Key West, the southernmost point of the United States, is a tropical paradise known for its pristine beaches, laid-back lifestyle, and colorful culture. But what many visitors may not know is that the island has a long and fascinating history of rum production and consumption. From pirates to Prohibition, the story of rum in Key West is as complex and flavorful as the spirit itself.
In this article, we will explore the history of rum in Key West and its unique flavors, as well as the best places to taste and experience this iconic island beverage.
The History of Rum in Key West
From Pirates to Plantations: Early Rum Production
The Cuban Connection: A Boost for Key West Rum
Prohibition and Beyond: Rum Running in the Keys
The Flavors of Key West Rum
Sweet and Spicy: Key West Spiced Rum
Tropical Delight: Coconut and Pineapple Infused Rums
Smooth and Sophisticated: Aged Rums
Tasting Key West Rum: Where to Go and What to Try
Distillery Tours and Tastings
Beach Bars and Cocktail Lounges
Rum-Infused Cuisine: Where Food and Drink Meet
The History of Rum in Key West
From Pirates to Plantations: Early Rum Production
Key West’s history is closely tied to the sea and its early inhabitants were mainly fishermen and pirates who used the island as a base for their activities. Rum, which was a popular drink among sailors, quickly became a staple of life on the island. In fact, the first recorded rum distillery in the United States was established in Key West in 1823.
At that time, rum was made from molasses, a by-product of sugar cane production, which was abundant in the Caribbean. Key West had its own sugar plantations, and distillers used locally produced molasses to make their rum. The process was simple and involved fermenting molasses with water and yeast, and then distilling the resulting liquid.
The Cuban Connection: A Boost for Key West Rum
In the late 19th century, Key West’s rum industry received a boost from its close proximity to Cuba. Cuba was a major producer of sugar cane, and its rum was renowned for its quality and flavor. Key West distillers began importing Cuban molasses and blending it with their own locally produced rum to create a unique and distinctive product.
Prohibition and Beyond: Rum Running in the Keys
The Prohibition era in the United States, which lasted from 1920 to 1933, was a boom time for rum runners in the Florida Keys. Key West, with its location just 90 miles from Cuba, became a major hub for the illegal trade in rum and other alcoholic beverages.
Rum runners used fast boats to transport their cargo from Cuba to the Keys, where it was distributed to speakeasies and other establishments across the country. The trade was risky, with rum runners facing danger from the law as well as from rival gangs. Despite the risks, many became wealthy from the trade and the legend of the Key West rum runner was born.
The Flavors of Key West Rum
Sweet and Spicy: Key West Spiced Rum
One of the most popular types of rum in Key West is spiced rum. Made by adding a blend of spices and flavors to the rum, this variety is known for its rich, sweet, and spicy taste. Some of the most common spices used in spiced rum include cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, and allspice.
Tropical Delight Coconut and Pineapple Infused Rums
Coconut and pineapple infused rums are another popular type of rum in Key West. These rums are made by infusing the rum with coconut or pineapple and then allowing the flavors to meld together over time. The result is a smooth, tropical-flavored rum that is perfect for sipping on a hot summer day. These rums are also great for adding a little bit of island flavor to cocktails and other drinks.
Smooth and Sophisticated: Aged Rums
Aged rums are another type of rum that is gaining popularity in Key West. These rums are made by aging the rum in barrels for an extended period of time, allowing the flavors to develop and deepen over time. The longer the rum is aged, the more complex and sophisticated the flavor becomes. Aged rums are often sipped straight or on the rocks, but they can also be used in cocktails that require a richer, more complex flavor.
Tasting Key West Rum: Where to Go and What to Try
Distillery Tours and Tastings
One of the best ways to experience Key West rum is by taking a distillery tour and tasting. There are several rum distilleries on the island, including the Hemingway Rum Company and the Key West First Legal Rum Distillery, that offer tours and tastings of their products. These tours are a great way to learn about the history of rum in Key West, as well as the production process and the unique flavors of each distillery’s rum.
Beach Bars and Cocktail Lounges
Key West is home to a wide variety of beach bars and cocktail lounges that serve up delicious rum cocktails. From classic mojitos to more exotic concoctions like the Hemingway daiquiri, these bars and lounges offer a taste of the island’s vibrant culture and laid-back lifestyle. Some of the best beach bars to try in Key West include the Sunset Pier, Schooner Wharf Bar, and the Green Parrot.
Rum-Infused Cuisine: Where Food and Drink Meet
In addition to drinks, rum also plays a role in many of Key West’s signature dishes. From rum-glazed shrimp to rum cake, the island’s cuisine is infused with the flavors of this iconic beverage. Some of the best restaurants to try rum-infused dishes in Key West include the Conch Republic Seafood Company, Blue Heaven, and Latitudes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, rum has played a significant role in the history and culture of Key West, and the island’s distilleries and bars offer a wide variety of unique and flavorful rums to sample and savor. Whether you prefer sweet and spicy spiced rum or smooth and sophisticated aged rum, there is a Key West rum out there for everyone to enjoy. So raise a glass to this iconic island beverage and experience the rich flavors and history of Key West rum for yourself.
