recommend you do that while you are there, because you see more of the house. In addition, there is a separate Japanese garden, a butterfly sanctuary, and the emblematic Cruceta del Vigía (the giant cross lookout), that offers a great view of Ponce.

The cost of the mixology tour was $60 per person when we went, but that is subject to change.

The mixology tours are offered Thursday through Monday at 10:30am and 3:30pm in Spanish, and 1:00pm in English. There is a limit of 15 people per session.

The tour lasts about 90 minutes. Plan to arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled tour, and allow some additional time check out the gardens afterward.

You can call Museo Castillo Serrallés at 787-259-1774 for more information.

You can visit the Don Q website for more information or to book a tour.

Parking is roadside, in front of the museum on both sides of the street.

Click on a placename below to view the location on Google Maps ...

• Serralles Castle

PuertoRicoDayTrips.com assumes no responsibility regarding your safety when participating in the activities described in this article. Please use common sense! If your mother or that little voice in your head tells you that you are about to do something stupid … then don't do it! Read more about Safety →

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The Rum Lab

Teaching the secrets and history of rum!

Home » BannerSlider » Club Caribe “Puerto Rico” Distillery Tour

Club Caribe “Puerto Rico” Distillery Tour

On October 12, 2021, a livestream was started on the platform “ZAVVY” , hosted by “The Rum Lab”. The livestream featured Fede J. Hernández, an entrepreneur specializing in sales and marketing, and Félix Mateo, Distillery & Environmental Affairs Director at Club Caribe Distillers. The focus for today’s topic is a group study of Puerto Rico’s distillery tour in Puerto Rico, guided by Felix Mateo. 

About Felix Mateo

Felix Mateo’s journey began in the southern part of an island, surrounded by vast sugarcane fields. As a child, he would watch workers rise early, don their long shirts and hats, and wield machetes sharp enough to shave with. He was fascinated by their skill and the sweet smell of freshly cut cane. His first encounter with rum, a product derived from sugarcane, was during this time. However, his deeper involvement with rum production came much later. After growing up, Mateo pursued his education at Mayagüez, where he studied chemical engineering and chemistry.

Upon graduation, he started working in oil refineries located in the southern part of the island. However, due to an embargo in the 80s, these refineries were closed. This led Mateo to ponder his next career move. He considered the farming industry but ultimately decided on rum production – a decision influenced by his childhood experiences and the fact that people always enjoy a good drink.

Mateo then joined Bacardi, where he worked for over 30 years. During his tenure there, he not only held various positions and worked on numerous projects but also had the opportunity to learn from masters of rum who had emigrated from Cuba long ago. These individuals had incredible experience in rum making, and together with a highly knowledgeable technical group at Bacardi, they greatly contributed to Mateo’s learning. After retiring from Bacardi, Mateo joined Crew Caribbean in 2012. He is currently in charge of their operations and also oversees their facilities in Florida.

The Evolution of “Club Caribe”

Felix Mateo’s journey in the rum industry led him to a unique partnership when their parent company, CC1, acquired two distilleries in Florida that used to be called “Florida Distillers”, that had been operational since the 1960s. This acquisition was a surprise to Mateo, who was unaware of the existence of distilleries in Florida.

The distilleries in Florida were not just production facilities; they also housed a bottling plant. Recognizing the potential to create a variety of products and ferment cane molasses, the company decided to establish a distillery in Puerto Rico. This decision was driven by the desire to create synergy between the operations in Florida and Puerto Rico.

The unique aspect of this setup was the location of the distillery in the mountains of Puerto Rico. The fermentation process is carried out in Florida, while the secondary distillation and aging take place in Puerto Rico. This arrangement allowed them to address a significant challenge faced by all distilleries – waste management. In the fermentation process, about 90% of the output is waste. However, they found a successful solution by converting this waste into cattle feed. This solution was particularly effective in Florida, given its substantial cattle population.

Inside Florida’s Rum Distilleries

Felix Mateo talks about one of the distilleries in Florida, located approximately 40 minutes from Orlando or Disneyland. This distillery is unique in its approach to waste management, converting waste into cattle feed. This environmentally friendly solution is a key aspect of their operations.

The distillery, nestled in the mountains, is involved in various activities. They produce wine, undertake contract bottling, and even make citrus spirits due to their location in a citrus-growing region. They have the capability to ferment both citrus and cane.

