San Francisco Rum Fest turns 10
The Rum Lab will host the 10th anniversary edition of the San Francisco Rum Festival & Congress from 13-14 September 2025.
Also known as the California Rum Fest NoCal Edition, the two-day event at Trader Vic’s in Emeryville focuses on tastings, education and celebration.
The 10th anniversary edition will feature more than 85 rum brands and nearly 200 expressions from around the world.
Attendees will be able to savour their way through sunset tastings, expert-led seminars, and new features – including DaiquiríMania, a cocktail and music showcase presented by Reàl Ingredients, celebrating twists on the classic Daiquirí.
Federico J Hernández, founder and producer of the San Francisco Rum Festival & Congress, said: “California is the second-largest rum market in the country, and the San Francisco Bay Area is a hub for cocktail culture. This event is where trade professionals, rum aficionados, tiki enthusiasts, and curious newcomers can connect, learn, and discover the next chapter in rum’s story.”
According to Park Street data, rum made up 7.4% of total US spirits consumption in 2023, with California ranking second nationwide in nine-litre case sales.
Last year, the San Francisco Rum Festival & Congress featured more than 5,000 samples of rum from international brands.
The 2024 edition was attended by 157 trade professionals, several rum experts and enthusiasts, and 290 first-time visitors.
Programme
A new initiative called Daq-Off has been launched this year to promote Daiquiris. The concept first debuted in San Antonio, Texas, where the team at The Rum Lab participated in what was previously known as the Daq-Off Competition.
In May, the team held a competition during Madrid Ron Week. Now, this event is coming to the West Coast of the US.
An essential part of the festival is the Rum Education space, which allows attendees to explore the spirits industry, learn about its history, the market, various brands, and the key voices involved.
On the first day, the Rum Fest hosts four workshops, including a session on Asia Pacific rum gems with Joris Linke of E&A Scheer, and Alexandre Gabriel, master blender at Maison Ferrand.
The second day offers a further five sessions, such as Dunderstruck: A deep dive into the legendary Hampden Estate, an in-depth tasting of rums from the Jamaican distillery with Kate Perry from La Maison & Velier.
Guests to the Rum Fest can choose from multiple ticket options on the event’s website: VIP Rum Experts Session, Industry Trade Session, VIP Rum Enthusiast Session, Intro to Rum General Admission, and Rum Congress.
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