St Maarten: Topper’s Rhum Distillery Tour & Tastings

Summary

Topper’s Rhum distillery tour with tasting and local bites in St Maarten

You’ll step into Topper’s Rhum Distillery by Simpson Bay Lagoon with a welcome punch in hand, then taste your way through 15+ small-batch rums with a lively local guide. Try rum-infused gelato, fresh cakes, and even join as guest bartender if you like — it’s hands-on but laid-back. Expect laughter, new flavors, and real island warmth.

What’s the experience like?

“Try this one — it tastes like coconut cake,” our guide grinned, holding out a tiny glass. I’d barely finished the welcome rhum punch (cold, sweet, a little spicy — honestly perfect after the sticky heat outside) before we were whisked into the heart of Topper’s Rhum Distillery. The place sits right on Simpson Bay Lagoon, and you can smell sugar and something almost floral the second you walk in. Our guide, Dwayne, had this way of making everyone laugh even when he was talking about fermentation tanks and medals they’d won — I think he said over thirty? I lost count after the third sample.

I didn’t expect to actually taste so many different flavors. There was one with guavaberry that made me pause (I still think about that one), and another that tasted like spiced bread pudding. We got to peek behind the scenes — big copper stills humming quietly, bottles lined up like little soldiers waiting for their labels. At one point Dwayne asked if anyone wanted to try being “guest bartender” for a minute. My friend volunteered and nearly spilled half her pour; everyone cheered anyway. The whole thing felt relaxed — not rushed or scripted.

Afterwards we wandered over to the gelato counter (yes, they put rhum in that too), and sampled these tiny rum cakes that were somehow both dense and light? Hard to explain but really good. I liked watching locals pop in for a quick chat or a scoop — felt less touristy than I expected. By the end I couldn’t remember which flavor was my favorite but left with a warm buzz (and maybe a bottle or two). If you’re looking for a day trip in St Maarten that’s fun but not fussy, this is it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Topper's Rhum Distillery Tour

• Arrive and receive rhum punch
• Join hands-on guided tour
• Learn rum history and process
• See fermentation, distillation, blending
• Discover aging and bottling methods
• Learn to nose and taste rhum
• Taste over 20 flavored rhums
• Sample rum cake and gelato
• Cook and taste rhum-infused food

Top questions

How many rum samples do you get at Topper’s Rhum Distillery?

You’ll taste more than 15 specialty rums plus several signature blends during the tour.

Is food included on the Topper’s Rhum distillery tour?

Yes, you’ll sample rum-infused cake, gelato, and dishes prepared with Topper’s Rhum.

Where is Topper’s Rhum Distillery located?

The distillery is right on Simpson Bay Lagoon in St Maarten.

Are there non-alcoholic options available?

The main focus is on rum tastings; however, gelato and food are also served.

Is the tour suitable for kids or people who don’t drink alcohol?

The site is family-friendly and accessible; only guests 18+ can drink alcohol.

Is Topper’s Rhum Distillery wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas are wheelchair accessible including restrooms and entrances.

Can you buy bottles of rum at the distillery?

Yes, there’s a shop where you can purchase their handcrafted rums after your tour.

What’s included

Your visit includes a welcome rhum punch on arrival at Simpson Bay Lagoon, an interactive guided tour through Topper’s distillery with plenty of stories along the way, exclusive tastings of more than 15 specialty rums plus signature blends, samples of rum-infused gelato and cake, opportunities to join as guest chef or bartender for fun hands-on moments — all wrapped up with time to relax at their bar or browse the gift shop before heading out again.