What is Rum?
Rum is a type of alcoholic beverage that is made from sugar cane or its by-products, such as molasses. It is typically aged in oak barrels and blended with various spices to produce a variety of flavors and styles. Around the world, there are countless types of rum, reflecting the ingenuity of the culture of the region it’s made in, as well as the skill of the distillers.
Types of Rum
The different types of rum can be divided into two main categories: white rum and dark rum. White rum is the lightest in color and is often used in light cocktails, such as mojitos and daiquiris. It is made from fermented sugar cane juice, or a mix of fermented sugar cane juice and molasses, and has a mild, sweet flavor. Dark rum is made using molasses and is usually aged in oak barrels for several years. This aging process brings out richer flavors such as caramel, spices, and tobacco. Dark rum is usually used in stronger cocktails or enjoyed neat.
Flavors and Ingredients of Rum
In addition to organic base ingredients, such as fermented sugar cane juice or molasses, rum producers often blend in additional flavorings or ingredients to create unique flavor combinations. Common flavor additions include vanilla, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice, honey, molasses, and oak. Rum producers may also add more exotic ingredients such as anise, almond, coconut, clove, fruits, and even herbs.
Most Exotic Rum
With so many styles and types of rum to choose from, it can be hard to pick the most exotic. Below, we take a look at some of the most unique and unusual rums available.
Bacardi 8
Bacardi 8 is a unique blend of aged rums from three countries (Barbados, Jamaica, and Dominican Republic). It is aged in oak barrels for eight years, resulting in a rich and complex flavor profile. Notes of smoke, oak, and vanilla are blended together with hints of citrus, figs, and honey for a smooth, elegant finish.
Rhum J.M Single Barrel
A rhum agricole from Martinique, Rhum J.M Single Barrel is a unique blend of several vintages of rhum. It is aged in oak barrels for six years, resulting in an intense and complex flavor profile. Notes of caramel, banana, cinnamon, smoke, and chocolate are balanced with a slight bitterness from the oak, creating a flavorful and unique spirit.
Pierre Ferrand 1840
The Pierre Ferrand 1840 is a special version of the classic Pierre Ferrand cognac. It is a blend of Venezuelan and Barbadian rums that are aged for up to 15 years in oak barrels before being combined and bottled. Notes of spice, dried fruit, and brown sugar are balanced with a hint of smoke, resulting in a rich and flavorful spirit.
Plantation Xaymaca
Plantation Xaymaca is a unique blend of Jamaican rums that are aged in oak barrels for up to 10 years.The blend of pot and column still distillates is combined with notes of vanilla, coconut, caramel, banana, and sweet spices, resulting in a sweet and flavorful spirit.
Appleton Estate Signature Blend
The Appleton Estate Signature Blend is a unique blend of Jamaica’s finest rums, aged for up to 12 years in oak barrels. Notes of caramel and vanilla are balanced with subtle notes of spice and oak, creating a smooth and flavorful spirit.
Conclusion
With so many different types of rum to choose from, it can be hard to pick just one. However, each type has its own unique flavor profile and can be the perfect addition to any cocktail. Whether you’re looking for an intense and complex flavor profile or a smooth finish, one of these exotic types of rum is sure to please.
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