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Rum is a versatile and delicious spirit that is enjoyed all over the world. Made from fermented sugarcane juice or molasses, rum has a unique flavor profile that is shaped by the aging process and the region in which it is produced. But despite its popularity, many people don’t know much about rum beyond the fact that it’s a great base for cocktails. In this blog post, we’re going to dive deep into the world of rum and explore some interesting questions that you might not have considered before.
First up, let’s talk about one of the most intriguing nicknames in the world of spirits – “Navy style” rum. If you’ve ever been to a liquor store or perused a cocktail menu, you’ve probably seen this term used before, but you might not know why rum is associated with the Navy. The truth is, rum has a long and complicated history with the British Royal Navy, which is where the “Navy style” nickname comes from.
For centuries, the Royal Navy was one of the most powerful and influential military forces in the world. In order to keep up the morale of sailors who were spending long months at sea, the Navy would provide a daily ration of rum to each crew member. This practice began in the 18th century and continued until 1970, when the daily rum ration was officially abolished. The daily ration was known as a “tot” and would usually consist of about half a pint of rum per sailor.
But why did the Navy choose rum as their preferred liquor for this daily ration? The answer lies in the fact that rum was a cheap and readily available spirit that could be easily transported and stored on ships. In addition, rum had a higher alcohol content than beer or wine, which made it a more effective way to keep crew members in good spirits (pun intended). And because rum was often produced in British colonies in the Caribbean and South America, it made sense for the Navy to use it as a way to support these important trading relationships.
Over time, the tradition of the daily tot became deeply ingrained in Royal Navy culture. Sailors would gather on deck at noon each day to receive their rum ration, which was often mixed with water or lime juice to make it more palatable. And because the Navy had such a strong association with rum, the spirit became known as “Navy style” rum in the decades that followed.
Today, “Navy style” rum has become a catch-all term for any rum that has a bold, full-bodied flavor profile. These rums are typically aged for longer periods of time and have a higher proof than other types of rum. If you’re a fan of rum and haven’t tried “Navy style” yet, it’s definitely worth seeking out – just be prepared for a spirit with some serious bite!
Now, let’s shift gears and talk about a more lighthearted aspect of rum culture – the practice of floating a lime on top of a rum-based cocktail. If you’ve ever ordered a mojito, a daiquiri, or any other rum-based drink, you’ve probably noticed that it’s often served with a lime wedge or slice on the rim of the glass. But have you ever wondered why bartenders choose to use a floating lime instead?
There are actually a few different reasons why floating a lime on top of a rum cocktail has become such a popular practice. For one, the acidity of the lime juice helps to balance out the sweetness of the rum, creating a perfectly balanced flavor profile. In addition, the scent of the lime can enhance the aroma of the drink, making it more enticing and refreshing. But perhaps the biggest reason why bartenders use a floating lime is simply for aesthetics – the bright green citrus fruit adds a pop of color and visual interest to the cocktail, making it more appealing and Instagram-worthy.
Of course, there’s no hard and fast rule about how to garnish a rum cocktail – some bartenders choose to use other fruits or herbs, or even eschew garnishes altogether. But the practice of floating a lime on top of a rum drink has become so closely associated with the spirit that it’s hard to imagine one without the other.
In conclusion, rum is a fascinating spirit with a rich history and plenty of quirky traditions. Whether you prefer “Navy style” rum or a classic rum cocktail with a floating lime, there’s no denying that this spirit has a unique and enduring appeal. So the next time you order a rum drink, take a moment to appreciates the intricate flavors and cultural significance of this beloved spirit. Cheers to rum!
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