When you think of the Cayman Islands, you might envision pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life. However, did you know that the Cayman Islands also has an enticing rum scene? That’s right – this tropical paradise is home to some of the best rums in the world. The delectable Caribbean spirit has a unique history and flavor that can only be found in the heart of the Cayman Islands.
As you explore the world of Cayman Island rums, you’ll embark on a rumtastic adventure that takes you through the island’s top distilleries and brands. From sipping in style at premier tastings to discovering the intricate ways in which the tropical blend of rum and culture are intertwined, you’ll experience a side of the Cayman Islands that’s not to be missed.
So get ready because I’ll show you the delightful world of Cayman Island rums.
Key Takeaways
- Experience the best rum variety in the Cayman Islands with top-notch distilleries and brands
- Enjoy a stylish rum-tasting journey as you explore the island’s rich rum heritage
- Discover the unique blend of tropical rum and island culture that makes Cayman Island rum so special
A Rumtastic Adventure in the Cayman Islands
Once upon a time in the Caribbean, someone (you could call them a genius) discovered that fermenting sugarcane byproducts resulted in an intoxicatingly tantalizing spirit. And just like that, the Caribbean rum industry was born! Whether spiced, dark, or light, rum has evolved from pirate provisions to modern-day mixology masterpieces. Rum’s rich history comes to life in the Cayman Islands as you savor each sip, surrounded by a tropical paradise.
Early Beginnings
Rum’s roots in the Cayman Islands are deeply intertwined with the history of the Caribbean itself. As with many of the islands in this region, rum was introduced during the era of colonial expansion in the 17th century. The conditions were ripe in the Caribbean, including the Cayman Islands, for the cultivation of sugar cane, the primary ingredient in rum.
Distillation techniques brought by the European settlers, combined with abundant sugar cane, led to the birth of Caribbean rum. During this time, rum became an integral part of Cayman’s socio-economic fabric. It was a popular beverage and served as a trade commodity, playing a crucial role in the triangular trade between the Americas, Europe, and Africa.
Over time, the rum industry experienced ups and downs, influenced by external factors like war, trade laws, and shifts in global commodity prices. Despite these challenges, the resilient spirit of rum-making continued in the Cayman Islands.
Modern Influence
In the modern era, rum has played an even more significant role in the Cayman Islands. It’s not just a historical artifact but also a symbol of the islands’ identity and culture and a pillar of the local economy.
Rum-making has evolved over the centuries, blending traditional methods with new techniques to enhance flavor profiles and achieve greater consistency. Cayman rum is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, from selecting quality sugar cane to the fermentation, distillation, and aging process. Some local distilleries, like the producer of Seven Fathoms, have introduced unique elements into their production, like underwater aging of rum barrels, which gives the rum a distinctive and rich flavor.
Today, rum contributes significantly to the economy of the Cayman Islands. Not only does it generate revenue through local sales and exports, but it also stimulates tourism. Visitors from around the world flock to the islands for distillery tours and rum-tasting experiences, further cementing rum’s role in the Cayman Islands socio-economic landscape. The continued growth and development of the rum industry reflect the islands’ enduring spirit and respect for their cultural heritage.
Where to taste them
There is one rum distillery in the Cayman Islands: the Cayman Spirits Co. Distillery (website). It makes one of the most famous rums in the Caribbean, the Seven Fathoms. After a tour of the Cayman Spirits Distillery, you should now enjoy a rum in one of the top beach bars of Grand Cayman.
Upstairs at Kaibo
Set sail to the Upstairs at Kaibo, a hidden gem on the scenic shores of Cayman Kai. This restaurant offers a unique dining experience in the heart of palm trees and sandy beaches. Your taste buds won’t be disappointed with their selection of rum and delectable seafood, making it the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the sunset.
With a vast collection of premium rums from around the world, your inner pirate will feel right at home. Best of all, you rum connoisseurs, you’ll cherish the opportunity to join their exclusive Rare Rum Supper Club, with access to specials and limited releases.
Rum Point Club
Ready for your next adventure? Swashbuckle your way to the Rum Point Club. With its tranquil atmosphere, soak in the sea breeze as you enjoy its exquisite array of rum and mouthwatering seafood.
A perfect spot for relaxation and entertainment, Rum Point Club offers an experience like no other in the Caribbean. Leave your compass at home – because this idyllic paradise is one destination you won’t want to escape!
On a sunset cruise
Some of the best rums that you can find in Grand Cayman are served onboard the sunset cruises that every evening explore the waters around the island, looking for the best spots to observe the sun going down. A perfect situation for a tasty sip!
Sampling the Rum
Sampling the local rums is an essential part of your Cayman Islands experience.
The Best Local Rums
Here are some of the top picks that showcase the islands’ unique rum-making tradition:
- Seven Fathoms Premium Rum: This rum is uniquely aged under the sea, lending a smooth, rich flavor. Its profile includes hints of vanilla, banana, and caramel with a warm, oaky finish. Best enjoyed neat or on the rocks to appreciate its complexity. Probably the best rum in the Cayman Islands.
- Governor’s Reserve Spiced Rum: Produced by the Cayman Spirits Co., this rum is infused with a blend of traditional Caribbean spices, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and warmth. It’s excellent in cocktails or served over ice.
