Mexico offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes, rich history, and delicious rums. From tropical beaches and cloud forests to ancient ruins and bustling cities, the country’s diverse geography and climate make it an ideal place to produce sugarcane—and, of course, rum. Thanks to its ideal climate in the south, Mexico has emerged as a major rum producer, blending centuries-old sugarcane traditions with modern innovations. Let’s dive into five must-visit rum destinations, starting in the north and heading south.
Founded in Ciudad Valles in 1938, Ron Huasteco Potosí stands as one of Mexico’s oldest rum producers. After reopening in 2019, Distilerías Huasteco has been revitalizing this heritage brand, bringing new employment opportunities and expanding their rum to international markets. Ron Huasteco’s offerings range from the light and smooth Blanco (aged 8 months to 1 year) to the signature Añejo (aged 5 years), and the Extra Añejo, an 8-year-old expression that developed unique flavors after aging through a hurricane! You can visit their boutique in Ciudad Valles, open Monday through Saturday, to sample these locally crafted rums.
Located in Pénjamo, Guanajuato, El Ron Prohibido (“The Forbidden Rum”) captures history in a bottle. Inspired by an accidental 17th-century practice, the rum develops its complex flavor profile by aging in barrels previously used for wine. This process creates a unique blend, mixing rich wine aromas with rum. The brand offers several varieties, including the El Ron Prohibido Silver and the Solera-aged Reserva and Gran Reserva, aged for up to 15 years in PX Sherry casks. Casa Corralejo, where you can taste both tequila and rum, makes for a comprehensive visit.
For a deep dive into Mexico’s rum heritage, visit Casa Tarasco Spirits in Michoacán, home to the region’s distinctive Charanda. The Pacheco family has been producing Charanda since 1907, with Maestra destiladora Miriam Pacheco at the helm today. Charanda, only made in Michoacán, draws its name from the area’s rich volcanic soil, which imparts unique qualities to the rum. Try Uruapan Charanda Blanco, the unaged expression, or the Añejo, aged 22 months in ex-bourbon barrels, to experience the best of Michoacán’s sugarcane craftsmanship.
Crafted in the Sierra Mixe Baja mountains, Tso’ok Rum represents a true artisanal approach. This rum, made from wild Java sugarcane harvested by hand, undergoes fermentation in clay pots and double-distillation in copper pot stills. With each batch crafted in small quantities, Tso’ok delivers flavors influenced by traditional methods and local ingredients. Distiller Brigide Gutierrez oversees the production process, creating a truly unique unaged rum and an aged version matured in French oak for over six months.
Located in Tapachula, Chiapas, Rones de México blends sustainable practices with rich flavors. Their collection includes the recognizable Deadhead Rum (famous for its shrunken monkey head bottle) and Ron Bonampak. The distillery produces both sugarcane juice and molasses-based rums, aging them in ex-Rye and Chiapan oak barrels to achieve unique, layered flavors. With a commitment to transparency and eco-friendly production, Rones de México has partnered with the Saving Our Sharks Foundation to protect marine life. Plan a visit to their distillery for a full tour and tasting.
Whether you’re drawn to the rugged mountains or coastal beaches, Mexico’s diverse rum industry offers something for everyone. From small-batch artisanal producers to larger, historic distilleries, each destination provides a unique flavor of the country’s heritage and creativity. Let these five rum stops inspire your next adventure, blending culture, history, and the delicious taste of Mexican rum.
This article was based on The Rum Geography‘s Rum Guide to Mexico 2024. Check the full guide here!
The image of the article is courtesy of © Lunamarina via Canva.com
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