The two things that I like to drink, while on vacation in Hawaii, more than anything else, are Kona Brewing Company’s Big Wave Golden Ale and Koloa Rum. Both feel like Hawaii to me, and trigger memories of all our trips there, whenever I drink them. If I could smuggle a whole suitcase home filled with just these things would be very happy. Sometimes, I am tempted to fly to Hawaii, every month just to stock up.
Koloa Rum has their distillery just on the edge of Lihue, on Kauai, at the historic Kilohana Plantation. Even if you’re not a rum drinker, this is a nice little stop on the south side of the island. You can get all of their award-winning rums, merchandise and a wide range of souvenir items for yourself or for anyone wanting a unique piece for their home bar. Folks, this is a great place to find souvenirs to bring back home for those not fortunate enough to travel with you.
Tastings
Not sure which of their many rums to get? No problem! Their tasting room is attached to the store and offers tastings every half hour. The daily schedule varies during the week so be sure to check their hours here, before heading over. Keep in mind that in the USA, you must be 21 years old to legally consume alcohol.
My personal favorite is the Original Koloa Kauai Dark Run. It tastes a lot like spiced rum, which I like. It has an excellent hint of vanilla with a very smooth aftertaste. It’s really the only rum that I can drink on the rocks. For those looking for something on the fruitier side, they also have ready-to-drink cocktails. They are good. In fact, maybe a little too good. You can’t taste the alcohol at all, but it’s there!
Wary Travelers Tip
We’ve found the cheapest place to get Koloa Rum is either Costco or Foodland, not only in Kauai, but also in Maui and the Big Island. Costco typically only has the Dark and Gold, while Foodland will usually have all their products including the Kauai Reserve 12-Barrel Select Hawaiian Rum.
Finally, if you are planning a trip to Kauai, here are a few other posts that you might like:
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