Colombia grows some of the world’s most distinctive cacao and distils rum with a long Caribbean tradition, and this short tasting puts the two together. It is a small-group session of about two hours in which a host walks you through the story of cacao from bean to bar and pours rum alongside, so that you can taste how the chocolate’s fruity, nutty or earthy notes echo or contrast with the spirit. The experience we link is billed with castle views, which means that between sips you look out toward the great stone fortress of San Felipe on its hill. Rum and chocolate is an easy pairing to enjoy even if you know nothing about either, and the session is a pleasant, low-effort way to spend part of an afternoon or early evening in a city where hot days call for something sheltered, sweet and a little strong.
How it works
You meet the host at the venue, take a seat with the other guests and receive a flight of chocolates and rums, one pair at a time. The host explains what you are tasting, how it was made and how to taste it properly: smell first, small bites, small sips, then reflect on the finish.
Groups are small, so you can ask questions and compare notes. The format is educational but relaxed, and nobody expects expert knowledge. If you do not drink alcohol, ask in advance whether the chocolate part can be enjoyed on its own.
What to expect
The chocolate side introduces cacao as an agricultural product, with a story that runs from small Colombian farms to the processing that turns beans into bars. The rum side tells of sugar cane, ageing in barrels and the way the Caribbean shaped Colombian drinking. The pairings are the highlight, since a dark chocolate with a hint of fruit can transform an aged rum into something rounder and warmer. Expect to learn a handful of tasting terms, and to leave with opinions about which pairings worked best for you.
Making the most of it
Eat a light lunch beforehand but do not arrive stuffed, since the chocolate is rich. Drink water between tastings, and pace yourself, because several pours add up in the heat. Choose a late afternoon slot if you want the best views toward the fortress as the light softens. If you are travelling with a mixed group, check whether non-drinkers can join the chocolate portion. Combine the session with the old town’s plazas and a walk down to the ramparts, then dinner nearby, and you have a perfectly paced evening.
Planning around it
The session fits neatly between a morning of sightseeing and dinner, so slot it into the late afternoon and walk back through the old town afterwards. If you are curious about Colombian cacao, ask the host where to buy good bars to take home, since they make excellent gifts and travel well if kept cool.
Remember that rum and heat combine quickly, so drink water as you go, and avoid planning anything demanding straight afterwards. A short walk along the ramparts is the perfect way to end the evening. Take a few notes on which pairings you liked best, so you can order with confidence at the city’s bars and chocolate shops.
What to expect
The experience
A guided small-group flight of Colombian chocolates paired with rums, with views toward the castle.
Best time
Late afternoon, when the light is soft and the heat is easing.
How long
About two hours.
Tips
Eat lightly beforehand, drink water between pours and ask about non-alcoholic options if needed.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Curious drinkers and chocolate lovers who want a short, sociable tasting.
- Families
- Mostly an adult experience, because of the rum; check what children can do before you book.
- Couples
- An easy, romantic hour or two before dinner.
- Pair with
- Sunset on the city walls, a short walk from the old town.
- Time needed
- About two hours.
Good questions
Is this tasting only for people who drink rum?+
Rum is central to the pairings. If you do not drink alcohol, ask the host beforehand about enjoying the chocolate part alone.
How long does the tasting take?+
The experience we link takes about two hours in a small group.
Do I need to know about chocolate or rum?+
No. The host explains the production and how to taste each pairing, so complete beginners are welcome.
What are the castle views?+
The venue looks toward Castillo San Felipe de Barajas on San Lázaro hill, so you can see the fortress between tastings.
Can I buy chocolate or rum afterwards?+
Hosts can usually recommend where to buy good Colombian chocolate and rum in the city. Ask at the end of the session.
