The St. Kitts Tourism Authority is launching a brand-new island experience: the Kittitian RumMaster programme. Those travelling to St. Kitts can take part in this unique rum programme, which features both practical and theoretical courses taught by two of the island’s renowned rum experts. Through the programme, visitors will learn about the history of rum and distilling, gain hands-on experience creating spiced rum, and discover the process of creating rum-based cocktails.
This tour is ideal for rum aficionados and those looking to learn more about the spirit. Guests will become a Kittitian RumMaster by attending two classes taught by local rum producers and owners. The first class takes place at Wingfield Estate, home of the Caribbean’s oldest surviving rum distillery. Led by Jack Widdowson (Founder of Old Road Rum Company), the course covers rum theory, production methods, and history. Guests will also have the chance to label their own rum bottle while exploring the preserved aqueduct, chimney, mill house, boiling house, and lime kiln.
The second class is held at the lively Spice Mill Restaurant on Cockleshell Bay and is run by Roger Brisbane. Here, guests will learn about spiced rum creation, rum-blending techniques, and cocktail creations, as well as tasting different types of rums. Roger Brisbane is also introducing Hibiscus Spirits, a special rum made with locally grown Roselle Hibiscus calyx (sorrel) to create a natural red colour.
Details of each course are as follows, with a certificate earned after completing both courses:
Visit Wingfield Estate – home of Old Road Rum, and the oldest surviving rum distillery in the Caribbean:
- Introduction of Rum
- History of Rum in St. Kitts
- Rum production methods
- Learning How to Taste + Identify Flavour Profiles
- Tour the estate
- Label your own rum bottle
Visit Spice Mill – home of Hibiscus Spirits:
- Learn how to create spiced rum
- Methodology of creating classic rum drinks
- Learn nuances of creating rum cocktails
- Rum appreciation methods
Bookings for the Kittitian RumMaster programme cost $150 per person. For booking information, please visit Our Stories | St Kitts Tourism