A Journey Through Time and Taste

As I strolled through the cobblestone streets of Arucas, the salty breeze from the nearby ocean whispered tales of adventure. My partner and I had heard whispers of the legendary Ron Arehucas Distillery, a place where history and modernity dance together in a symphony of flavors. With a free afternoon on our hands, we decided to dive into the world of rum, a spirit as rich and complex as the waves I ride.

The distillery, nestled in the heart of Arucas, greeted us with its charming facade. Our guide, a passionate storyteller, led us through the hallowed halls of one of Europe’s oldest rum cellars. The air was thick with the scent of aging rum, a tantalizing promise of the tasting to come. As we wandered through the facility, we marveled at the blend of historic charm and cutting-edge machinery. The juxtaposition was a testament to the distillery’s commitment to preserving tradition while embracing innovation.

The Art of Rum Making

Our guide delved into the intricacies of rum production, revealing secrets passed down through generations. Unlike many distilleries, Ron Arehucas uses local sugar cane juice rather than molasses, crafting their rum in an Agricole style. This method, combined with the use of American oak casks, imparts a unique character to their spirits.

We were captivated by the sight of the massive oak barrels, each one a vessel of time, aging the rum to perfection. The distillery’s dedication to authenticity was evident in their age statements, a refreshing departure from the Solera style often seen elsewhere. Special editions, finished in Pedro Ximenez casks, added an extra layer of intrigue to the experience.

As a former surfer, I’ve always appreciated the art of balance, whether on a board or in a glass. The distillery’s approach to rum making resonated with me, a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity, much like the waves I chase.

A Tasting to Remember

The highlight of our visit was undoubtedly the tasting session. For a modest fee, we sampled five exquisite rums, each one a testament to the distillery’s craftsmanship. The high-end selections, available for an additional refundable charge, were a revelation. The uncolored, unsweetened rums were a pure expression of the distiller’s art, each sip a journey through layers of flavor.

The tasting room buzzed with excitement as fellow adventurers shared their impressions. The camaraderie was infectious, a reminder of the connections forged over shared experiences. As we savored the final drops, the allure of the distillery shop beckoned. With prices significantly lower than anywhere else on the island, including Duty Free, it was impossible to resist taking a piece of the experience home.

As we left the distillery, the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow over Arucas. The day had been a delightful detour from the usual surf and sand, a reminder that adventure can be found in the most unexpected places. If you find yourself with an hour to spare, I highly recommend checking out this tour. Just be sure to plan your transportation accordingly, as the rums are as potent as they are delicious!