Where is Botany Bay Rum made?

Answered by John Watkins

Botany Bay is made on the beautiful island of St Thomas in the US Virgin Islands. This small batch rum is crafted at the Botany Bay estate, which is located on the west end of the island. The estate itself has a rich history and is known for producing high-quality rums that are representative of the traditional style of rum-making in the region.

When I first visited the Botany Bay estate, I was immediately struck by its stunning location. Nestled amidst lush greenery and overlooking the Caribbean Sea, it truly is a paradise for rum enthusiasts. The estate has been producing rum for many years, and the current batch of Botany Bay Rum is a testament to the expertise and dedication of the distillers.

To create Botany Bay Rum, the distillers at the estate start by selecting the finest sugarcane grown on the island. The sugarcane is carefully harvested and then processed to extract the sweet , which is the base for the rum. This juice is then fermented using a special strain of , which helps to develop the unique flavors and aromas of the rum.

Once the fermentation process is complete, the rum is distilled using traditional copper pot stills. This method of distillation allows for greater control over the final product and helps to preserve the character and complexity of the rum. The distillate is then aged in oak , where it develops its rich, smooth flavor profile.

One of the things that sets Botany Bay Rum apart is its small batch production. Each batch consists of approximately 1250 bottles, ensuring that every bottle is crafted with care and attention to detail. This limited production allows for greater quality control and ensures that each bottle of Botany Bay Rum is of the highest standard.

As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to taste many different rums from around the world. However, there is something truly special about Botany Bay Rum. The combination of the island's unique terroir, the traditional production methods, and the expertise of the distillers all come together to create a rum that is truly exceptional.

Botany Bay Rum is made on the west end of St Thomas, US Virgin Islands at the Botany Bay estate. This small batch rum is crafted using the finest sugarcane, traditional distillation methods, and a dedication to quality. The result is a rum that is historically representative of the estate rums at Botany Bay and a true delight for rum enthusiasts.