Experience: Rum tasting in Medellin

Experience: Rum tasting in Medellín offers a delightful blend of education and flavor in the vibrant city of Antioquia. For $80 per person, you spend approximately 1.5 hours exploring five premium Colombian rums, learning the intricate process behind their creation, and mastering the art of a classic cocktail. Hosted at the elegant Hotel Marquee, this experience promises a fun, interactive session led by a knowledgeable guide, with options for both English and Spanish speakers.

What we love most is the personalized attention in a private, cozy environment—perfect for those seeking a relaxed yet informative taste of Colombia’s famed spirits. The access to the hotel’s restaurant and rooftop adds a touch of sophistication and a chance to enjoy Medellín’s views afterward. The open groups mean you might meet fellow travelers, which can enhance the convivial spirit.

A small consideration is that bottles are not included, so the focus remains on sampling rather than shopping. Also, the experience is not suitable for pregnant women or minors under 18, which is typical for alcohol tastings but worth noting for family travelers.

This tour suits curious travelers who appreciate learning about local traditions, enjoy tasting new flavors, and want a memorable, sensory experience that’s both fun and educational. If you’re a spirits enthusiast or just curious about Colombian rum, this is a great way to spend an afternoon in Medellín.

Key Points

• Educational and Interactive: Learn about rum’s journey from sugarcane to bottle and how aging affects flavor.
• Tasting Five Premium Rums: Sample top-quality Colombian rums with guided expert insights.
• Cocktail Preparation: Discover how to craft a delicious rum-based drink to impress friends back home.
• Comfortable Setting: Enjoy a private, warm space with access to a rooftop and restaurant.
• Flexible Group Experience: Meet other travelers while learning in a friendly environment.
• Affordable and Convenient: At $80, it offers good value given the detailed instruction and tastings.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Rum Tasting Experience in Medellín

An Ideal Introduction to Colombian Rum

When we first learned about this rum tasting session at Hotel Marquee, what caught our attention was its interactive nature and the range of skills and knowledge shared by the guide. Priced at $80 per person and lasting about an hour and a half, the session offers five different types of top-quality Colombian rums. This isn’t just a tasting; it’s a mini course that reveals the intriguing craftsmanship behind Colombia’s growing reputation in the spirits world.

The location, Cra. 38 #9A-13, inside the stylish Hotel Marquee, provides a comfortable private space that makes it easy to relax and focus on the flavors. The fact that groups can be mixed with other guests adds a social element, perfect for solo travelers or those wanting to meet others.

Why This Experience Really Shines

One of the standout features is the expert host. From the reviews, we see that guides are not only knowledgeable but genuinely passionate about their craft. Carol’s comment highlights this: “Our bartender and teacher clearly loves his job. The room where we had our experience was amazing and he was so nice and friendly and knowledgeable.” This friendly, approachable style makes the learning process enjoyable rather than intimidating, which is especially helpful for newcomers to spirits tasting.

Another aspect we appreciate is the opportunity to learn mixology skills. You’ll get hands-on guidance on how to prepare a rum-based cocktail, a skill you can take home and impress friends with. This added practical element makes the experience more than just sipping—they teach you how to recreate the flavors yourself.

A Consideration: Timing and Group Composition

While the experience is designed to be intimate, the group setting means you may be sharing the space with others, which could affect the ambiance if you prefer total privacy. Also, the availability depends on hotel schedules and host availability, so it’s wise to confirm your reservation at least 24 hours in advance.

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Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurous spirits lovers, curious about Colombian alcohol traditions, or travelers looking for a relaxed, yet enriching activity. It’s especially suited to those who enjoy learning through tasting and want to walk away with new knowledge—and maybe a new cocktail recipe or two.

Detailed Breakdown of What You Can Expect

The Itinerary and Key Highlights

Meeting Point & Duration: The tour begins at the Marquee hotel and typically runs from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm, depending on scheduling. It lasts roughly 1 hour, extending up to 2 hours max if you linger or opt for additional tastings.

The First Part: Learning About Rum
The host will guide you through the process of rum making—covering sugarcane cultivation, fermentation, distillation, and aging. This part is surprisingly engaging, especially when you taste different rums at various stages of aging, observing how flavor profiles develop.

