Guided Distillery Tour & Rum Tasting

Getting a Taste of New Orleans’ Rum Scene: An Honest Look at the Guided Distillery Tour & Rum Tasting

If you’re considering a unique way to get closer to the vibrant spirit culture of New Orleans, a guided distillery tour with rum tasting might just be your cup of… well, rum. This particular experience at Roulaison Distilling Co has earned rave reviews, and with good reason. It’s a small, intimate peek into the world of craft rum-making, led by passionate owners and distillers eager to share their craft.

What we really love about this tour is how personalized it feels. It’s a private experience—meaning no large crowds or rushed explanations—just your group and the distillery team. Plus, you get to sample five different rums, including some exclusive bottlings you won’t find elsewhere. And at just $15 per person, it offers excellent value for those interested in learning about spirits in a friendly, relaxed setting.

However, a note of caution: the distillery is quite small and a bit tricky to find, so you’ll want to plan your arrival carefully. Also, since the tastings are quite potent and the tour is for ages 21 and up, it’s not suitable for children or those who prefer non-alcoholic experiences.

This tour suits adventurous spirits lovers, curious travelers, and anyone interested in the local craft scene. Whether you’re a rum connoisseur or just enjoy a good story behind a good drink, this private tour offers a memorable, behind-the-scenes look at how New Orleans’ award-winning rum is produced.

Key Points

• Intimate Experience: Small group size offers personalized attention from the owners/distillers.
• Educational: Learn the ins and outs of fermentation, distillation, and aging processes.
• Tastings Included: No extra cost for sampling five different rums, including special releases.
• Authentic Insight: Tour and tastings led by passionate, knowledgeable owners.
• Affordable: Great value at $15 per person for a comprehensive, fun experience.
• Accessibility: Located near public transportation, but tricky to find and requires good weather.

An In-Depth Look at the Roulaison Distillery Tour

Setting the Scene: The Distillery & Its Location

Nestled in a modest spot at 2727 S Broad Ave, this distillery is more of a hidden gem than a sprawling facility. Because it’s small, the experience feels more like visiting friends’ private workshop than a tourist trap. The reviews suggest the location might be a little difficult to find at first, so look out for directions or arrive a bit early to get settled in comfortably.

Once there, you’ll notice the warm, welcoming vibe. This isn’t a shiny, commercial operation — it’s a passionate small business pouring heart into every bottle. The owners, including Andrew, a part-owner and guide, are proud of their craft and eager to share it. The setup allows for close-up views of the process, which is perfect for anyone who loves seeing how things are made firsthand.

The Tour Itself: What to Expect

The tour lasts roughly an hour, which is just enough time to get a thorough overview without feeling rushed. It kicks off with an explanation of how rum’s influence in New Orleans and the Caribbean has shaped the distillery’s techniques. You’ll hear about their approach, which might differ from more modern methods, giving you a deeper appreciation of their craft.

Throughout the tour, you’re guided through each step: fermentation, distillation, and aging — all explained clearly and in accessible language. The owner and guide is highly praised for his knowledge and passion, sharing insights that make the process come alive.

The Rum Tastings: A Highlight

The best part? The sampling session. You get to taste five different rums, including distillery-exclusive releases. The reviews point out how generous and flavorful these samples are — some even describe the experience as “mind-blowing.” Because tasting is included, you don’t need to worry about additional costs or feeling rushed.

Many visitors comment on how the tastings are strong but enjoyable, with some noting the importance of hydration — fair advice for anyone new to spirits. The variety of flavors lets you appreciate the nuances of different aging techniques and ingredients, which can be eye-opening if you’re new to rum.

The Authentic Experience & Personal Touches

The reviews consistently mention how friendly, knowledgeable, and passionate the owners are. Andrew, in particular, is singled out for his engaging storytelling and willingness to answer questions. One reviewer described the tour as “very informative,” highlighting the owner’s thorough explanations about the process and history.

Some reviews mention how the size of the business and tour group makes it easier to ask questions and get personalized answers — a major plus if you’re genuinely interested in spirits or want a more meaningful experience than a large-scale tasting room.

Price & Overall Value

At just $15 per person, this tour packs a lot of value. You’re getting a behind-the-scenes look, expert commentary, and five generous tastings, all in an intimate setting. Many reviewers point out how much they learned and enjoyed the experience, considering it a worthwhile investment compared to more commercial or larger distillery tours.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience best suits adventurous spirits enthusiasts, those curious about the craft of rum-making, or travelers seeking a more personal, behind-the-scenes look at local producers. It’s also a good pick for adults who appreciate a relaxed, friendly atmosphere and are open to learning about the nuances of craft spirits.

It’s not ideal for children or non-drinkers, given the age restriction and alcohol focus, but if you’re traveling with adults who enjoy spirits or want a different perspective on New Orleans’ culinary scene, it’s a winner.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This private distillery tour offers a rare glimpse into the world of craft rum in a setting that feels both genuine and personal. It’s a fantastic value, especially considering the quality of the guide and the tasting experience. The owners’ passion shines through, making it feel more like visiting friends’ home bar than a tourist spectacle.

If you’re keen to understand the process behind award-winning rum, taste some exclusive bottles, and enjoy a relaxed, friendly environment, this tour is a smart choice. It’s particularly well-suited for those who love learning about spirits, appreciate small business stories, or just want a fun and informative outing.

However, be prepared for the small size and the potential difficulty locating the distillery. A bit of planning will help you maximize your visit and truly enjoy this under-the-radar experience.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, the tour and tastings are only for ages 21 and up, so it’s not appropriate for children or minors.

How long does the tour last?
The whole experience runs about one hour, including the guided tour and tastings.

Do I need to pay for the tastings separately?
No, the five rum samples are included in the ticket price of $15 per person.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Roulaison Distilling Co, 2727 S Broad Ave, with the tour lasting roughly an hour.

Is the tour private?
Yes, this is a private experience with just your group and the distillery team, making it more personalized.

What’s the best way to find the distillery?
Since it’s a small operation, it’s recommended to arrive early or confirm directions, as it’s located in a back alley and can be a little tricky to find. It’s near public transportation, but allow extra time to locate it comfortably.

If you’re in New Orleans and looking for an engaging, educational, and flavorful experience, this distillery tour is a solid pick. It’s perfect for lovers of spirits, those curious about local craftsmanship, or anyone wanting to add a memorable, personal touch to their trip.