{"id":33063,"date":"2024-10-22T19:54:10","date_gmt":"2024-10-22T23:54:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.slammie.com\/atomicgrog\/blog\/?p=33063"},"modified":"2024-11-18T22:11:31","modified_gmt":"2024-11-19T03:11:31","slug":"15th-miami-rum-renaissance-festival-features-tastings-of-elite-brands-mai-kai-seminar-plus-more","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.slammie.com\/atomicgrog\/blog\/2024\/10\/22\/15th-miami-rum-renaissance-festival-features-tastings-of-elite-brands-mai-kai-seminar-plus-more\/","title":{"rendered":"UPDATE: 15th Miami Rum Renaissance Festival features tastings of elite brands, Mai-Kai seminar, plus more"},"content":{"rendered":"

Updated Nov. 18, 2024<\/em><\/p>\n

As November approaches and most of the country starts to buckle down for the winter, South Florida’s thoughts turn to … RUM, of course. More specifically, the Miami Rum Festival in Coral Gables, which celebrates the world’s most diverse spirit with three days of seminars and tasting events that target everyone from newbies to high-end enthusiasts, to industry professionals.<\/p>\n

\"Miami<\/a><\/p>\n

Nov. 9-11 – Miami Rum Renaissance Festival<\/a><\/strong> at the Coral Gables Woman\u2019s Club and Marriott Courtyard Coral Gables. Educational seminars on Saturday, grand tasting on Sunday, trade day on Monday.
\nSee below:<\/strong> Seminars<\/a> | Grand tastings<\/a> | Tickets, venue info<\/a>
\n• After party at Tiki speakeasy<\/a>
\nNEW:<\/B><\/FONT> Social media recaps<\/a><\/strong>
\n2023 recap:<\/strong> Photos and highlights of last year’s event<\/a>
\nUpcoming:<\/em> Rum events calendar<\/a><\/p>\n

It’s not surprising that with its year-round tropical weather and proximity to the Caribbean, the Sunshine State is the fastest growing premium rum market<\/a> in the United States. The Florida Rum Society<\/a> is one of the largest and most active social groups dedicated to cane spirits. In 2024, we have been blessed with a plethora of events,<\/a> from Miami Beach to Key West to Tampa.<\/p>\n

But the Miami Rum Renaissance Festival is the grand daddy of them all in the hottest of the rum hotbeds, launched in 2009 by longtime rum collectors and enthusiasts Robin and Robert Burr, author of Rob’s Rum Guide.<\/a> This year’s gathering will be fifth at the historic Coral Gables Woman\u2019s Club and the 15th overall.<\/p>\n

\"Rum<\/a>
Rum giant Bacardi, which has its American headquarters in Miami, regularly sends representatives to the Miami Rum Festival. (Photo by Hurricane Hayward \/ Nov. 12, 2023)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

“South Florida is the number one rum market in the world and its only fitting that we present Miami Rum Fest as the best rum tasting program in the United States once a year in this location,” Robert Burr is quoted as saying. “Its also a chance for the international rum community to come together, from the islands of the Caribbean and the Americas to Europe, Asia, Australia, Africa and beyond.”<\/p>\n

The participating brands are carefully curated by the Burrs, reflecting both their interests in the global variety but also boutique and local producers who may not yet be major players. The website lists 68 different brands<\/a>, and you can expect most to bring multiple expressions of their rum to the grand tasting, set for 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 10. If you buy a VIP ticket, you get early entry at 12:30.<\/p>\n

If you want to dive deeper into the history and techniques used to create today’s finest rums, be sure to check out the seminars on Saturday, Nov. 9, at the Marriott. One ticket allows you access to all three, including Tiki Evolution: The Historic Rums and Iconic Cocktails of The Mai-Kai<\/em>, which I’ll have the pleasure of presenting along with Kern Mattei and Cory Starr, the longtime manager and new beverage director at the Fort Lauderdale restaurant (est. 1956).<\/p>\n

While I’ve attended and covered the festival for the blog nearly every year (see links below)<\/a>, this will be The Atomic Grog’s first seminar and our first time participating since the memorable Zombie Jamboree cocktail competition<\/A> hosted by Jeff “Beachbum” Berry<\/a> in 2011. We hope to see you there!<\/p>\n

\"Robert<\/a>
Robert and Robin Burr (center) with their staff at the 2019 Rum Renaissance Festival. (Photo by Miles Maximillian Vrahimis)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Following is a rundown on what you can expect at the 2024 festival. <\/a><\/p>\n

