New Orleans: Guided Rum Distillery Tour and Tasting

If you’re heading to New Orleans and have an interest in spirits or just want a different taste of the city, the Guided Rum Distillery Tour and Tasting at Roulaison Distilling Co. offers a neat peek behind the scenes of Louisiana’s vibrant craft scene. While it’s not a huge, flashy attraction, it’s well worth the modest cost for anyone curious about how rum is made or who simply loves tasting well-crafted spirits.

What really caught our eye—and apparently many others—is how knowledgeable the guides are. You don’t just get a quick walk through; you get a real explanation of the process, and the personal chats with the rum makers make this experience stand out. Plus, the tastings are clearly curated and include some exclusive bottles that you won’t find everywhere.

That said, a potential bump is finding the location —the distillery’s signage isn’t obvious, which can be frustrating if you’re trying to get there easily. Also, with a duration of just about an hour, it’s a quick visit, so don’t expect a full-day adventure. It’s best suited for those who have a particular interest in spirits, local craftsmanship, or are looking for a relaxed, small-group experience.

Overall, if you’re after a personalized, educational peek into the rum-making process and enjoy sampling different spirits, this tour is a great choice. It’s especially good for adults who appreciate good craftsmanship and want to learn something new while visiting New Orleans.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures a personalized experience and plenty of opportunities to ask questions.
• Knowledgeable guides make the process engaging and easy to understand.
• Exclusive tastings include some special-release rums crafted on-site.
• The location can be tricky to find without clear signage, so plan accordingly.
• Tour duration is about one hour, making it a good short activity.
• The cost is very reasonable at only $15 per person, offering good value for the education and tastings.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Rum Tour

This tour at Roulaison Distilling Co. is designed to shed light on the often-hidden art of rum making — from the initial fermentation to the final aging process. It’s a behind-the-scenes look that breaks down complex chemistry and techniques into digestible, interesting insights.

The meeting point is at the distillery, which is tucked away a bit, so be prepared to look for signs. Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by your guide, who is generally described as engaging and well-informed. The small group setting makes it easy to ask questions, which many reviews appreciated, with one reviewer noting, “Andrew did a great job explaining the rum making process while keeping it entertaining.”

The Tour Experience

Once inside, you’ll get an exclusive look at the distillery operations. Seeing the facilities and equipment up close is more than just a glance — it’s a chance to understand the craftsmanship involved. The guide explains each step, including fermentation, distillation, and aging, often peppered with stories about the history and significance of sugar cane in Louisiana and beyond.

A highlight for many is meeting the distillery staff — the skilled rum makers who are passionate about their craft. This personal touch really elevates the experience, making it clear that this is a labor of love rather than just a commercial operation.

Tasting the Rums

The tastings are another big plus. You get to sample five different rums, all crafted on-site. Reviewers mention that the rums are high-quality and some bottles are exclusive releases, which makes the tasting feel special. It’s not just about drinking; it’s about understanding what makes each rum unique.

One guest illuminated this well by saying, “The samples were all really tasty and we purchased bottles to go as well.” This points to the value of the experience — not just the education, but also the opportunity to buy quality spirits directly from the source.

Price and Value

At $15 per person, this tour is remarkably affordable. Considering you get a guided tour, a behind-the-scenes look, and five tastings, the value is impressive. For spirits enthusiasts or anyone curious about how premium rum is made, this is a neat, budget-friendly introduction.

Keep in mind, there’s no hotel pickup or drop-off included, so plan your transportation accordingly. The overall experience is quick but thorough, making it perfect if you’re short on time but still want to enjoy a locally crafted, authentic activity.

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The Pros and Cons

Pros:
– Personalized experience with small groups
– Insightful, engaging guides
– High-quality, exclusive tastings
– Affordable price point
– Informative about the sugar cane industry’s history

Cons:
– Location is a little hard to find without clear signage
– Short duration (about one hour)
– No transportation included
– Strictly for guests 21 and over

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adults who love spirits, craft beverages, or history involving food and industry. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a quiet, informative activity rather than a bustling tourist spot. Craft spirits fans, history buffs, or anyone looking to do something off the beaten path in New Orleans will find this a worthwhile stop.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, because it’s strictly for those 21 and over, as it involves tastings of alcohol.

How long does the tour last?
The tour generally takes about one hour, making it a quick but complete experience.

Is transportation included?
No, you need to make your own way to the distillery; parking is accessible via certain gates.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Bring your ID or passport to verify your age.

Is there any food included?
No, the tour focuses on spirits tasting, so no food is provided.

Will I learn about the history of rum?
Yes, the guide shares insights into sugar cane’s role and the history of rum production.

Are the tastings limited to basic rums?
No, you’ll sample a curated selection, including some exclusive bottles that are crafted on-site.

Final Thoughts

Taking the Roulaison Distilling Co. rum tour offers a genuine, relaxed look into Louisiana’s craft spirit scene. It’s a straightforward, budget-friendly experience that provides a lot of value for those interested in learning about rum’s production and tasting some high-quality local spirits. The guides’ depth of knowledge makes it more than just a tasting — it’s a chance to understand the craftsmanship behind each bottle.

If you’re a spirits lover, curious about local industries, or just want a different kind of activity in New Orleans, this tour fits the bill. It’s a laid-back, friendly experience that’s perfect for a quick afternoon activity and leaves you with a better appreciation for the art of rum-making.

Hope this helps you decide if this unique taste of New Orleans is right for you. Cheers to discovering new flavors and stories on your travels!

You can check availability for your dates here: