Cover The inaugural Rum & Roll Rendezvous boasts rum appreciation masterclasses led by seasoned experts

From unlimited tastings of rums and exclusive masterclasses to epic parties, the three-day festival makes for the perfect boozy retreat for all rum enthusiasts

Rum is having more than just a moment—it’s staging a full-blown revolution. From millennials seeking liquid authenticity to whisky aficionados crossing over to the sugarcane side, this venerable spirit is carving out its niche in the global market faster than you can say “mojito”. Soon, Singapore is primed to shake things up with the inaugural Rum & Roll Rendezvous, courtesy of Intercontinental Singapore and The Rum Cartel. 

Come July 26 to 28, sip on the finest rums which promises to regale attendees with spirited offerings and tales of provenance. Here’s the lowdown on how it will go down.

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Above Once sundown, change into your swimwear and head for a dip in the inviting pool

Kicking off the festivities with “The Extravaganza”, expect a sultry soirée where live Latin music sets and free-flowing rum cocktails transport you straight to Havana. But don’t party too hard though as the next day beckons a two-part odyssey you wouldn’t want to miss. On July 27, the “Rum & Roll Immersion” invites vendors with a carefully curated selection of the finest rums at individual booths for tastings. Think Plantation Rum, Bacardi, Flor de Cana, Santa Teresa and more.

For a deeper dive into all things rum, participate in the rum appreciation masterclasses led by seasoned experts and ambassadors, such as Rob Scott of Flor de Cana and Symphony Loo of Appleton Rum. Enthusiasts will journey across the intricate process of rum production where one can learn about the lores of sugarcane varietals and barrel ageing approaches. Once sundown, swap the Glencairn tulips for a welcoming daiquiri, change into your swimwear and head for a dip in the inviting pool at the “Tropical Pool Party”.

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Above Indulge in a sumptuous Sunday brunch at the Italian restaurant Luce

Come Sunday, the afternoon calls for a sumptuous brunch at the Italian restaurant Luce. Of course, rum cocktails are free-flow if you’re still musing over the sugarcane-based spirit. Otherwise, perhaps a glass of champagne may be a refreshing switch to pair up with an international spread studded with Italian delicacies. Continuing the spirit of Havana, three rum-based cocktails will remain featured in The Lobby Bar where guests can sip on the allure of the Caribbean.

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Above Revel in the lavish amenities, complimentary breakfast, and full access to the Intercontinental Singapore’s world-class facilities

And for a truly Caribbean-inspired staycation, discerning rum aficionados can consider opting for the “Stay 3 Pay 2” package, compliments of Intercontinental Singapore. Besides full access to the three-day festival, guests can revel in the lavish amenities, complimentary breakfast, and full access to the property’s world-class facilities.

The idea of Rum & Roll Rendezvous sparked after a spirited meetup between Andreas Kraemer—general manager of Intercontinental Singapore—and Frederic Langlois—founder of the Rum Cartel—over some remarkable Costa Rican rums. As Kraemer puts it, “There is a necessity for an exclusive rum event in Singapore that exudes luxury and captivates all ages and levels of expertise.” For all rum enthusiasts, it is a resonating point that is right on the money, especially when festivals turn strangers into friends and rum novices into connoisseurs.


Intercontinental Singgapore
Address: 80 Middle Road, S(188966)

Tickets available for purchase at singapore.intercontinental.com/offers/rum-roll-rendezvous

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