Sugarcane Estate Distillery Tour in Sabana with San Juan Artisan Distillers

Sabana, located in the municipality of Vega Alta on Puerto Rico’s northern coast, offers more than its vibrant ocean views and tropical greenery—it hides a distinctive slice of local craftsmanship at San Juan Artisan Distillers. This family-owned distillery specializes in small-batch rum production, specifically through their Sugarcane Estate Distillery Tour, which unveils the authentic art of rum-making from start to finish. The tour begins at a historical former home converted into the distillery’s main hub, where visitors receive a refreshing welcome drink that sets the tone for an immersive experience.

Led by knowledgeable guides like Pepe and Gabriel, guests walk through each stage of production—from cane harvesting to fermentation, distillation, and aging—with exceptional attention to the estate’s unique agricultural methods. Unlike most rums made from molasses, their rhum agricole is produced from fresh sugarcane juice grown on-site, delivering a distinctive flavor not commonly found outside Puerto Rico. The tour culminates with generous tastings of 9 to 10 different rums, including their sought-after Ron Pepón Agricola expressions, highly praised for their complexity and smooth finish.

San Juan Artisan Distillers stands apart as one of the few fully Puerto Rican-owned distilleries that remain small-scale and dedicated to quality, using traditional methods refined over decades. Aside from the technical insights, the owners’ genuine passion and personal interaction — including opportunities to chat directly with Pepe Alvarez — create a warm, inviting atmosphere that turns a standard tour into a memorable cultural experience.

For rum enthusiasts and travelers interested in authentic local flavors and heritage, the Sugarcane Estate Distillery Tour offers a rich blend of education, sensory indulgence, and connection to Puerto Rico’s agricultural roots. It’s an essential stop if you’re visiting Vega Alta and want a taste of something truly local, crafted with care and history.