National Rum Day may be Aug. 16, but every day is rum day in Jamaica, with travellers able to sip the rich, molasses-based liquor all year round courtesy of a host of classic distillers and in a variety of locations – from simple road-side bars to historic sugar plantations.

Whether it’s on your own, or on tour with the likes of Island Routes or Chukka (an academic tour for ‘research purposes,’ as it were!), here are few of the legendary locales to try the island’s signature spirit – any time you choose.

Appleton Estate: A name synonymous with Jamaican spirits, Appleton Estate is a must-see for rum enthusiasts interested in learning more about the distillery’s signature cane-to-cocktail process. The Joy Spence Appleton Estate Rum Experience begins with a welcome cocktail followed by a multi-sensory tour that includes stops at the distillery, the aging house, and a guided tasting of three different signature rums.

Lester’s Bar: Named for legendary Montego Bay artist Michael Lester, this storied hotel bar at Half Moon boasts one of the island’s largest collection of rums. Guests can choose from more than 50 sought-after spirits sourced from distilleries in Jamaica and across the Caribbean, including an exceptional selection of high-priced premium bottles. Rums can be ordered on the rocks, swirled in a signature cocktail, or in sampling flights perfect for sipping.

Hampden Sugar Estate: One of the oldest sugar estates in Jamaica, Hampden Estate is a working distillery in Trelawny renowned for its intensely flavourful pot still rums. Guided tours take rum enthusiasts on a two-hour journey into the heart of the 260-year-old rum-making process. While on site, visitors are encouraged to explore the verdant estate grounds and the colonial-style Hampden Great House.

Blackwell Rum Bar: For a romantic rum bar experience, it doesn’t get much better than this oceanside hideaway in Negril. Accessed by a winding coral staircase down to the water’s edge, this picturesque watering hole sets the mood with flickering candles embedded in the volcanic cliffside. The menu’s signature cocktails aptly star Blackwell Rum, a smooth and dark spirit founded in Jamaica by Island Records founder Chris Blackwell.

With glass purposefully in hand, we at Travel Industry Today continue our series on some of the planet’s best bars, patios and rooftop venues. For more articles in the series, click here:

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