Tasting the Rums
Expect to sample five distinct Colombian rums, each with its own aroma, flavor, and body. The guide will discuss what makes each one unique, helping you evaluate sensory characteristics like aroma, mouthfeel, and aftertaste. These insights are valuable whether you’re a casual sipper or a budding connoisseur.

Mixology & Cocktail Skills
The highlight is learning how to prepare a rum cocktail. The guide will teach you secrets of mixology, enabling you to recreate the drink at home. This training is practical and fun, giving you a skill that extends your enjoyment beyond the session.

Access to Facilities
Guests are welcome to use the restaurant and rooftop after the tasting, making it a perfect opportunity to continue enjoying Medellín’s scenic views and local cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere.

Authenticity and Quality

The focus on top-quality Colombian rums enhances the value. Colombia’s rum industry has been gaining international recognition, thanks to its rich sugarcane heritage and innovative distillation techniques. Sampling five different profiles allows you to understand the nuances of local spirits—an experience that can’t be beaten if you’re interested in the local culture through its drinks.

Authentic Experiences & Reviews

The glowing review from Carol underscores the quality of the guide and setting: “He was so nice and friendly and knowledgeable.” Such warmth is key to a worthwhile tasting experience. From other feedback, travelers also appreciate the stunning venue and the educational yet relaxed atmosphere.

Practical Information and Tips

Cost & Value: At $80, this tour offers a comprehensive tasting experience with expert guidance, making it a worthwhile investment for those interested in local spirits. The price does not include bottles, which keeps the focus on tasting and learning rather than shopping.

Reservations & Availability: It’s essential to reserve at least 24 hours in advance due to limited slots and varying schedules. The activity is generally scheduled in the late afternoon, providing a pleasant way to wind down your day.

Accessibility & Suitability: The experience is wheelchair accessible and suitable for most adults. However, it’s not recommended for pregnant women or children under 18.

What to Bring: Just your curiosity—no need to bring anything special. Some travelers might find it enjoyable to bring a notebook for tasting notes or a camera to capture the views from the rooftop afterward.

The Sum Up

The Rum Tasting in Medellín offers a well-rounded, engaging look at Colombia’s spirited side. It combines education, tasting, and practical mixology in a cozy, elegant setting—perfect for curious travelers eager to deepen their appreciation of local flavors. The knowledgeable host, friendly environment, and access to scenic views make this a memorable activity that balances fun with learning.

While it’s not a shopping tour, it provides enough tastings and insights to make you appreciate the craftsmanship behind Colombia’s rum. Whether you’re a spirits enthusiast or simply curious about local traditions, you’ll find this experience rewarding.

If you’re seeking an authentic, relaxed, and educational activity that connects you with Medellín’s local beverage culture, this tour is a smart choice. It’s particularly ideal for solo travelers, couples, or small groups eager to enjoy a taste of Colombia’s spirited heritage in style.

FAQ

• How long does the rum tasting experience last?
  It typically lasts around 1 hour, but can extend up to 2 hours if you choose to stay longer or participate in extra tastings.

• Where is the tour located?
  The experience takes place at Cra. 38 #9A-13, Hotel Marquee in Medellín.

• What is the cost per person?
  It’s 286,000 COP (around $80 USD), which includes five tastings, educational guidance, and cocktail instruction.

• Are bottles included in the price?
  No, bottles are not included. The focus is on tasting and learning rather than purchasing.

• What times are the tours usually available?
  Most sessions are scheduled from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm, but check availability as times may vary.

• Can I cancel if my plans change?
  Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

• Is this experience suitable for non-Spanish speakers?
  Yes, guides speak English and Spanish, accommodating a wide range of travelers.

• Is the venue accessible for wheelchair users?
  Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible.

• Can children participate?
  No, it’s not suitable for children under 18 or pregnant women due to alcohol.

• What should I wear?
  Casual, comfortable clothing is fine. The environment is relaxed, and you might want to take notes or photos afterward.

In summary, the Medellín rum tasting tour offers a rich, educational, and enjoyable glimpse into Colombia’s spirit-making traditions. It’s a perfect activity for those who want to taste, learn, and appreciate local craftsmanship while enjoying stunning city views in a cozy setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby