Who knew that Maryland was known as the “wettest” state during Prohibition? We didn’t. But Blackwater Distilling does, and it has named its most recent creation after some of the very people who made that distinction possible. Picaroon Rum, available in both white and gold, is named for the “picaroons” (or rogues/scoundrels) who ran moonshine and rum throughout Maryland. It could be said that the leaders of the state at the time, unwilling to enforce the federal prohibition of alcohol on a local level, were picaroons as well. And we applaud them.
 

Blackwater Distilling, Maryland’s oldest craft distillery, is known for its production of Sloop Betty Vodka as well as for the distillery’s dedication to using organic and local ingredients whenever possible. More recently, Blackwater released Picaroon Maryland Rum, produced from Brazilian raw sugar and fermented with yeast from Martinique. Distilled to a high purity, both the white and gold rums sport tropical flavors of fruit with undertones of vanilla.

For Picaroon Gold, Blackwater blends a small portion of housemade caramel with the white rum, resulting in a gold hue and added sweetness, complementary to the creamy vanilla flavor.

While Picaroon is in limited supply in Baltimore-area bars, restaurants, and liquor stores, $5 tours at the Kent Island facility offer tastings, plus the opportunity to learn about the distilling process and infusion options to try at home.

Explore where to find Picaroon Rum and reserve a tour at blackwaterdistilling.com.

Blackwater Distilling, 184 Log Canoe Cir.; 443-249-3123

Photos via Blackwater Distilling