Let me start by saying that I am not a big rum drinker. However, my recent trip to Puerto Rico completely changed my perspective on this versatile liquor. From the moment I arrived, I found myself immersed in various rum experiences that showcased the true warmth and spirit of the island.

My journey began in Old San Juan, a place that beautifully blends old-world charm with modern sophistication. As I strolled along the cobblestone streets, surrounded by Spanish colonial buildings, I couldn’t help but be transported to another time. The towering San Juan Bautista Cathedral and the imposing fortress of San Felipe del Morro only added to the enchanting atmosphere.

To truly indulge in the rum culture of Old San Juan, I joined a tour with Rum Runners. Our first stop was Mezzanine, a historic building that used to be the headquarters of the Puerto Rican Nationalist Party. Here, I sipped on a “Rum Sunset” cocktail while taking in the rich history that surrounded me. At El Batey, a local favorite, the bartender prepared a unique tamarind-based drink called “La Loma” that left me craving for more. And at La Cubanita, I savored the “Mike Billions” cocktail, which had a beautiful reddish-pink color thanks to hibiscus petals.

But it wasn’t just about the drinks; the historical tidbits shared by our guide were equally fascinating. In Plaza San Jose, I learned about the statue of Juan Ponce de León, a symbol of Puerto Rico’s colonial past. The statue’s tilt, it turns out, is a result of numerous times it has been pulled down during protests. In fact, just last year, it was toppled to protest the visit of the Spanish king.

Venturing across the bay, I found myself at the Bacardi House. While the brand has its roots in Cuba, it has become a beloved part of Puerto Rican culture. There, I had the opportunity to sample different Bacardi rums, both straight and in cocktail form. The richness of the flavors spoke to the craftsmanship and dedication that goes into every bottle.

Next, I made my way to Caguas, where I discovered the perfect pairing of cigars and chocolates with rum. The Taino people, Puerto Rico’s first inhabitants, held tobacco in high regard for its spiritual and medicinal properties. La Hoja Del Chan, a family-owned cigar company, continues this tradition with their handcrafted cigars. The founder shared with me the art of pairing cigars and rum, a true testament to their passion for their craft.

In addition to cigars, Caguas is also home to Montadero, an artisan chocolate maker. Their chocolates are delicately crafted to bring out the best flavors when paired with rum. Taking a small bite of chocolate, allowing it to melt on my tongue, and then swallowing it with a sip of rum was a truly sublime experience. The sweetness of the chocolate softened the boldness of the rum, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

My final stop was in Jayuya, a mountainous region that offers breathtaking views and exceptional coffee. But it was at La Destilería Craft Spirits where I had my last rum tasting. Set against the backdrop of the rainforest, this certified craft distillery produces award-winning rums on a smaller, more intimate scale. The Bohique Spiced Rum, in particular, captured my heart with its complex flavors. I savored every sip, not wanting to dilute its perfection with anything else.

As I left Puerto Rico, I couldn’t help but reflect on the incredible journey I had embarked upon. My initial disregard for rum had been replaced with a deep appreciation for its versatility and the skill that goes into its creation. Puerto Rico, with its warm and vibrant spirit, had shown me that rum is not just a drink, but a key to uncovering the soul of a place. And if you find yourself on this beautiful island, keep an eye out for Tobi, the furry chief of operations at La Destilería Craft Spirits. He might just add an extra touch of warmth to your rum-filled adventures.