- Hammock Bay Flavoured Rums: Hammock Bay offers a variety of flavored rums like coconut, banana, and pineapple. These are perfect for those who like a little tropical twist to their drinks and are ideal for creating flavorful cocktails.
- Cayman Gold Rum: A staple in the islands, Cayman Gold is a classic Caribbean rum, smooth and mellow with brown sugar and spice notes. It’s versatile, making it a perfect base for various cocktails.
Tasting Guide
Tasting rum is an art, much like tasting wine or whiskey. Here’s how to get the most out of your tasting experience:
- Observation: Pour a small amount of rum into a glass and observe the color. It can tell you a lot about the rum – lighter rums are usually younger and have a lighter body, while darker rums are often aged and have a fuller body.
- Swirl: Swirl the rum gently in the glass. This helps to release the rum’s aroma.
- Smell: Take a moment to smell the rum. Try to identify the different scents – fruity, spicy, sweet, or woody. Remember, there’s no wrong answer – it’s all about what you personally pick up.
- Taste: Take a small sip and let it wash over your palate. Try to identify the flavors. Is it sweet? Spicy? Smooth? Dry? What are the specific flavors you can taste?
- Finish: Pay attention to the aftertaste or ‘finish’. How long do the flavors linger? Is the finish smooth or harsh? The finish can define the quality of the rum.
Remember to cleanse your palate between different rums, and most importantly, take your time. Tasting is about savoring and understanding the rum, not rushing through it. Happy tasting!
Rum-Based Cocktails and Cuisine
Rum’s role in the Cayman Islands goes beyond a simple spirit—it also forms an essential part of the local cuisine and cocktail culture, adding a uniquely Caribbean flair to dishes and drinks alike.
Classic Caribbean Cocktails
The islands are renowned for their exotic cocktails, many highlighting the local rums. Here are some popular rum-based cocktails and how to make them:
- Cayman Lemonade: A refreshing mix of coconut rum, vodka, pineapple juice, and a splash of grenadine. Combine the ingredients over ice in a highball glass, stir, and garnish with a slice of lemon.
- Dark ‘n’ Stormy: This cocktail uses dark rum and ginger beer for a spicy-sweet combo. Fill a glass with ice, add 2 oz of dark rum, and top with ginger beer. Stir gently and garnish with a lime wedge.
- Rum Runner: A fruity cocktail with a strong rum kick, it combines banana liqueur, blackberry liqueur, orange juice, pineapple juice, grenadine, and both white and dark rums. Blend the ingredients with ice and serve in a hurricane glass.
- Mudslide: Originally from the Cayman Islands, this dessert-like cocktail mixes coffee liqueur, Irish cream, and vodka, often with a swirl of chocolate inside the glass. Blend the ingredients with ice and serve in a chilled glass.
Remember to use quality Cayman Island rum for the best results!
Rum-Infused Local Dishes
Rum isn’t just for drinking in the Cayman Islands—it’s also used to enhance local dishes, adding a depth of distinctly Caribbean flavor. Here are some local dishes where rum makes a guest appearance:
- Rum Cake: Perhaps the most famous rum-infused dish, the Cayman Islands are renowned for their rich and moist rum cakes. Bakeries across the islands, like the famous Tortuga Rum Cake Company, offer these cakes packed with local rum.
- Rum-Grilled Lobster: Many restaurants add a splash of rum to their grilled lobster dishes, flambéing it tableside for a dramatic effect. The rum adds a sweet, smoky flavor to the lobster.
- Rum and Pepper Shrimp: This popular dish uses rum in its marinade, giving the shrimp a uniquely Caribbean twist.
- Bananas Foster: While not indigenous to the Cayman Islands, this dessert is prevalent in many local restaurants. It’s a rich mix of bananas, rum, and brown sugar, served over ice cream.
Where to Buy Cayman Island Rum
When it comes to buying authentic Cayman Island rum, you’re spoilt for choice. From distilleries offering their own artisanal bottles to local markets teeming with diverse options, here are some of the best places to procure this flavorful Caribbean spirit.
Cayman Spirits Co. Distillery
An obvious starting point when buying rum is at the distillery. The Cayman Spirits Co. Distillery is located in George Town. It offers a wide range of spirits, including its signature Governor’s Reserve Rum and the famous undersea-aged Seven Fathoms Rum. After a tour and tasting, you can purchase a bottle (or two) to take home.
Address: 68 Bronze Road, Georgetown, Grand Cayman
Open: Mon-Sat / 9 am-5 pm
Phone number: +1 345-943-4786
Tour price: 15 USD per person
Local Liquor Stores
There are several local liquor stores where you can find a diverse array of Cayman Islands rums. Some top spots include:
- Blackbeard’s (website): With multiple locations across the islands, Blackbeard’s is a popular liquor store chain that carries an impressive selection of local and international rums.
- Big Daddy’s Liquor Store: Located in Seven Mile Beach (8J78+57X, West Bay Rd), Big Daddy’s is another excellent place to find local rums. They offer a selection that covers all price ranges, from affordable picks to high-end artisanal bottles.
Local Markets
Local markets also offer a selection of rums and often allow you to support smaller, lesser-known distilleries. The Farmers & Artisans Market at Camana Bay is held every Wednesday and is a great place to find local artisanal rums. Meanwhile, the Craft Market in George Town allows you to meet local producers and sample some of their rums before purchasing.