Kingston, Jamaica – May 21, 2025 — Appleton Estate has officially opened the Appleton Estate Rum Museum in Kingston, offering a rich, immersive experience that blends education and entertainment to spotlight the legacy of Jamaica’s most iconic rum. Located at 23 Dominica Drive in New Kingston, the new space opened its doors on May 20, delivering what Appleton calls a world-class “edutainment” journey into the heart of Jamaican rum-making.
The museum showcases Appleton’s deep historical roots dating back to the 1700s and offers visitors a look at Jamaica’s rum through the lenses of heritage, craftsmanship, and innovation.
One exhibit walks guests through the transatlantic history of sugar production, highlighting the brutal legacy of enslavement and the rise of Jamaica as the British Empire’s leading sugar exporter. Another centerpiece features Dr. Joy Spence, Appleton’s Master Blender and the first woman in the world to hold that title, whose pioneering work and accolades are honored throughout the exhibit.
“This museum represents far more than just a timeline of our achievements,” said Dominic Bell, Communications Manager for J. Wray & Nephew Limited. “It’s a dynamic space where visitors can feel, taste, and understand the soul of Appleton Estate.”
Visitors can explore the rum-making process—from fermentation and distillation to barrel aging—with interactive exhibits that explain Appleton’s blend of science, tradition, and artistry. The experience also places special emphasis on Appleton’s Signature Blend and 8-Year-Old Reserve, showcasing their mixability and unmatched quality.
The Kingston location offers a scaled-down version of the Joy Spence Appleton Estate Rum Experience based in St. Elizabeth, making it more accessible for urban visitors and international tourists. Open throughout May and June, the museum is part of a broader push by Appleton to drive brand awareness, boost tourism, and deepen consumer appreciation for Jamaican rum.