“Rum, Your New Favourite Tipple?.”
Who doesn’t like the taste of rum? From light, refreshing white rums to dark and full-bodied favourites, it’s a liquor that’s sure to appease most palates. It’s no secret that rum is one of the world’s most popular spirits, and it’s easy to see why. Packed full of sweetness, aroma and flavour, it’s the ideal accompaniment to any good party.
But there’s a lot more to this spirit than just a sweet taste. Unlike other spirits, rum has a unique and fascinating history. For many, drinking rum goes beyond just enjoying a glass of liquid. It’s a way to explore new cultures, discover exotic islands and transport yourself to a time long gone by.
So, why is rum so beloved? Let’s explore the history and allure of this celebration-inducing liquor.
Rum has an early origin story stretching back to the mid-1600s when it was first made from sugar cane. The process of creating it was so highly-skilled and complex that it was usually produced and sold by wealthy merchants who had access to the cane.
From the Caribbean, rum soon spread to Europe, Africa and the Americas. Drinking it was thought to aid digestion, ward off fatigue and even heal wounds. It soon became associated with various cultures and used as a form of currency. In the 1660s, British Royal Navy captains paid their sailors a ration of a quart of rum or other spirits a day — an idea that’s still celebrated today in the military salute of “Up Spirits” as a glass of rum is raised in a toast.
Rum also found its place in the world of piracy, with of some of the most feared sailors known to quench their thirst with a hearty swig of the spirit. This connection saw the rise of famous rum concoctions like Captain Morgan’s Spiced Rum.
Centuries on and the popularity of rum still stands strong. In the Caribbean today, rum is still largely made from sugar cane and harvested from the same fields that our forebearers farmed centuries earlier. The production process still incorporates some of the old-world customs. The sugar cane is almost always hand-harvested, then it’s molasses processing and ageing in barrels – oak, mahogany, sherry and cognac – for days, weeks, months and even years.
The varieties of rum now available around the world are impressive. Entire collections of white, golden, dark, spiced and even infused rums exist, each with a unique aroma and taste. And the range of cocktails is just as varied. Mojitos, mai tais, daiquiris, and pina coladas are just some of the classic tipples where rum takes centre stage.
So, is rum your new favourite tipple of choice? It’s up to you. But if you’re looking for a spirit with history, flavour and versatility, rum is your best bet.