“Rum: The Spirit of Summer Celebration.”
Nothing quite says summer like a cool drink of rum! From pirate tales to beachside bonfires, rum has been around for centuries and is firmly a part of many cultures and cuisines. But where did this versatile sprit come from and how can we enjoy it responsibly? Let’s take a closer look at rum and what it has to offer!
Origins of Rum
The origins of rum can be traced back as far as the 17th century. With the rise of colonialism and the need to sweeten some of the less desirable drinks of the day, entrepreneurs in Jamaica discovered a way to ferment molasses and create a white, clear spirit that we now know as rum.
The word “rum” comes from the Latin words saccharum and ruminare, which means “sugared” or “to think over.” The link between the English word “rum” and the Latin root likely comes from the way in which molasses was used as a base ingredient by the British as they tried to improve their supply of wine and beer.
Rum Varieties
Over the past few centuries, rum has evolved into a wide variety of styles and sub-types. Each type has its own distinct flavor profile that can vary greatly depending on the country of origin, aging process, proof, and even the specific recipe.
Light Rum – Light rum is aged for up to a year in oak barrels and has a light, slightly sweet flavor profile. This style of rum is great for making light, refreshing cocktails like mojitos and piña coladas.
Dark Rum – Dark rum is aged for a longer period of time in heavily charred oak barrels, which gives it a deeper, more complex flavor. This style of rum is usually reserved for sipping neat or on the rocks, but it also works well in classic tiki drinks like a Mai Tai or zombie.
Spiced Rum – Spiced rum is aged for a minimum of two years in oak barrels before being infused with spices, herbs, and other ingredients. It’s usually a bit sweeter than other types of rum and works great when mixed with juices and other mixers.
Types of Rum-based Cocktails
Rum is a very versatile spirit and can be used in mixed drinks like daiquiris, mojitos, and planters punch. If you’re looking for a classic rum-based cocktail, there are plenty to choose from. Here are a few of the most popular rum cocktails that you can easily make at home:
Daiquiris – Daiquiris are classic rum drinks that are made with lime juice, sugar, and ice.
Mojitos – Mojitos are a popular rum-based cocktail made with lime juice, sugar, and mint.
Pina Coladas – Pina coladas are a popular tiki-inspired rum cocktail made with pineapple, coconut, and lime juice.
Planters Punch – Planters punch is a rum-based cocktail made with orange, lime, and pineapple juices.
Enjoying Rum Responsibly
As with any alcoholic beverage, it’s important to drink responsibly and understand your limits. Rum is a very potent spirit and can have adverse effects if consumed in excess. So remember to always have a designated driver or use public transportation if you plan on drinking.
Conclusion
There’s no doubt that rum has a special place in our culture. From pirate tales and beachside bonfires to classic rum-based cocktails, rum has been a part of many cultures for centuries and continues to be enjoyed by many today. Whether you’re sipping a light rum on the rocks or mixing up a classic daiquiri, the spirit of rum is alive and well. So the next time you’re looking to enjoy a cool drink of rum, think about the origins of the spirit and remember to drink responsibly. Cheers!