At Founding Spirits, we believe rum is more than just a drink—it’s a story of tradition, innovation, and connection to the land. Nestled in the heart of Washington, DC, our farmer-owned distillery is on a mission to redefine what craft small-batch rum truly means.
What Makes Rum “Craft”?
Craft rum isn’t about mass production or cutting corners. It’s about:
- Small-Batch Philosophy: Unlike industrial rum producers, we create our spirits in limited quantities. This allows us to maintain exceptional quality and give each batch the attention it deserves. Our small-batch approach means we can experiment, refine, and perfect our craft with every single run.
- American Ingredients: We source American ingredients from farmers we know and trust, building a direct connection between the field and your glass. Our Founding Spirits rum is distilled from American Gulf Coast molasses and made with American sugar cane. As a farmer-owned company, our commitment to American family agriculture isn’t just a marketing strategy—it’s a fundamental part of our identity.
- Hands-On Production: Mass-produced spirits rely on machines and algorithms. We rely on experience, intuition, and hands-on craftsmanship. Our distillers are intimately involved in every step of the process, from selecting ingredients to monitoring fermentation and thoughtfully managing the distillation.
Our Rum Collection: A Trio of Flavor
We’ve crafted three distinct rum expressions that showcase the depth and versatility of our approach:
- White Rum: Smooth and Versatile
- Our white rum is a clean, refreshing spirit that speaks to the essence of craft distillation. Unaged and full of character, it’s perfect for cocktails that demand a pure, vibrant rum base. You’ll taste the freshness of our real, meticulously sourced ingredients in every sip.
- Dark Rum: Rich and Complex
- Aged to perfection, our dark rum develops a deep, nuanced flavor profile. We use white oak barrels and a patient aging process to create a rum with layers of complexity. Notes of caramel, vanilla, and subtle spices tell the story of our crafting method.
- Navy Strength Rum: Bold and Unapologetic
- Inspired by maritime tradition, our Navy Strength rum is a powerful expression of rum-making art. At a higher proof, it delivers an intense flavor experience of oak, honey, roasted cherries, and toffee that honors the historic roots of rum production while showcasing our modern craft approach.
Why Founding Spirits Stands Out
We’re not just making rum—we’re preserving a craft, supporting American family farmers, and creating a genuine connection between producers and consumers. Our grain-to-glass philosophy means that when you choose Founding Spirits, you’re not just buying a spirit. You’re supporting a community, a tradition, and a passion for exceptional rum. You are also directly supporting American family farmers.
Every bottle is a testament to our commitment to quality, local sourcing, and hands-on production. We invite you to taste the difference that true craft rum can make.
