To understand what Rum is, close your eyes and imagine a glass filled with liquid gold, its aroma swirling like a tropical breeze, and every sip dancing on your tongue. Yes, that's how Rum feels like. Whether you sip it neat or mix it into a classic cocktail, each drop carries the essence of centuries-old traditions and sun-soaked islands. Doesn’t matter if you are a curious beginner or an experienced consumer, this guide will help you gain valuable insights and recommendations. For premium rum selections, The Epicurean Trader is a must-try.
What is Rum?
Rum is an exquisite distilled alcoholic beverage derived from sugarcane byproducts, such as molasses or sugarcane juice, utilising a meticulous fermentation and distillation process. Its rich history dates back to the 17th century in the Caribbean, where it flourished as a prized and lucrative trade commodity.
Different Types of Rum
There are a variety of Rum available in the market. Some of the very popular categories are:
- White Rum: It’s clear and light, often used in cocktails. This is my personal favourite by the way.
- Dark Rum: They are rich and full-bodied, aged longer for deeper flavours.
- Spiced Rum: Infused with spices and flavours, perfect for mixed drinks.
How Rum is Made?
Rum production involves fermentation of byproducts of sugarcane, distilling the fermented liquid, and ageing it in barrels. The ageing process and ingredients used can significantly affect the flavour profile of the rum.
Types of Rum
White Rum
Also famous as silver rum, White rum is typically clear and light-bodied. Its flavour profiles contain subtle flavours of vanilla, tropical fruits and a touch of sweetness. White Rum is usually aged for a shorter period of time, often in stainless steel tanks and further filtered to remove colour. SelvaRey - White Rum (750ML) and Denizen - Aged White Rum (750ML) are among the finest white rums to ever exist.
Dark Rum
Dark Rum, as the name suggests, is known for its rich and deep colour along with robust flavours. Made from molasses and aged in charred oak barrels, from here only the rum gets its dark hue and complex taste. Generally, the ageing process lasts for several years, allowing the rum to develop notes of caramel, vanilla, and spices.
Ten To One - 'Caribbean' Dark Rum (750ML) is one such rum, the best dark rum trending currently.
Spiced Rum
Spiced Rum are generally rums that are infused with various spices and sometimes flavourings. Cinnamon, vanilla, cloves and nutmeg are common spices used in production. Due to these spices, Spiced rum holds a unique and aromatic flavour profile.
Candela - 'Mamajuana' Dominican Republic Spiced Rum (750ML) is a fantastic spiced rum, a must-try.
How to choose the best Rum?
A very interesting question that pops inside the head of almost every rum enthusiast, We are here to help you out with this one ;)
As we know preferences and choices are subjective and change from person to person, there are a lot of factors that need to be considered before finding a rum that you find the best.
The most crucial step is to learn and understand the types of rum and what makes them different from each other. After some good enlightenment, ask yourself questions before buying a bottle of rum, questions like, "What's the origin?", "How old the Rum is?", "What flavour profile does it possess?" "What's the purpose, a rum to sip neat, mix in cocktails, or cook with?" and most importantly reading reviews and asking for recommendations are also fantastic ways to understand what suits you and select the best rum for yourselves.
If you want something bittersweet or to make cocktails, White rum should be the liquid to cheer with!
If you are in the mood to sip something bold and robust, Dark Rums are ideal as their old ageing and strong flavour are such a charm.
Spiced Rums are basically carbon of our periodic tables, it can be fused and made into really unique drinks.
Planteray (formerly Plantation) - 'Original Dark' Double Aged Rum is the perfect choice for any casual gathering or special celebration. Its versatility makes it ideal for mixing in cocktails like rum punches or simple rum and cola.
For Sipping and Enjoying Neat Mount Gay - ‘Black Barrel’ Rum: Known for its smooth and robust flavour, this rum is ideal for sipping and savouring.
For Unique and Adventurous Tastes:
KoHana Distillers - ‘Kea Varietal’ Hawaiian Agricole Rum, made from fresh sugarcane juice, this rum offers a unique and grassy flavour, perfect for those looking to try something different.
How to enjoy Rum?
Choosing the right glass and environment matters a lot too, tulip-shaped glass with a narrow mouth helps concentrate aromas, enabling you to enjoy and appreciate the flavours.
First hold up your glass up to the light and observe the rum's colour. Typically the colour ranges from pale gold to deep mahogany.
Gently swirl the rum in the glass and feel those aromas kissing your soul. Notes of vanilla, caramel, spices and even tropical fruits, you can get it all.
Now, it is time for the home run, sip the Rum nice and slow and let your tongue absorb the taste. Pay attention to the initial taste, the tingling sensation midway and the final finishing touch.
If you are in a situation where you need to taste more than one type of rum, always start with the lighter ones, gradually moving towards darker variants. This helps prevent the strong flavours from overwhelming your taste buds. Keep drinking water nearby to refresh your mouth before trying another shot. A very basic yet soul-saving tip.
Popular rum cocktails and recipes
Daiquiri:
Ingredients:
- 2 oz white rum(like SelvaRey - White Rum)
- 1 oz fresh lime juice
- 3/4 oz simple syrup
Instructions:
- Shake all ingredients with ice.
- Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
- Garnish with a lime.
Hurricane
Ingredients:
- 2 oz light rum (Denizen - Aged White Rum)
- 2 oz dark rum (like SelvaRey - Dark Rum)
- 1 oz passion fruit juice
- 1 oz orange juice
- 1/2 oz lime juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- 1/2 oz grenadine
Instructions:
- Shake all ingredients with ice.
- Strain into a hurricane glass filled with ice.
- Garnish with an orange slice and cherry.
The Epicurean Trader's Rum Selection.
“The Epicurean Trader has something for everyone”. With this vision, The Epicurean Traders boast a very premium collection of Rum.
Some of our top recommendations include:
Plantation Artisanal Rum - 'Stiggins' Fancy' Pineapple Rum (750ML), Named best rum of 2015, with a nod to Charles Dickens, this rum is made by steeping the flesh of real Queen Victoria pineapples in aged rum.
Le Rocher Distillery - 'Clarin Le Rocher: Pignon' Single-Cask Haitian Rhum Agricole (750ML). Made at Romulus Bethel's distillery in Pignon, one of the most popular producers on the island, Le Rocher is made using sugar-cane syrup from three varieties of cane, creating a softer, sweeter palate than most Clairins.
Rum is a diverse and fascinating spirit with something to offer everyone. Whether you’re mixing cocktails or sipping it neat, there’s a rum out there for you. Explore the premium selections at The Epicurean Trader and discover your new favourite rum today.
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