The distillation process at this facility involves the use of first-generation stills. However, they are in the process of upgrading these stills to third-generation ones. A modern evaporation unit has been recently installed to increase capacity. This unit is particularly useful for treating waste from citrus and cane fermentation, which is more challenging to evaporate and concentrate.

In addition to this distillery, there is another one located in Lake Alfred, closer to Orlando. This facility has the same production capacity but boasts a larger storage capacity. Like its counterpart, it also houses fermentation and distillation units and evaporators for waste management. This setup ensures that 90% of the waste from distillation is effectively handled.

Sourcing and Production Process

Felix Mateo, shared some interesting insights about their operations. He revealed that the majority of the molasses they use is sourced from Central Florida, near Okeechobee. There are thousands of acres of sugar cane in that region, and they purchase the molasses from these farms and transport it by trucks to their plant.

Felix mentioned that they have no issues with supply due to the large volume of molasses available. They also purchase another type of molasses called ‘refiners’, which is of a higher quality. In addition to these, they buy citrus molasses, a lesser-known type of molasses.

He also mentioned that many companies purchase their products for use in a variety of other products. Interestingly, most of the molasses they buy and distill comes from America, specifically Florida. This makes Club Caribe one of the few distilleries in Puerto Rico that uses American-grown sugarcane or sources American molasses.

Once the molasses is distilled in Florida, it is transported in tanks to Puerto Rico for further processing. The fermentation and first distillation are done in Florida, resulting in a product called ‘aguardiente’ or ‘high wine’. This is then transported by tankers to Puerto Rico via Jacksonville.

Club Caribe Distillers: Operations and Facilities

Felix Mateo and Fede Hernandez provided a virtual tour of their distillery in Puerto Rico. He described the distillery as a third-generation establishment with advanced equipment such as vacuum-operating columns and heat-providing columns for distillation.

The second floor of the distillery houses all the instrumentation needed to control the distillation process, including the removal of heads and tails to create a very light rum. As he ascended to the top of the distillery, he pointed out the beautiful location of the distillery in the mountains of Puerto Rico.

He highlighted two green warehouses that are part of their complex. The property, purchased in 2010, was formerly a pharmaceutical complex. Now, it houses various operations including rum production, water processing, wine making, and can manufacturing.

Felix also mentioned a can factory located within their complex and shared plans about building another factory near their distilleries in Florida. This insightful tour offered a unique glimpse into Club Caribe Distillers’ operations and facilities.

Unique Stills and Rum Production

Felix shared some intriguing details about their distillery’s stills and rum production process. He revealed that the pot still they use is part of a family of stills that were once owned by 10 Cane. When these stills were sold, two families, including de la Cruz, the president and owner of Club Caribe, and Pepe Gonzalez, were the fortunate buyers.

The still they purchased is a 10,000 cognac pot still, one of the largest available. They aimed to create a highly automated operation, integrating numerous controls into the process. The result is a system where they input the recipe and the pot still carries out the job.

Interestingly, these stills were previously owned by Luis Vuitton Moet Chandon and used to create 10 cane rum in Trinidad and Tobago at a facility where Caroni was also produced. Despite interest from several parties, including Alexander Gabriel, owner of Plantation Rum and Sant Ferran, de la Cruz and Jose Pepe Alvarez emerged as the successful bidders.

Felix mentioned that they have several installations underway and are aging a unique aged rum for future release. This project involves secondary distillation and promises to deliver very unique profiles.

The Journey of Caribbean Rum and Rancho Grande to Become Puerto Rican Rum

Felix Mateo, shed light on the process of how Caribbean rum and Rancho Grande qualify as Puerto Rican rum. According to Mateo, several transformation steps are required to meet the standards set by both the Puerto Rican government and the TTB (Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau).

Mateo explained that they had to obtain a permit from the TTB and create several processes to comply with its requirements. This was particularly challenging on the aging side. In the past, distilleries used to bring spirits to Puerto Rico for aging and then send them back to their original location. However, this method did not meet the TTB’s transformation requirements.

To address this, Club Caribe Distillers worked diligently to convince the TTB that their newly created transformation process complied with these requirements. In addition to meeting TTB’s standards, they also had to fulfill Puerto Rico’s requirements, which mandate a minimum aging period of one year.

