Jeff Davis Rum Distillery Receives Federal Approval

A brand new state-of-the-art rum distillery, the first of its kind in the state, is one step closer to becoming a reality.

Louisiana Spirits, which is building the distillery in Laccassine, received approval from the United States Department of the Treasury's Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau on Wednesday.

"Our vision for a world class rum distillery in Louisiana is coming to life," Louisiana Spirits President Trey Litel says.

"We are energized by this approval and we look forward to working with  the Louisiana ATC and Department of Revenue to complete our operating license requirements," Litel says.

Louisiana Spirits announced at the beginning of the year that it would build the rum facility in Jefferson Davis Parish.

The distillery will produce Louisiana-branded rum using local sugar cane. The facility will also feature a visitor's center which will showcase the state's rum and sugar cane culture.

Litel says the distillery will create 17 to 20 full time jobs.

The company's website says to expect rum production to begin sometime this year.