Uitvlugt distillery

Introduction to Uitvlugt

A distillery with passion for craftsmanship

Uitvlugt is a historic Guyanese rum distillery that embodies the rich tradition of Demerara rum production. Located on the west bank of the Demerara River in Guyana, this legendary establishment earned international acclaim for its distinctive and complex rums before its official closure in 2000.

Though no longer operational as an independent facility, the legacy of Uitvlugt lives on through its stills, which were relocated to the Diamond Distillery, where they continue to produce rums in the unique Uitvlugt style.

Why we have a soft spot for Uitvlugt

At Vault of Spirits, we appreciate distilleries that have left an indelible mark on the spirits world. Uitvlugt stands out for its unique four-column French Savalle still, which produces a distinctively light and elegant style of rum that contrasts beautifully with the heavier profiles typically associated with Demerara rums.

The incredible versatility and complexity of Uitvlugt rums, particularly those from the pre-closure era, make them highly sought after by collectors and connoisseurs alike.

The History Behind Uitvlugt

Origin and development

Uitvlugt (pronounced “eye-flot”) was established in the 18th century in Guyana, making it one of the oldest rum producers in the region. The name itself is Dutch, meaning “outlet” – a reference to the plantation’s location on the Demerara River.

During its long history, Uitvlugt operated under various owners and witnessed the consolidation of Guyana’s once-numerous sugar estates and distilleries. By the 20th century, it had become one of just a handful of operating distilleries in the country.

The people behind

Throughout its history, Uitvlugt was operated by master distillers who upheld the traditional techniques of Demerara rum production while adapting to changing times. When Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL) acquired Uitvlugt in 1999, they made the crucial decision to preserve the distillery’s unique stills and production methods despite closing the original facility.

This foresight ensured that the distinctive Uitvlugt style continues to be produced today, with DDL’s master distillers serving as custodians of this historic rum tradition.

The Craft and Production

From raw material to finished product

Uitvlugt was renowned for its four-column French Savalle still, a remarkable piece of distillation equipment that produces a lighter, more refined style of rum. The production began with locally grown sugar cane, harvested from the fertile lands surrounding the Demerara River.

After fermentation using proprietary yeasts, the wash would be distilled in the Savalle still, creating a distinctive rum that captures the essence of Guyana’s terroir while maintaining an elegance that sets it apart from other Demerara rums.

Maturation and aging

Uitvlugt rums were traditionally aged in oak barrels in Guyana’s tropical climate, where the high humidity and heat accelerate the maturation process. This environment creates an intense interaction between the spirit and the wood, leading to deep flavors developing more rapidly than in cooler climates.

Today, rums produced on the former Uitvlugt stills continue to be aged in this manner, developing rich notes of tropical fruits, spices, and subtle hints of the estate’s distinctive character.

Selected Products from Uitvlugt

Independent bottlings – A glimpse into rum history

Since the distillery’s closure, Uitvlugt rums have primarily appeared as independent bottlings from prestigious companies like Velier, Berry Bros & Rudd, and The Whisky Agency. These bottlings often feature specific vintage years and have become highly collectible.

These expressions typically showcase the light, fruity character that Uitvlugt was famous for, often with notes of tropical fruits, citrus, grassy undertones, and delicate spices.

El Dorado line – The distillery’s legacy

Within DDL’s El Dorado range, certain expressions contain rum produced on the original Uitvlugt Savalle still, now operating at Diamond Distillery. These rums contribute elegant, lighter components to the complex blends that make up the El Dorado portfolio.

For enthusiasts seeking to experience the Uitvlugt character, these blends offer an accessible entry point to understanding this historic distillery’s contribution to the world of rum.

Visit the distillery

Touring Diamond Distillery

While the original Uitvlugt distillery is no longer operational, rum enthusiasts can visit the Diamond Distillery in Guyana, where the Uitvlugt still continues to produce rum in the traditional style. Tours of Diamond offer insight into the history of Guyanese rum production, including the legacy of Uitvlugt.

Visitors can see the impressive Savalle still in operation and learn about how this piece of equipment helped define a distinctive style of Demerara rum that continues to captivate connoisseurs worldwide.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Uitvlugt?

Uitvlugt was a historic rum distillery in Guyana that produced distinctive Demerara rums using a unique four-column French Savalle still. Though the original distillery closed in 2000, the stills were preserved and moved to Diamond Distillery, where rum is still produced in the Uitvlugt style.

Where was Uitvlugt located?

Uitvlugt was located on the west bank of the Demerara River in Guyana, South America. The name “Uitvlugt” is Dutch, reflecting Guyana’s colonial history under Dutch rule before British colonization.

What characterizes Uitvlugt rum?

Uitvlugt rum is known for its lighter, more elegant profile compared to other Demerara rums. It typically features fruity notes, grassy undertones, and a refined character that comes from its unique Savalle still. This distinctive style provides a fascinating contrast to the heavier, more molasses-forward profiles of other Guyanese rums.

Where can I buy rum from Uitvlugt?

At Vault of Spirits, we occasionally offer selected independent bottlings of Uitvlugt rum. Due to the distillery’s closure in 2000, genuine Uitvlugt bottlings are increasingly rare and sought after. We hand-select the finest examples available, providing rum enthusiasts with the opportunity to experience this important piece of rum history.