Sipping on Rums the World Over: a Tour of the Most Exotic Flavours.
If you love the sweet yet smoky flavour of rum, then you’re not alone among the millions – no, billions of fans throughout the world who revel in the taste, aroma and complex flavours of this truly unique and diverse spirit. Whether served neat or as part of a classic cocktail, rum is as versatile as it is delicious. And with rums from all over the world, from the Caribbean to Latin America and beyond, there’s no shortage of destinations to explore taking you on a global taste adventure.
Originating in the Caribbean in the early 17th century, rum is soon to be celebrated its 400th anniversary in 2020. Its production and popularity quickly spread throughout the world with its unique sweet and spicy taste gaining a devoted fan base. From its humble beginnings as a by-product of sugar plantations on the islands, to becoming an internationally loved and renowned drink, it has truly come a long way.
In general, rum is either there is either light and clear or dark, rich and syrupy varieties. Whichever you prefer, they can all be broadly categorised into two main types – aged and un-aged. Un aged, or white rum will be light and sweet with a hint of alcohol. Un aged rums are believed to have originated in Barbados, and this clear type is a main component for many well-known drinks such as the classic Daiquiri or Mojito. In contrast, aged rums will have a sweet, smoky, complex flavour. It may be darker in colour and is usually made by distilling the un aged variety before it is aged in oak barrels for up to 10 years or longer.
If you are a discerning whiskey drinker, you will be delighted to know that there are a few aged varieties of rum that are aged over a similar length of time, leading to the same rich flavours but with an added twist. Many countries have their own rums that you can invest in to experience a flavour unique to them.
In the Caribbean, rum is a tradition practiced and encapsulated by different countries with varying flavours and nuances. One of the most popular is Havana Club from Cuba, whose rums are a balance between mature, oaky sweetness and the freshness of tropical fruits. Its signature white variety has a light and elegant flavour. J. Wray & Nephew Overproof is the original high strength rum, which has earned the title of “original party starter” due to its high alcoholic content and intense flavour.
Venezuela’s Santa Teresa 1796 is a premium rum that is matured and quadruple distilled has tasting notes of burnt oranges and coconut. The country’s other well-known rum, Pampero, is also a aging process for up to two years and is renowned for a smooth and sweet taste. In Jamaica, Appleton Estate is known as the go-to producer of the best rum. Its 10- and 12-year reserve rums have oaky, mellow flavors.
In Brazil and Latin America there is also a variety of rums to explore. One of the most popular and iconic Brazilian rums is Cachaça 51. This is a spirit from fermented sugar cane juice, distilled in clay pots and then aged. It has a distinctive flavor thanks to its woody, mellow note. Among other Latin American rums is Ron Zacapa Centenario from Guatemala, a blend of rums aged for 6 to 23 years in ex-bourbon barrels. And Panama’s Abuelo, where aging occurs for up to 7 years in oak barrels, leading to a smooth and slightly sweet rum.
One distinct form of rum from all over the world are spiced and flavoured varieties. They are made by adding exotic spices and herbs to un aged white rum. This can often be done to dark rums too resulting in deliciously sweet rums with notes of vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and even chocolate. For those seeking a unique rum experience, spiced and flavoured rums can add a unique twist to the cocktails and drinks you make.
No matter which type of rum you prefer, one thing remains certain – its popularity will never fade. With so much to choose from, its no wonder that people all over the world are always looking to find their perfect rum. Whether you enjoy a classic straight pour or an exotic flavoured version, rum has a unique flavour for everyone to savour and enjoy.