“The Spirit of Good Times: All You Need to Know About Rum.”
The unique flavor of rum has been captivating the hearts and minds of adults from all walks of life for centuries. From its roots in the Caribbean and its colorful history in American and Caribbean rums, nothing quite symbolizes good times more than a glass of rum. Let’s dive into the rich history and flavorful varieties of this fantastic spirit.
Rum originates from the Caribbean islands and the term “rum” was supposedly derived from “rumbullion” or “kill devil” – two words describing the drink back in the 1700s. Rum is distilled from sugar or molasses, and its flavor cascades through many variations. From light, flowery and fruity aromas to intense spices and smoky notes, all types of rum can be appreciated as they are lovingly crafted through different processes.
American and Caribbean rums are the most common types of rum and are divided into two categories. Light rums, also known as white or silver rums, have a clear color and a mild flavor. Popular brands of light rum include Bacardi, Don Q, and Cruzan. Dark rums, also known as black or amber rums, are full-bodied with a deep, almost caramelized flavor. Popular brands of dark rum include Captain Morgan, Kraken, and Appleton Estate.
In terms of production, there are three main styles of rum – traditional pot stills, continuous stills, and dunder tanks. Traditional pot stills, which are used to make the majority of Jamaica’s rum, are a two-stage distillation process that produces unfiltered, full-flavored rum. Continuous stills and dunder tanks are multi-column still variations that produce a cleaner, more refined rum with muted flavors.
Spiced and flavored rums can also be requested at bars and mixology venues. Spiced rum contains unique flavors such as orange, nutmeg, and cinnamon, while flavored rums have fruit-flavored varieties like coconut, banana, and mango.
Rum is more than just a spirit – it’s a way of life. Exploring its unique flavor profiles and experimenting with mixology is an amazing way to learn more about this fascinating spirit. Whether you’re enjoying it by itself, in a cocktail, or just talking about it amongst friends, rum will always keep the spirit up and good times going.