Rum is Mythical.
From the Caribbean Sea to the freshest of cocktails, rum has been around for centuries and is imbued with a unique mystique that can’t be denied. From its links to pirates, the high seas and its signature smoothness, rum is the true king when it comes to spirit drinks. This blog post will delve into the history, variety, production and flavours of rum to give you a full overview of how this amazing drink came to be, and why it’s still so popular today. So, let’s raise a glass of rum and explore this complex and beguiling drink!
Rum’s Origins
The exact origins of rum are unknown but it’s believed that its first batch began fermenting in the tropics of the Caribbean hundreds of years ago. Early traders first began distilling rum back in the 1600’s and within the following century the spirit had made its way back to Europe where it gained immense popularity. This eventually led it to becoming the drink of choice in the British Royal Navy, eventually leading to its association with the seafaring pirate culture.
Rum even made its way to the American colonial period where it played a role in the country’s earliest economy – back then it was used as currency in some areas. Its popularity over the centuries speaks to its versatility and taste, with rum now found all over the world and as a mainstay in any home bar.
Types of Rum
There are several different types of rum that vary in taste, quality and production methods. The first and most common type of rum is White Rum, which usually has a mild aroma and flavour and is popular in mixed drinks. Unaged white rum is slightly sweeter than aged versions, however its mild flavour can often be lost when mixed.
Gold rum, which is also sometimes known as amber rum, is a step up from white rum in terms of flavour. Gold rum is bottled after aging for a certain amount of time, usually two years, in oak barrels and as a result, it has a far more complex flavour profile. It is generally sweeter and more full-bodied than white rum. Gold rum is perfect for sipping on its own or in more robust cocktails such as the Daiquiri.
Dark rum is an even more robust type of rum due to the fact it’s been aged for longer in heavily charred oak barrels that results in a more potent flavour. This type of rum generally has a far more intense and smoky flavour, making it perfect for sipping on its own or in classic cocktails such as the Old-Fashioned.
Spiced rum is a fairly recent form of rum that has been infused with spices and often sweetened with caramel or sugar. It is usually darker in colour and has a sweeter and more distinct spiced taste, making it an ideal choice for making creamy cocktails like the Mai Tai and other rum-based concoctions.
Production
The process of producing rum is essentially similar to making other types of alcohol: grains, molasses or even other fruits are fermented with yeast to produce alcohol. The aim of rum production is to extract a high-octane alcohol from either fresh-pressed cane juice or molasses, which is then distilled multiple times to create a smooth and flavourful end product.
Once distilled, rum is then aged in oak barrels, just like whiskey, for a certain length of time. This helps the spirit to develop unique flavours and gain deeper colour, complexity and smoothness. Rum can even be aged anywhere from a few months to several years, depending on its intended use.
Flavours of Rum
There are an infinite range of rum flavours out there, including sweet, sour, fruity, spicy, oaky and smoky. Depending on what specific type of rum you have, you’ll have access to a range of flavours.
White rum, as we mentioned before, is generally smoother, making it ideal for mixed drinks such as cocktails or even sipping on its own. Gold rum, on the other hand, has flavours of caramel, butterscotch and vanilla, whereas dark rum is known for its smoky and spiced flavours. Spiced rum usually has flavours of cinnamon, cardamom, vanilla and other spices, making it a great choice for a variety of cocktails.
Conclusion
Rum is one of the oldest and most respected distilled spirits in the world, with a complex history and relationship with the Caribbean and its people. There are many types and flavour variations of rum, each offering its own unique taste and experience. Whether you’re looking for a light and dry white rum, an oaky and dark-spiced dark rum, or a full-bodied gold rum, there is sure to be something to satisfy your taste buds. So the next time you’re feeling thirsty, grab a glass, open your cabinet and choose a rum for a night of spiritful fun. Cheers!