Located in the center of town, Desert Cane Distillery is more than just a rum producer—it’s a hub of creativity and local pride. Owned by Lacy Miller and Tom Dahlman, the distillery has become a staple in the community since its opening almost four years ago.
Tom and his wife originally began the venture after discovering a surprising affinity for growing sugar cane in the Nevada desert. “When we first moved out here, we planted some cane, and it thrived,” Tom recalls. “We experimented with it a few times, and eventually decided to explore the world of rum-making.” This simple curiosity sparked a journey that led to the establishment of Desert Cane Distillery. In January, Lacy joined the business, bringing new energy and ideas to the team.
Transitioning from an idea to a fully functioning distillery wasn’t easy. “It took four years just to get all the paperwork and regulations sorted out,” Tom explains. But their persistence paid off, and today, Desert Cane Distillery is known for its distinctive rums.
What makes Desert Cane Distillery stand out in the crowded spirits market is its commitment to local sourcing and innovative techniques. The rum they produce is unique, not just because one is made with Pahrump-grown sugar cane, but also because of the meticulous process they use. “Our Agricole rum, made from fresh, locally grown sugar cane juice, is a great example of our approach,” Lacy says. The cane is harvested, juiced, and fermented over 8 to 12 days before being distilled—a process that embodies the distillery’s hands-on, detail-oriented philosophy.
While the Agricole rum is crafted using fresh sugar cane juice, their other rums are created from brown sugar. The process begins by adding about 96 pounds of brown sugar to a 50-gallon tank, which is then filled with water and yeast. This mixture is left to ferment for about 8 to 12 days. Once fermentation is complete, the product is transferred to the still, where it undergoes distillation—a process that takes approximately 12 hours to separate the alcohol from the wash. This distillation results in about six to seven gallons of usable rum. The remaining wash, or “dunder,” is reused to kickstart the fermentation of the next batch, ensuring a consistent and rich flavor profile unique to Desert Cane’s rums. The variety of rums they produce, such as the crystal, spiced, and dark rums, are further enhanced by their unique flavor infusions and aging techniques, setting them apart from other rums on the market.
Unlike traditional distilleries that use barrels for aging, Desert Cane opts for oak chips soaked in cherry and bourbon, which are then placed in large glass carboys with rum. This method infuses a rich, layered flavor profile into their spirits in a shorter time. “It’s our way of bringing a unique twist to the aging process,” Lacy explains.
Desert Cane Distillery prides itself on its creative and bold flavor profiles. With a range of seven flavors available year-round and an additional seasonal option, there’s something for everyone. From the refreshing Lime and Coconut Rum to the spice-filled Spiced Rum, each variety is crafted using fresh, natural ingredients. “We don’t use any artificial flavorings here,” Lacy notes. “Everything comes from fresh fruits and spices, which gives our rums their distinctive taste.”
They also offer limited-edition releases, like their “Them Apples” rum, which is infused with apple flavors and spices for a unique fall offering. This spirit of experimentation and commitment to quality ingredients ensures that Desert Cane remains a favorite among both locals and visitors.
The variety of rums they produce serves as the perfect base for an array of unique and delicious mixed drinks. Their lime and coconut rum is a fan favorite, known for making a refreshing piña colada that perfectly captures the essence of summer. The spiced rum, with its blend of 11 different spices and fresh fruit, pairs wonderfully with hot apple cider or root beer, creating warm, comforting drinks that are ideal for cooler weather. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, the jalapeño rum is a standout, combining citrus notes with a kick, perfect for a spicy margarita or a zesty limeade. Their dark rum, with its caramel undertones, makes an excellent base for a classic Mai Tai or a Dark and Stormy, while the oak amber rum’s whiskey-like profile is perfect for crafting an old-fashioned with a twist. Desert Cane’s diverse range of rums allows them to offer something for every palate, making each visit to their tasting room a new adventure in flavor.
Community involvement is a cornerstone of Desert Cane Distillery’s philosophy. They make a point of sourcing materials locally whenever possible, supporting other small businesses in Pahrump. “We use local suppliers for our mint, tumblers, and T-shirts,” Lacy says. This approach not only strengthens community ties but also adds a local touch to their products.
Education is another key element of their business model. The distillery offers daily tours, where guests can learn about the rum-making process, from fermentation to aging. “We love showing people how we do things here,” Lacy explains. “It’s all about sharing our passion and knowledge with our customers.”
Like any small business, Desert Cane Distillery has faced its share of challenges. “Navigating the regulations and taxes was tough,” Tom admits. Lacy adds that juggling various responsibilities in the business can be demanding, but it’s all part of the job. Despite these hurdles, they remain focused on growth and innovation. “Our next big goal is to start distributing our products more widely, both locally and in places like Las Vegas,” Lacy shares.
The future looks bright for Desert Cane Distillery, with plans to expand their distribution and continue experimenting with new flavors and products. They’re also planning more community events and seasonal releases to keep things fresh and exciting for their loyal customer base. “We’re always looking to try new things and offer something unique,” Lacy concludes.
Desert Cane Distillery is open Tuesday through Thursday from 12 pm to 7 pm, Friday and Saturday from 12 pm to 8 pm, and Sunday from 1 pm to 5 pm. For more information, visit their website at desertcanedistillery.com or call 775-505-4178. Whether you’re a seasoned rum enthusiast or just curious to learn more, Desert Cane Distillery offers a warm welcome and a unique tasting experience.