As a result of these rigorous processes, both Caribbean rum and Rancho Grande have achieved excellent quality. Specifically, Caribbean rum has a minimum aging period of one year, while Rancho Grande is aged for a minimum of five years.

The Self-Sustained Distillery of Club Caribe

Felix Mateo provided insights into the self-sustaining nature of their distillery. He explained that their facility is equipped with its own water system, including wells for their processes. A key feature of the distillery is its cogeneration plant, which is responsible for all the electricity in the complex. This independence from external power providers ensures a reliable and uninterrupted power supply for their operations.

The cogeneration plant operates by burning natural gas to generate electricity, steam, and chilled water for their processes. The motors seen in the showed video are part of this cogeneration system.

When asked about the source of natural gas, Mateo revealed that it is supplied by a company on the island that also provides natural gas to power companies. This comprehensive system allows Club Caribe Distillers to maintain a high level of self-sufficiency in their operations.

The Art of Rum Making at Club Caribe Distillers

Felix explained the intricate process of rum making. The tour showcased their unique system of pot stills, which is central to their rum production. Mateo shared that they have implemented a teaching process where they start with test pot stills. These test pot stills are essentially smaller versions of the larger ones used in production. This is where they begin experimenting with recipes.

Once they have a recipe that produces the rum they desire, it is then scaled up. The recipe is plugged into their system and the larger pot still takes over the rest of the process. This methodical and systematic approach ensures the consistent quality of their rum.

Blending Traditions and Innovations: Club Caribe Approach to Rum Making 

In the world of spirits, Club Caribe and Alto Grande hold a significant place. Alto Grande, currently being promoted as a flagship brand, is recognized as a premium coffee company in Puerto Rico. Interestingly, it has diversified into the rum business under the same name. The decision to venture into rum production was made after ensuring a sufficient inventory to sustain over five years of operations.

Every year, they create unique rums, drawing on the expertise of master distillers and their own experience. The process involves blending two types of rums – a heavier rum and a lighter one – much like the blending of single malt and grain in making a fine scotch.

According to Mateo, the essence of rum lies in blending. Each blend results in a different profile, creating a diverse range of rums. He emphasized the importance of aging in old barrels, a traditional practice in Puerto Rico that significantly influences the flavor profile of the rum.

The Influence of Geography on Rum Aging

Félix Mateo, has had the unique experience of working at two distilleries located in contrasting environments – one by the ocean and the other in the mountains. This has given him a firsthand understanding of how geography influences the aging process of rum.

Mateo confirms that there is indeed a difference in the aging process between the two locations. At the ocean-side distillery, temperatures remain consistently high. In contrast, the mountain distillery experiences more varied temperatures. It’s cooler, especially during this time of year, with temperatures rising during the day. This variation in temperature creates a different profile for the rum, a fact that Mateo admits took him by surprise.

The interview also touched upon the geographical diversity of Puerto Rico. As one travels from north to south, lush greenery gives way to arid landscapes. Sidra, located near this transition zone, experiences more rainfall and cooler temperatures around December to February. This unique climate further influences the aging process, adding another layer of complexity to their rums.

Navigating the Evolving Landscape of the Rum Industry

The rum industry is currently undergoing a fascinating evolution, with distilleries experimenting with different types of barrels for aging. Not just ex-bourbon or ex-American whiskey barrels, but also ex-cognac barrels and others are being explored. This experimentation is seen as a beautiful project, opening up new possibilities for flavor profiles.

Félix Mateo, however, holds a more traditional view. Despite the industry’s shift towards experimentation, Mateo remains a firm believer in the power of blending and aging in old barrels. He doesn’t currently see the need for using cherry barrels, but he doesn’t rule out the possibility for future exploration.

Mateo emphasizes that creating high-quality rum is about more than just experimentation. It’s about not taking shortcuts, being consistent, and focusing on proper aging and blending. He believes that these principles are key to avoiding problems and ensuring the creation of top-notch rum. Interestingly, this trend of experimenting with different barrels isn’t exclusive to the rum industry. It’s also being observed in Scotch production, indicating a broader shift in the spirits industry towards innovation and diversity in aging processes.

Featured Image: YouTube – Edgar Rosado

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