A tropical haven but also home to one of America's oldest distilleries in Key West: Papa's Pilar Distillery. Boasting to be known as the distillery that produces some of Key West's best rum, this distillery takes its name from Ernest Hemingway's roving spirit. This distillery celebrates the master author's love of adventure and fine spirits. Rum aficionado or history buff, a Key West rum distillery tour at Papa's Pilar is one you won't regret.
A Sip of the Past: Key West's First Licensed Rum Distillery
Papa's Pilar Distillery is well-known for being one of the first licensed rum distilleries in Key West, breaking traditions in a region steeped in rum-running history. The "Pilar" name was derived from Hemingway's beloved boat, a tribute to his non-conformist, free-spirited nature. The distillery itself is free-spirited, creating award-winning craft rum that reflects the spirit of Key West.
The Rum-Making Process: From Sugar Cane to Smooth Sips
On Papa's Pilar, heritage comes together with innovation. With high-quality molasses and vodka made from sugarcane, the distillery produces an award-winning combination of rums aged in a solera system that gives depth and complexity. Unlike mass-produced liquor produced in bulk, craft rum made in Key West is made by hand and thus is rich and full-bodied, distinctive relative to mass-produced ones.
Signature Rums: For Every Taste Bud
Papa's Pilar boasts an array of master-blended rum key west in their portfolio, which are:
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Dark Rum: It is aged in bourbon and port wine casks and the taste profile consists of dark vanilla rum, caramel, and spices.
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Blonde Rum: Light tropical rum that boasts key lime rum and citrus zest scents in its forefront.
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Sherry-Finished Rum: Nuttiness and toastiness describe the flavor of this rum, ideal for one who appreciates depth and smoothness.
For the adventurous taste buds, Papa's Pilar also has Creme Brulee Rum, a sweet dessert-flavored rum that works best for sipping or mixology.
Do a Key West Rum Tour
Papa's Pilar, Key West's premier rum distillery, is a definite not-to-be-missed adventure for any traveler to Key West. A tour of a Key West rum distillery at Papa's Pilar gives visitors the whole hands-on experience, wherein they can:
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Have an insider's look into making rum.
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Tastings from the producer of Florida Keys rum, such as their limited small batches.
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A first-ever tour of the life of brash Hemingway and how it has influenced the brand.
Most of them also stop at other local nearby Key West distilleries and taste types before comparing, so it is perfect day out for rum fans.
Rum Cocktails & Pairings: Elevate Your Drinking Experience
How to enjoy Key West rum in style? Try these expertly mixed cocktails:
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Hemingway Daiquiri: Made with Papa's Pilar Blonde Rum, lime juice, grapefruit, and maraschino liqueur.
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Dark & Stormy: Spicy combination of Papa's Pilar Dark Rum, ginger beer, and lime juice.
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Rum Runner: Vintage tropical drink with the best rum runner in Key West and pineapple and banana liqueur.
For an experience truly local in flavor, visit a Key West Cuban coffeehouse and enjoy a Cuban coffee rum shot accompanied by an authentic pastry to tempt your palate as a delicious island treat.
Where to Buy Papa's Pilar Rum & Other Key West Spirits
Wondering how to purchase Key West rum? Papa's Pilar can be purchased at the distillery, special liquor stores, and online. Want Robert the Doll available for purchase, another of the Key West's iconic legends? Locally operated stores have frightful Key West souvenirs to add to your purchase of rum.
Savor the Best of Key West's Rum Culture
A visit to Papa's Pilar Distillery is a journey and not just a tour, but a taste of history, adventure, and high-end rum. Enjoy devil's rum in your drink or the distillery, which is the first legal rum distillery and has a must-visit destination for spirit aficionados.
Planning a Key West rum tasting tour? Visit Papa's Pilar Distillery and celebrate Hemingway's legacy!