Pitorro
A high proof artisanal rum, traditionally distilled outside the legal system, that appears in island homes at Christmas. It is usually steeped with fruit, coconut or spices in a jar for weeks. Licensed distilleries now bottle legal versions, but the homemade one is still what gets handed around.
Example
If a household pulls out an unlabeled jar with fruit floating inside and pours you a finger, that is pitorro and it does not drink like bar rum.
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Frequently asked questions
Is it legal?
Unlicensed home distilling is not, though the tradition continues. Licensed distilleries do sell bottled legal versions.
How strong is it?
Considerably stronger than commercial rum, with versions above 100 proof. It is sipped in small pours.
