Saint Sithney buys Cape Cornwall Rum
Cornwall distillery Saint Sithney has announced the acquisition of fellow Cornish producer, the Cape Cornwall Rum Company, for an undisclosed amount.
The acquisition marks Saint Sithney’s expansion into the premium rum market, diversifying its portfolio to include new spirit categories beyond gin.
Greville and Wendy Richards, founders and directors of Saint Sithney Distillery, commented: “This acquisition represents an important step in Saint Sithney’s growth. Our ambition has always been to build a portfolio of premium spirits that reflect Cornwall’s heritage and craftsmanship.
“Cape Cornwall Rum is a natural addition to that vision, and we see significant opportunity to expand the brand’s reach through our growing distribution network and investment in the future of the business.”
The Cape Cornwall Rum Company was established in 2019 by Jack Shannon and Harvey Thomas, who aimed to revive a unique aspect of Cornish history rooted in the rugged coastline of West Penwith.
The brand draws inspiration from a family story that dates back to 1925, when Thomas’ great-great-grandfather discovered bottles of alcohol hidden within the walls of his farm cottage.
The discovery is believed to be linked to the region’s long-standing smuggling heritage. During that time, rum and other goods were often brought ashore under the cover of darkness to evade heavy taxation, and then concealed in remote farm buildings known locally as ‘The Wink’.
Using the same historic setting to age and bottle their rum, Cape Cornwall Rum combines Caribbean rum with Cornish spring water.
The brand currently offers three premium rums: spiced, gold, and white rum, along with ready-to-drink (RTD) cans featuring cocktails like Cuba Libre and Mojito.
According to Saint Sithney, the rum brand is well-positioned for further growth, with clear opportunities to expand its distribution both nationally and internationally.
Under new ownership, Cape Cornwall Rum will benefit from increased investment, a strengthened route to market, and an expanded sales network. The brand will continue to honour its Cornish heritage while leveraging Saint Sithney’s growing distribution network, brand development expertise, and investments in future growth.
The Richards added: “As distillers, we’re always drawn to spirits that carry a genuine sense of place and story. Cape Cornwall Rum has a wonderful heritage rooted in Cornwall’s coastline, farming and maritime history.
“From the moment we explored the brand, we could see the potential to build on what has already been created while staying true to its Cornish character. We’re excited to continue developing the rum and ensuring its quality and authenticity remain at the heart of the brand.”
The company confirmed that the range will continue to be produced and developed under the Cape Cornwall Rum name.
Additionally, Saint Sithney Distillery revealed that it will launch a new premium vodka this May, further expanding its growing portfolio of spirits. The vodka will maintain the distillery’s focus on provenance-led production.
Last year, Saint Sithney submitted a planning application for a new £3.5 million (US$4.6 million) distillery and visitor centre in Sithney village.
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