Wine & drink in Panama
Including Boquete Highlands Spirits Region, Casco Viejo Craft Beer Quarter, and Pedasí Coastal Spirits Region. On the map.
The vibe
Drinking leans heavily into crisp local lagers and dark rum poured long and heavy in breezy courtyard bars rather than manicured tasting rooms. The humid coastal heat makes cold beer an afternoon necessity year-round, especially when the afternoon rains drive everyone under corrugated tin awnings. You will find yourself swapping quiet lounge corners for lively open-front spots where locals gather to watch the street life pass by.
Boquete Highlands Spirits Region
Chiriquí
Dick Culbert from Gibsons, B.C., Canada / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)
While world-renowned for its geisha coffee, the cool climate of the Chiriquí highlands has fostered a unique craft spirits scene, including boutique rum and fruit-infused distillates. Travelers visit to tour high-altitude estates where the focus is on artisanal production and the intersection of volcanic soil terroir with traditional Panamanian rum-making techniques.
Access. Accessible via a scenic drive from David or a domestic flight to Enrique Malek International Airport, followed by a winding road trip into the mountains.
Notes. Best visited during the dry season (December to April) for optimal touring conditions.
Casco Viejo Craft Beer Quarter
Panamá Province
Joseph vasquez alen / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
The historic district of Casco Viejo has transformed into the epicenter of Panama's craft beer revolution, featuring numerous microbreweries and taprooms housed in restored colonial buildings. It is the premier destination for travelers seeking to sample a wide array of local IPAs, stouts, and experimental brews in a dense, walkable urban setting.
Access. Located in the heart of Panama City, easily accessible by taxi or ride-share from any major hotel.
Notes. The area is highly walkable, making it perfect for a self-guided brewery crawl.
Pedasí Coastal Spirits Region
Los Santos
Joseom / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Located on the Azuero Peninsula, this region is emerging as a destination for small-batch rum production and traditional Panamanian 'seco' tasting experiences. Visitors come for the laid-back coastal vibe, touring local distilleries that emphasize the use of local sugarcane and tropical aging processes.
Access. A 5-hour drive from Panama City, or a short regional flight to Pedasí Airport.
Notes. Ideal for travelers looking to combine beach culture with authentic local spirit exploration.