Saturday’s seminars<\/h3>\n

The Miami Rum Festival has always offered a wide array of seminars and expert master classes for its participants. In recent years, these educational opportunities have been held on the event’s first day at the Marriott Courtyard Coral Gables, less than a mile from the tasting venue at the Coral Gables Woman\u2019s Club.<\/p>\n

That’s not to say the seminars don’t involve tasting rums. To the contrary, many of the intimate events have featured numerous samples of rare and exclusive spirits. The all-inclusive ticket ($79) also includes food and refreshments served during the breaks between seminars. Seating is limited, so advance reservations are encouraged. Get your seminar ticket now<\/a>.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

“There is a lot of excitement at Miami Rum Fest among producers with many new and interesting products coming to market and many new developments in the world of rum,” Robert Burr said.<\/p>\n

\"Flashback:<\/a>
Flashback: Special presentations have always been a staple of Miami Rum Renaissance Festival. In 2013, author Jeff “Beachbum” Berry debated Ian Burrell (right) over who was the real “rum ambassador.” Don the Beachcomber will again play a role in this year’s Mai-Kai presentation. (Photo by Hurricane Hayward)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The Cave Above The Clouds: Production and Aging Techniques of Guatemala\u2019s Legendary Cane Spirits<\/em><\/strong> with Laura Vasquez<\/a>, 12:30-1:30 p.m.<\/p>\n

An update on the rums produced by the Botran family\u2019s Licores de Guatemala<\/a> under the direction of master blender Lorena V\u00e1squez<\/a>. This includes the Zacapa brand<\/a>, produced from sugar cane honey in the Tulul\u00e1 region near the Pacific Ocean and fermented, distilled and aged in the volcanic region of Quetzaltenango. The regional brand ambassador for corporate owner Diageo will provide an overview of all the expressions along with notes on their production techniques.<\/p>\n

Tiki Evolution: The Historic Rums and Iconic Cocktails of The Mai-Kai<\/em><\/strong> featuring Kern Mattei<\/a> and Cory Starr<\/a>, hosted by Jim “Hurricane” Hayward<\/a>, 2-3 p.m.<\/p>\n

\"Tiki<\/p>\n

Established in 1956, The Mai-Kai<\/a> in Fort Lauderdale is not only the last of the great mid-century Polynesian supper clubs, it\u2019s a living history of tropical cocktails and rum, with many of its secret recipes dating back to Don the Beachcomber<\/a> in the 1930s. Manager Mattei, beverage director Starr, and journalist Hayward explore how the bar\u2019s rums and drinks have evolved yet remain timeless and classic. Along with a multi-year, multimillion-dollar restoration, the restaurant is unveiling a new signature spirit, Mai-Kai Rum No. 1<\/a>. Learn about this groundbreaking new blend sourced from historic stills in Barbados and Jamaica, a throwback to the rums of yore.
\nVIDEO:<\/strong> Mai-Kai Rum No. 1 presentation at The Hukilau<\/a><\/p>\n

Since the original seminar announcement, we’re excited to confirm the participation of The Mai-Kai’s new head bartender. The seminar will be a great opportunity to meet Cory Starr and taste his cocktails at his first public event in South Florida. Hear his plans for maintaining the legacy and enhancing the bar program as the restaurant’s reopening looms.<\/a><\/p>\n

\"Cory<\/a>
Cory Starr is the new beverage director at The Mai-Kai, which will soon welcome guests back to the restored Molokai Bar. (Photo by Hurricane Hayward, October 2024)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Starr will be making not one, not two, but three classic Mai-Kai cocktails for seminar guests to sample. Order your tickets online now<\/a> before they sell out.
\n• Related story: The Mai-Kai welcomes Cory Starr as new chief mixologist in advance of grand reopening<\/a><\/p>\n

About the presenters: Mattei was born into The Mai-Kai family and has worked there since his youth, from barback and bartender to the past three decades as manager. His father was the GM before him, and his mother performed in the stage show. His unique position makes him intimately familiar with the restaurant\u2019s famous cocktails, their history and the secret recipes. Starr is the newly installed beverage director and head bartender, taking over the storied program in September. He previously was beverage director at Tiki Tatsu-Ya in Austin and a bartender at Three Dots and a Dash in Chicago. Hayward is a cocktail enthusiast and writer who has covered The Mai-Kai for more than a decade, documenting and recreating the cocktail recipes in exacting detail on The Atomic Grog blog.
\nAtomic Grog links<\/em>
\n• Okole Maluna Society – The Mai-Kai Cocktail Guide<\/a>
\n• Latest updates on The Mai-Kai refurbishment and reopening<\/a><\/p>\n

