our story

The Spirit of Independence: Bayou Rum’s Story

Rum was the original spirit of choice for America’s Founding Fathers, fueling the early days of rebellion before the American Revolution. Before the Boston Tea Party in 1773, there was the lesser-known Portsmouth Molasses Party of 1771—proof that it wasn’t tea, but rum, that helped ignite the spirit of independence. George Washington, John Adams, and Thomas Jefferson were all known to enjoy rum, and as John Adams wrote in 1818, "Molasses was an essential ingredient in American independence. Many great events have proceeded from much smaller causes."

Inspired by this bold heritage, we set out to bring back the lost art of American rum making. In 2011, deep in the heart of Louisiana’s Sugarcane Country, three childhood friends saw an opportunity. Though sugarcane had been cultivated in Louisiana since the 1700s, the craft of producing premium rum had been left behind. Determined to revive America’s original spirit, they pledged to craft a world-class rum using local sugarcane and time-honored methods.

In 2013, the Bayou® Rum Distillery opened its doors in Lacassine, LA. Combining traditional techniques with state-of-the-art technology, Bayou Rum is handcrafted from fermentation to distillation, aging, and bottling. Today, it stands as the #1 Craft Rum in America*, proudly showcasing the bold, independent spirit that defines both our nation’s founders and the Bayou. Discover the spirit of Louisiana. Discover Bayou Rum.