Rum Day DC Kicks Off w/ 'Smoking' Hot Summer Soiree Atop Graham Hotel

GEORGETOWN -- There was a virtual stampede to the prized rooftop of The Graham hotel on Thursday evening, as Rum Day DC kicked off its 2014 celebration with a crowded summer soiree.



Guests to the widely attended party were treated to a tasting of premium flights of aged rum from the likes of Mount Gay Black Barrel, Atlantico Rum, and Ron Zacapa labels, among others.



Three rum specialty cocktails had also been created for the occasion, which afforded those curious about the primarily sugarcane-based spirit a relaxing way to ease into the evening. And everyone's ticket also came with a complimentary cigar courtesy of co-host Georgetown Tobacco.



Yesterday's 'rumming of the bulls' was actually just the start of a festive three day affair, which began with the 'Rooftop Rum & Smoke Soiree' at The Graham and continues tonight with a specially chartered 'Rum Runner Party Bus' that will make bottomless stops at several of the city's trendiest watering holes (Lincoln, Smith Public Trust, The Atlas Room, Farmers Fishers Bakers).



Timed to coincide with America's National Rum Day, Rum Day DC then culminates on Saturday, August 16th with a can't miss 'Rum-B-Que' at Jack Rose Dining Saloon. The hotspot's award-winning beverage director, Trevor Frye, will unveil six bottomless rum-based punch stations at the party and Chef Russell Jones will be serving-up everything from pulled pork sliders to pork belly skewers to grilled chicken from his wood-fired grill.



Now in its 4th year, Rum Day DC is a holiday hosted by some of the rum industry's top brands to help educate consumers about the spirit by highlighting its diverse flavor profile and versatility. In drawing equally from all aspects of the mixology, culinary, and cultural worlds, the celebration provides area foodies and cocktails hounds with a unique opportunity to sip and savor.



And that's something worth raising a glass to.