Barbados: Mount Gay Rum Tasting & Cocktail Workshop

Summary

Barbados rum tasting with cocktail class and local stories

You’ll taste four Mount Gay rums in Barbados with a local guide, then learn to mix classic cocktails during a hands-on workshop. Enjoy complimentary rum punch, swap stories with other travelers, and browse rare bottles or souvenirs in the shop before heading out—there’s an easygoing vibe that sticks with you long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

We were already halfway through our second sip when our host—Andre, I think?—nudged us to guess which Mount Gay rum was in the glass. The place smelled like old wood and sugarcane, with the kind of warmth you only get in Barbados. I’d never done a proper rum tasting before, but Andre made it feel easy, even for someone who usually just orders a rum punch at the beach bar. He laughed when I tried to pronounce “Eclipse” with a Bajan accent—definitely butchered it.

After the tasting (four different rums, each one stronger than the last), we moved over to this little bar setup for the cocktail workshop. The mixologist showed us how to muddle limes without smashing them to bits—I didn’t know there was a trick to it. We all got pretty competitive about who could make the best drink, and someone actually spilled their shaker all over the counter. The staff just grinned and handed out napkins. There’s something about mixing your own drink right where they make the stuff that hits different, you know?

I wandered through the shop after, still feeling that slow burn from the last sample. Some of those bottles are only sold here on the island—almost grabbed one for my dad but got distracted by these tiny rum cakes near the register. You can grab lunch or snacks if you want (the grill outside smelled amazing), but honestly I was still thinking about that first taste of XO rum. Never thought I’d care about “notes” or “finish,” but here we are.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Mount Gay Rum Tasting and Workshop

• Arrive at Mount Gay Visitor Centre
• Enjoy complimentary rum punch
• Explore the Legacy Museum
• Participate in Signature Rum Tasting
• Join cocktail making session with mixologists
• Compete to make the best cocktail
• Visit gift shop for rum and souvenirs
• Optional finger foods or lunch at Live Grill

Top questions

Is transportation included for the Mount Gay Cocktail Workshop?

No, transportation is not included. You'll need to arrange your own way to the Mount Gay Visitor Center.

How many rums do you taste during this experience?

The guided tasting includes four different Mount Gay rums.

Is lunch provided at the Visitor Center?

No lunch is included, but finger foods or lunch are available for purchase at the Live Grill onsite.

Can I buy exclusive Mount Gay rums during this tour?

Yes, some bottles are only available on Barbados and can be purchased in the Visitor Center shop.

Is there a distillery tour included?

No, this experience does not include a tour of the distillery itself.

What is the minimum age for this cocktail workshop?

The minimum age is 18 years old.

Is this activity suitable for wheelchair users?

Yes, it is wheelchair accessible.

What’s included

Your day includes a guided tasting of four signature Mount Gay rums at the Visitor Center in Barbados, complimentary rum punch on arrival, an interactive cocktail making class led by professional mixologists, time to shop for unique bottles or souvenirs found only on the island, plus access to finger foods or lunch for purchase at their outdoor grill before heading off on your own schedule.