Traveling is not only about experiencing new places through their people and landscapes. It is also about those unexpected moments that reveal a destination’s true spirit. In Aruba, nature captures attention first, with its beaches and desert-like scenery. But beyond that, the island offers another kind of charm; one you can taste. In this new blog edition, we will take you through some of the best distilleries in Aruba, where tradition, creativity, and the locals’ laid-back energy come together. Each one has its own story to tell, filled with flavor and character. Ready to raise a glass? Let’s dive in.
Must visit distilleries in Aruba
Caribbean rum has earned its global reputation, consistently ranking among the top spots in international competitions. Building on that heritage, Aruba’s producers join the movement, adding their own fire to the region’s legacy. From sugarcane blends to fruit infusions, every sip captures a piece of the island’s essence. Here are three spots you shouldn’t miss on your itinerary.
Ocean Z Aruba: Where bubble cocktails meet island elegance
Bodega Papiamento
Bodega Papiamento offers both an online store and a physical location where visitors can purchase their products. Credit: Freepik
Housed in a building that once served as an ice factory, Bodega Papiamento embraces a farm-to-table concept and draws inspiration from the island’s first language. Just as Papiamento blends African dialects with Dutch, Spanish, and Portuguese, the distillery’s Aruba Style rum combines five distinct Caribbean spirits and matures for up to 15 years. Their offerings also include Caribbean Carnival, which, according to their website, is ideal for cocktails and was recognized at the 2023 London Spirit Awards.
Bodega Papiamento provides six unique tastings, each highlighting its products and the island’s rich flavors. Number two, priced at $60 per person, pairs their rums with locally crafted dark chocolates. For $95 per person, tasting four treats guests to a two-hour, five-course dinner featuring salmon with caper dressing, robata-grilled beef tenderloin, and Korean fried chicken with kimchi mayo. Full details are available on their website.
- Address: Werfstraat 7, Oranjestad, Aruba.
- E-mail: info@bodegaspapiamento.com
- Website: https://bodegaspapiamento.com/
Pepe Margo Distillery
When it comes to distilleries in Aruba, Pepe Margo is one to watch. Nestled in a beautifully restored 19th-century home in the historic downtown district, it showcases far more than the typical amber spirits. Guests can experience a range of distinctive creations, from the Rum & Coconut Liqueur, which delivers sweet, nutty flavors with a warm rum finish, to the Aloe Vera Liqueur, whose soft green hue reflects the plant that gives it its name and carries deep local significance.
For those seeking a taste of tradition, the TESORO 1499 Rum takes center stage. Aged for 15 years in the island’s first-ever single barrel, this masterpiece captures Aruba’s history in every sip. Visitors can complete their experience with a one-hour tour for $35, concluding with a sample of the Aruba Ariba cocktail, or select the Barrel Experience at $55, a premium session that highlights the distillery’s skill and artistry.
- Address: Wilhelminastraat 46, Oranjestad, Aruba.
- E-mail: info@pepemargodistillery.com
- Website: https://pepemargodistillery.com/
Wine in Aruba: Where to taste the island’s finest labels
From distilleries to culinary delights: Discover Aruba with Ocean Z
After savoring the rich flavors and distinctive spirits at Aruba’s top distilleries, why let the journey stop there? Ocean Z Hotel provides an ideal base to continue your exploration. Lounge by the sparkling pool, sip our signature bubble cocktail at sunset, or embark on your next excursion to nearby beaches and hidden gems. Every corner of the hotel invites you to relax and immerse yourself in the scenery at your own pace.
For the ultimate culinary adventure, do not miss the chance to download A Delectable Culinary Journey Through Aruba. This guide will transform you into a connoisseur of the island’s must-try dishes, perfectly complementing the spirits you just discovered. Let your taste buds lead the way and elevate your Aruba experience to an entirely new level.
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