Mister Fogg \u2013 The Re-Birth of an Authentic Navy Rum<\/em><\/strong> with Adrienne Stoner<\/a>, 3:30-4:30 p.m.<\/p>\n

\"Mister<\/p>\n

Maison Ferrand<\/a> recently released Planteray Mister Fogg<\/a>, a meticulously crafted blend that pays homage to the rich heritage and craftsmanship of British Navy rum. Maison Ferrand’s rum community liaison tells the story of its inception and development, then gives us a taste of a spirit that sets a new standard in the category.<\/p>\n

Drawing from four of the main rum-producing Caribbean islands historically used in navy blends – Barbados, Trinidad, Guyana and Jamaica – Mister Fogg is a spirit of rare depth and complexity. Available as a limited edition, the rum is accompanied by the in-depth co-authored book Exploring 300 Years of Royal Navy Rum and Its Technique<\/em> by Maison Ferrand owner and master blender Alexandre Gabriel<\/a> and rum historian Matt Pietrek<\/a>, aka Rum Wonk<\/a>.
\n• Planteray’s Navy Rum project – Behind the scenes<\/a> <\/a><\/p>\n

Sunday’s grand tasting <\/h3>\n

The highlight of any spirits festival is what is generally known as the “exhibition floor,” a very bland and corporate way of describing what connoisseurs may consider to be absolute nirvana. In the case of Miami Rum Renaissance, that means multiple rooms in the cozy Coral Gables Woman\u2019s Club building filled with tables and booths brimming with some of the world’s top rums from brands large and small. Rob’s Rum Guide reports<\/a> that exhibit space is sold out.<\/p>\n

\"One<\/a>
One of the grand tasting rooms at the 2023 Miami Rum Festival. (Photo by Hurricane Hayward \/ Nov. 12, 2023)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Robert Burr calls the tasting session “an opportunity for rum enthusiasts to enjoy their favorites and discover some delightful new expressions, gain a greater appreciation and share the enthusiasm of these fine spirits with friends.”<\/p>\n

You not only have the rare chance to taste more than 100 samples from producers around the world, but some of the exhibitors are the brand owners or master blenders themselves. At the least, you’ll encounter knowledgeable ambassadors and representatives who can guide you through the tasting session.<\/p>\n

Confirmed brands, distilleries and importers<\/a> that will have samples available this year include: 3 Sisters, Ron Abuelo, Admiral Rodney, Alfie’s Bamboo Rum, Angostura, Appleton, Bacard\u00ed, Bacoo, Baie Des Tresors, Rhum Barbancourt, Ron Barcelo, Botran, Brinley, Bombarda, Bristol, Brugal, Cane Rock, Carta Vieja, Ron Centario, Chairman’s Reserve, Ron Col\u00f3n, Copalli, Ron Centenario, Coconut Cartel, Compagnie Des Indes, Ron Diplomatico, Dos Maderas, Elia 625, Flor de Cana, Foursquare, Gosling’s, Grander, Hampden, Island Company Rum, Java Mur, Lemon Hart, Ron Matusalem, Mezan, Monymusk, Nine Leaves, Noxx & Dunn, Nusa Cana, Don Pancho Origenes, Papa’s Pilar, Parce Rum, Pinaq, Planteray, Reif, Renegade, Ron Roble, Romero, Saint James, Santa Teresa, R.L. Seale, Rolling Fork Spirits, Royal Jamaican Rum, Rum Nation, Silver Seal, Trois Rivieres, Habitation Velier, Zacapa, and Zafra.<\/p>\n

This is a significant increase over last year, so we’re excited to check out the offerings during Sunday’s tasting session. Most of these are new releases and standard offerings, but if that doesn’t get you excited enough, the Burrs have a special treat. Some rare and limited-edition bottles from their private collection are offered in the Private Collection Tasting Bar, with proceeds from tickets ($5 each) benefitting a local non-profit organization.<\/p>\n

\"Robert<\/a>
Robert A. Burr and son Robert V. Burr serve samples of premium bottles in the Private Collection Tasting Bar at the 2023 festival. (Photo by Hurricane Hayward \/ Nov. 12, 2023)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

