United States Of America
The United States is woven into the fascinating saga of rum—a spirit that shaped colonial economies, kindled revolutionary fervor, faded into curiosity, and now enjoys a vibrant modern revival.
American rum production dates back to the 17th century, when local distilleries emerged as farmers seized opportunities with the advent of affordable molasses imports—making rum one of the first domestically produced and labeled spirits in the colonies. In colonial America, rum was omnipresent—from naval rations to tax payments.
The 1771 molasses protest in Portsmouth even foreshadowed the coming Revolution. Yet, by the early 19th century, rum had declined in favor of whiskey, buoyed by legislative incentives and the expansion of grain agriculture.
Prohibition in the 20th century further dimmed rum’s prominence, though it thrived as an essential ingredient in speakeasy cocktails. In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, however, rum experienced a renaissance, as craft distilleries across the U.S. began exploring unique techniques and local terroir.
Today, more than 230 U.S. distilleries produce rum, showcasing a spectrum of styles—from vibrant agricole rums made with fresh cane juice to innovative blends and heritage releases. Flagship names like Bayou Rum (Louisiana), KōHana Agricole Rum (Hawaii), and Privateer Rum (Massachusetts) are celebrated for their distinct regional character and artisanal craftsmanship.
Noteworthy artisanal producers include:
KōHana Distillery (Hawaii): Specializing in single-variety cane agricole rums bursting with unique tropical flavors.
Owney’s NYC Rum (Noble Experiment, New York): Bringing classic pot-still character and bold flavor to the Northeast metropolitan palate.
Privateer Rum (Massachusetts): Known for its oak-aged expressions, such as Navy Yard and Queen’s Share, which exemplify depth and complexity.
St. George Spirits (California): Producing vibrant agricole-style rum from freshly harvested California cane, highlighting regional terroir.Richland Rum (Georgia): A single-estate rum, born from a revival of Southern sugarcane farming and a commitment to field-to-glass authenticity.
Together, these producers reflect rum’s dynamic American evolution—from colonial beginnings and Prohibition-era decline to today’s diverse craft landscape, defined by regional terroir, sustainability, and creative innovation.
