Grand Tasting

Distillers make a multitude of decisions that have massive impact on flavor but are largely invisible to rum enthusiasts. Two of America's boldest young distillers (Brett Steigerwaldt from Rosalie Bay and Lyon Rum and Dr. Robyn Smith PhD from rum et al) pull back the curtain so you can taste the difference of two crucial variables, cuts and yeasts. You'll sample different cuts from a single distillation then you'll experience two rums made in identical fashion except for the use of different yeasts — you'll walk away with a deeper understanding of the art of the distiller!

Out of Many, One Rum is an immersive seminar exploring the diversity and unity of Jamaica's legendary rum tradition. The session introduces the island's six distilleries—Appleton Estate, Clarendon, Hampden Estate, Long Pond, New Yarmouth, and Worthy Park—and explains why protecting Jamaican identity through its Geographical Indication (GI) is vital for authenticity and terroir. Guests will learn Jamaica's unique rum classification system, from Common Clean to Plummer, Wedderburn, and Heavy Continental high-ester styles. Through a guided tasting of all 6 distilleries and all 4 styles, participants compare rums from the island's distilleries and experience the diversity of Jamaica Rum.

After Boston Rum Week you'll be primed for your next great rum adventure ... but where to go with your precious time, money and liver? Where (and when) do you get the best tasting experiences & the most fabulous cocktails? What about hotels, car rentals, etc ... and what food and cultural experiences can't be missed? Get a lively run-down of the best countries, distilleries, bars and rum festivals from veteran rum travelers (including Ian Burrell of the UK RumFest and Joe & Myssi, the organizers behind Rum Traveler tours) who will be pouring some of their favorite bottles from their sugarcane journeys ... and get the most out of your next rum expedition!

Yes, those high ester rums are the ultimate neat pours ... but how do you get these funky beasts to pay nice with others in a proper cocktail? Learn the ester-wrangling secrets of three of rum's finest cocktail creators and taste three delectable mini-cocktails that they've selected for this occasion!