Key West, Florida, known for its laid-back island vibe, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife, also has a hidden treasure that attracts rum enthusiasts from all corners of the globe—the Key West Legal Rum Store. Whether you are a casual drinker or a rum connoisseur, this distillery and store should be at the top of your list when visiting the southernmost city in the continental United States. Let’s dive into why this unique rum shop is a must-visit and what makes it special.
A Brief History of Key West Legal Rum Store
The Key West Legal Rum Store was founded by Paul Menta, a local chef, kiteboarding legend, and all-around islander. Paul’s passion for Key West’s rich history, its pirate lore, and its long-standing love affair with rum led him to create this distillery. Established in 2013, Key West Legal Rum is part of the island’s tradition of smuggling rum during the Prohibition era. The name “Legal Rum” serves as a playful nod to the time when rum was considered contraband.
Locally Crafted, Award-Winning Rum
At the heart of the Key West Legal Rum Store is its hand-crafted, small-batch rum. What makes the rum so unique is the dedication to using high-quality ingredients. The distillery sources organic Florida sugarcane and uses a proprietary, eco-friendly distillation process. The result? Smooth, flavorful rum that’s perfect for sipping or mixing.
In fact, the rums produced at Key West Legal Rum Store have won numerous awards. Their products are known for their exceptional smoothness and rich flavors, making them a standout in the world of craft rum.
Must-Try Rum Varieties
When visiting the Key West Legal Rum Store, there’s an array of rum flavors that you absolutely cannot miss:
- Legal Rum – White: A smooth, clean white rum that serves as the base for many cocktails.
- Legal Rum – Key Lime: Infused with the zest of fresh Key limes, this flavor captures the essence of the Florida Keys.
- Legal Rum – Vanilla Brûlée: A luxurious blend of creamy vanilla flavors with a caramel undertone, perfect for dessert-style drinks.
- Legal Rum – Cuban Coffee: Inspired by the Cuban culture of Key West, this dark rum is infused with espresso for a bold, rich taste.
Each of these rums is crafted with precision and care, ensuring that every sip you take transports you straight to the islands.
The Distillery Experience
The Key West Legal Rum Store offers more than just bottles on the shelf. Visitors have the opportunity to take part in an immersive distillery tour, where they can see firsthand how rum is made from start to finish. Paul Menta, the founder, often leads the tours himself, sharing his knowledge of rum-making, the island’s history, and, of course, some great rum-tasting opportunities.
The distillery is located in the heart of Old Town Key West, making it a convenient stop for those exploring the area. The tours are educational, fun, and come with the added bonus of sampling the different varieties of rum. Whether you’re curious about the distillation process or just want to indulge in a tasting experience, the Key West Legal Rum Store has you covered.
The Perfect Souvenir: Legal Rum to Take Home
A trip to Key West Legal Rum Store is not complete without purchasing a bottle (or two) to take home. These make excellent souvenirs or gifts for friends and family. The store offers beautifully designed bottles that represent the island’s charm, complete with tropical artwork and pirate-inspired labels.
For those unable to make it to the island, the store also offers online shopping with nationwide shipping, so you can experience a little piece of Key West from the comfort of your own home.
Rum Cocktails and Recipes
What’s better than sipping rum on a sunny afternoon? Sipping it in a handcrafted cocktail! Key West Legal Rum Store offers customers a variety of cocktail recipes featuring their delicious rums. Whether you’re mixing up a classic Mojito with their White Rum or crafting a dessert-like treat with the Vanilla Brûlée rum, the possibilities are endless. Popular recipes include:
- Key Lime Rum Punch: A tropical blend of Key Lime rum, coconut water, and fresh pineapple juice.
- Cuban Coffee Martini: A robust mix of Cuban Coffee rum, cold brew espresso, and a splash of cream.
The store even hosts cocktail-making classes, so you can become your own bartender and learn the best techniques for using their rums in drinks.
Why You Should Visit
Key West Legal Rum Store is more than just a distillery—it’s a cultural experience that captures the essence of the island. Here’s why it’s worth a visit:
- Authentic Craftsmanship: Each bottle of rum is crafted on-site, with an emphasis on quality and flavor.
- Eco-Friendly Practices: The distillery focuses on sustainable methods, ensuring a small environmental footprint.
- Local Ingredients: From Florida-grown sugarcane to fresh Key limes, the ingredients are locally sourced, adding to the authenticity of the product.
- Engaging Tours and Tastings: Visitors can learn, taste, and appreciate the art of rum-making while interacting with the passionate team behind the brand.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a lifelong rum lover or just someone looking to experience a slice of Key West culture, the Key West Legal Rum Store is a must-see. Its award-winning rums, rich history, and commitment to quality make it a standout attraction in a city full of charm. So, next time you’re in the Florida Keys, stop by, sample some rum, and take home a piece of Key West’s spirited past.
