Rums to purchase on cruise?

[jrl915]

I'm going on a cruise this spring with stops at San Juan, Tortola, St. Maarten, and Nassau. It's a family cruise, so there'll likely be no distillery tours. I intend to try to pick up the 15-year Pusser's in the Bicentenary decanter while on Tortola, but need some more suggestions. I like Zacapa 23, ED 15, and Zaya, and I'm considering the following that aren't found in my area:

Zacapa Centenario XO
Clement Cuvee Homere
Centenario Fundacion XX
Opthimus 15, 21, or 25
Cubaney 18 or 21

First, are these along the same lines as those I enjoy and might they be available where I'm stopping, or am I off base? Any other suggestions for rums and easily accessed stores at the mentioned ports? Thanks.

[Edward Hamilton]

While you are on Tortola you may find some of the Cuban rums that aren't found in the states. You probably won't find the rums from the DR on those islands but I'd look for Barrilito 3 star in San Juan. In St Maarten you may find Neisson Reserve which is considered to be the best from Martinique and less expensive than the Clement you mention.

Enjoy the cruise.

[Jimpatt]

I agree, get some Barillito in S.J. I can't remember if there is an number of stars higher, but get the highest star which in fact maybe 3 stars.

[Edward Hamilton]

Three stars is the premium rum from Barrilito.

[leisure master]

When you are in St Maarten, be sure to find the Guavaberry Company - they have a house in downtown Phillipsburg that looks like a ginger bread house decorated for Christmas.

You can try just about everything they sell there, including various specialty rums and other food products - you will not walk out empty handed.

[Ellis34]

Originally Posted by jrl915

I'm considering the following that aren't found in my area

There will be a lot of rums not found in the States, Canada, or even off the island you are on. You are going to find a lot of great local rums. Still, some of the ones that you can get in your area may be different or in different packaging than at home. This has happened to me. I have one suggestion; bring an empty suitcase!

By the way, get all the Cubans that you can.

[jrl915]

Thanks for the valuable input--I'll keep a lookout for the Neisson Reserve and the Barrilito. Should I have any concern about bringing Cuban rums back to the states? If not, any recommendations?

[RonJames]

I have my doubts about the availability of some on your list. PR rums don't sound like some of your favorites but heres some. Bacardi Reserva Limitada $90, Don Q Gran Anejo $50, Ron del Barrilito 3 estrellas $30. All can be found in san juan when the cruise ship docks. Also...the bacardi factory is across the bay from san juan...a short water taxi ride. Just about everyone thats done it loves it.

[Edward Hamilton]

Originally Posted by leisure master

When you are in St Maarten, be sure to find the Guavaberry Company -

I can't believe I forgot that one, thanks for adding that one leisure master.
For other things that you won't find anywhere else the supermarkets, a few blocks off the more expensive waterfront has some good deals.

The biggest selection of rum on St Martin is on the French side at Match, just north of the marina. And there is usually at least one small private label rum brand selling rhum in the marina.

[JMac]

In Tortola..try to find Tortuga 12 year.

In my experience since you are generally going to be in the Western Caribbean; I havent been that lucky in getting rhum agricole in that region.

As for the Cuban rum...if caught by US Customs they will seize it but I don't know if there is a fine involved. However try to get HC 7 or HC barrell strength.