Key West First Legal Rum Distillery Tour — Key West, Florida

Discover the Key West First Legal Rum Distillery Tour in Florida

Experience the spirit of the Keys with a visit to the Key West First Legal Rum Distillery Tour — a flavorful journey through island rum making, housed in a historic 1900s Coca-Cola bottling plant. Visitors see how small-batch rums are crafted from pure Florida sugarcane, aged in repurposed bourbon barrels, and flavored naturally with local ingredients. Tastings, aromas, and the charm of Key West combine for an unforgettable stop.

Why it’s special: This is Key West’s original and first legal rum distillery, where island history meets craftsmanship. Every bottle is hand-labeled and distilled on-site, and visitors can sample the “chef-distilled” recipes that celebrate local flavors and sustainable practices.

History/Story of Key West First Legal Rum Distillery

Founded by chef Paul Menta in 2013, the distillery brought rum back to Key West after Prohibition. Located in the old Coca-Cola bottling building, it was reborn as a small-batch operation blending culinary artistry and island tradition. The company’s mission — “Legal Rum for a Legal Island” — nods to the colorful history of smuggling and free spirit that define the Conch Republic.

What You’ll See & Do on the Key West First Legal Rum Distillery Tour

• Walk through the working distillery and fermentation area

• Learn the art of hand-crafting rum from Florida sugarcane

• Enjoy free tastings of classic and seasonal rums

• Smell fresh ingredients like vanilla, key lime, and coconut used in flavoring

• Discover the story of Key West’s rum-running past

Hands-On Elements: Guests can bottle their own rum to take home and sample infusions on-site.
Photo/Video Policy: Photography encouraged throughout the tour.
Souvenirs & Extras: Gift shop with bottles, local crafts, apparel, and rum cakes.

Pricing of Key West First Legal Rum Distillery Tour

Admission: Free (includes guided tour and tastings)
Premium Experience: Optional “Make Your Own Bottle” sessions available for a fee.
Group Tours: Available by appointment for large parties or travel groups.

Practical Info for Visiting Key West First Legal Rum Distillery

Duration: 30–45 minutes
Format: Guided and self-guided options available
Schedule & Seasonality: Open daily, typically 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Audience: Adults 21+, foodies, couples, and travelers seeking a local experience
Accessibility: Fully accessible facility
Safety & Restrictions: Must be 21+ for tastings; minors allowed with guardian
Languages: English
Group & School Visits: Adult group bookings available; no school tours
What to Bring/Wear: Comfortable attire for warm weather
Facilities: Air-conditioned tasting room, restrooms, gift shop
Closures & Downtime: Closed on major holidays

Nearby

• Mallory Square Sunset Celebration — daily street performances and ocean views

• Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum — literary landmark with six-toed cats

• Duval Street — shops, bars, and restaurants at the heart of Old Town

FAQs About Visiting the Key West First Legal Rum Distillery

Do I need to reserve in advance?
No reservations are required for standard tours, but groups should book ahead.

Are tastings included?
Yes — complimentary rum tastings are part of every tour.

Can I buy bottles to take home?
Yes, bottles and exclusive rum infusions are available for purchase on-site.

Is it family-friendly?
Minors are welcome on the tour but cannot participate in tastings.

What makes this rum unique?
It’s handcrafted in small batches using Florida sugarcane and island-inspired ingredients, distilled entirely in Key West.