If you’re in the industry in some capacity, you may want to check out Monday’s “trade day,” which runs from 12:30 to 5 p.m. Complimentary admission is offered to qualified members who can prove their eligibility. This includes producers, importers, distributors, retailers, brand representatives, food and beverage managers, bartenders, plus spirits press and recognized media outlets. Fill out the online form<\/a> to request trade admission. <\/a><\/p>\n

Tickets and venue info<\/h3>\n

Discounted advance tickets are available online<\/a> for $49 (general admission) and $59 (VIP) for Saturday’s grand tasting. There’s also a VIP ticket for two for $99. On Nov. 1, prices will rise by $10 each. Admission includes a complimentary tasting glass. Tickets for Saturday’s seminars are $79, rising to $89 on Nov. 1.<\/p>\n

In addition to the website, you can call (305) 350-0764 to order or get more information. Tickets will also be available at the door while they last.<\/p>\n

\"Last<\/a>
Last year was the fourth straight year the festival was hosted at the historic the Coral Gables Woman\u2019s Club. (Photo by Hurricane Hayward \/ Nov. 12, 2023)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The seminars are held in conference rooms at the Marriott Courtyard in the heart of the Coral Gables Historic District. Rum fest attendees can get a special rate at the hotel, which is just nine blocks and easy walking distance from the Coral Gables Woman\u2019s Club, where the grand tasting and trade day are held. Click here for more info<\/a> on the Marriott and other nearby hotels.<\/p>\n

The Coral Gables Woman\u2019s Club<\/a> is a historic venue that features two large halls that are used as exhibition space for the grand tasting and trade day. There is ample seating in the larger room, and the festival always offers plenty of food options throughout the event.<\/p>\n

There is plenty of free parking on the surrounding streets. The city also offers a free ride service. Click here for more venue info<\/a> and here for travel information. <\/p>\n

After party at Tiki speakeasy Kaona Room<\/h3>\n
\"Kaona<\/a>
Kaona Room, an immersive Tiki speakeasy in downtown Miami, will host the official Miami Rum Festival after party. (Photos by Hurricane Hayward \/ February 2023)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Since Miami Rum Renaissance Festival usually wraps up in the late afternoon or early evening, extracurricular activities at some of the region’s top Tiki and rum bars have always been a big part of the agenda for attendees. Miami has no shortage a stellar restaurants and cocktail bars, so there’s a lot to choose from.<\/p>\n

This years’s official Rum Renaissance after party will be held at Kaona Room<\/a>, the highly immersive Tiki speakeasy in downtown Miami. Billed as a “the hidden Tiki room,” the small bar featuring world-class rum and Tiki cocktails (as well as delicious small bites) is accessed via an unassuming entryway on a side street in the Arts & Entertainment District.<\/p>\n

The event, which starts at 6 p.m., is co-hosted by Planteray Rum<\/a> and the Florida Rum Society<\/a>. “Kudos to Adrienne and the Planteray team and Billy Dalla Pola at Kaona Room for hosting,” rum festival organizer Robert Burr wrote on the rum society’s Facebook group. “Looking forward to seeing all our Florida rum friends and out-of-town guests.”<\/p>\n

\"Billy<\/a>
Billy Dalla Pola puts on a show behind the bar at Kaona Room during The Hukilau after party on June 9, 2024. (Photo by Hurricane Hayward)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Kaona Room was created by Dalla Pola’s father, noted mixologist and globe-trotting Tiki ambassador Daniele Dalla Pola. It was originally the hidden back bar attached to Esotico Miami, the large tropical lounge and restaurant that stood out in in the competitive downtown dining scene for nearly 5 years before sadly closing in March 2024.<\/a><\/p>\n

Esoticio has been replaced by The Canvas Bar,<\/a> run by Daniele Dalla Pola’s Graspa Group<\/a> partners. But Kaona Room is still going strong<\/a>, run by Billy while Daniele plans an eventual return from his current home base in Cozumel, Mexico.<\/p>\n

Kaona Room is Miami’s most authentic Tiki experience and often home to special events, from The Hukilkau<\/a> to Tiki Bingo<\/a>. We hope to see you at the Miami Rum Fest finale. <\/a><\/p>\n

Miami Rum Fest 2024 social media recaps<\/h2>\n

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A post shared by Miami Rum Festival (@rumrenaissance)<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n