Our Story

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The Untold History of Alberta Rum Running

Alberta has a history of bold entrepreneurs who were willing to take risks to achieve their goals. One of the most notorious of these was Emilio Picariello, infamously known as 'Emperor Pic'. When Prohibition began, he saw an opportunity and quickly built a significant rum running operation.

Operating from his headquarters in the Blairmore Hotel in the Crowsnest Pass, Emperor Pic ran rum, whiskey and other spirits through the tight mountain passes of Alberta, British Columbia and the US Pacific Northwest.

Romero Rum is built on a rich and mostly untold history of rum running during Prohibition from the Blairmore Hotel in the Crowsnest Pass

Our Very Own Robin Hood

Although the law considered him a criminal, Emilio had another side. He often made generous charitable contributions to the community, funded a miners’ strike, and gave Christmas presents to poor families with some of the profits from his illegal bootlegging operation.

Learn more about the history behind rum running in Alberta by booking a tour and to sample our rum made using Canadian ingredients and Canadian equipment.

Continuing The Tradition

Although Romero Distilling Co. stays on the right side of the law, we do continue one of Emilio's traditions of giving back to our local community through staff volunteer efforts and ongoing contributions to local charities.

Our premium rums are exceptional and truly Canadian.

Meet The Team

Romero's Core RUM Making Values Are:

R

Respect

Respect for our customers, community, employees and environment.

U

Use

Use of local, premium Canadian made products and equipment.

M

Modesty

Modesty, an appreciation of the rich heritage of rum making.

As Canada's premier craft rum producer, Romero Distilling Co. is dedicated to continuous improvement through determination, hard work and innovation. As unique and bold as Emilio and his band of notorious outlaws, our premium rums are exceptional and truly Canadian.