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Rum, like whiskey, is one of the most popular choices among alcohol enthusiasts. For years, people have been enjoying rum due to its flavours, diverse styles, and mouthfeel. This is a distilled alcoholic beverage that is made from sugarcane byproducts, for instance, molasses or sugarcane juice. With this statement, you might think that it will be sweet like sugar, but it is not. The preparation of rum was commercialised in the early colonial period, and now it's a luxury and an affordable way to enjoy a good glass of rum. Currently, there are a variety of rums available on the market due to the variety in production.
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In the 17th century, sugarcane plantation workers discovered that molasses, a byproduct of sugar refining, could be fermented and distilled to produce alcohol. This crude form of rum quickly gained popularity among sailors and pirates, who valued its high alcohol content and long shelf life. Over time, rum production techniques were refined, and the spirit began to develop distinct regional characteristics.
Dark Rum
Dark rum, a distinct type of rum, is aged in charred oak barrels, giving it a deep, rich colour and complex flavour profile. Made from molasses or sugarcane juice, its ingredients and extended ageing process contribute to its unique characteristics. Dark rum boasts notes of caramel, molasses, vanilla, and spices, often with hints of dried fruits and tobacco.
Light Rum
Light rum, often called white or silver rum, is a clear, mild-flavoured spirit made from sugarcane byproducts like molasses or sugarcane juice. Distilled to a higher proof, light rum undergoes filtration to remove impurities and achieve clarity. Its subtle flavour, with hints of sweetness and sometimes a faint citrus or vanilla note, makes it ideal for cocktails, blending seamlessly without overpowering other ingredients.
Spiced Rum
Spiced rum is a distinct type of rum infused with various spices and flavours, giving it a unique profile. Typically, it starts with a base of aged or unaged rum, to which spices such as cinnamon, clove, vanilla, nutmeg, and allspice are added. Some varieties may also include citrus peels, ginger, or cardamom. This infusion results in a richer, more complex flavour compared to traditional rum, often featuring warm, sweet, and spicy notes.
Golden Rum
Golden rum, also known as amber rum, is a type of rum that is distinct for its rich colour and complex flavours. It is typically aged in wooden barrels, which impart a golden hue and nuanced taste to the spirit. Its balanced profile, with a hint of sweetness and a smooth finish, makes it versatile for sipping neat or mixing in cocktails.
Flavoured Rum
Flavoured rum is a type of rum infused with natural or artificial flavours, making it distinct from traditional rums. After distillation, various flavourings are added, including fruits such as coconut, lime, and pineapple, as well as spices like vanilla and cinnamon. These ingredients impart unique aromas and tastes, creating a versatile spirit ideal for cocktails. Flavoured rum's distinctive and diverse profiles appeal to those seeking a sweeter, more approachable rum experience.
Navy Rum
Navy rum is a distinct variety of rum traditionally associated with the British Royal Navy. It is known for its rich, robust flavour and deep colour, achieved through blending rums from various Caribbean islands. Ingredients typically include molasses, which is fermented and distilled, then aged in oak barrels. Navy rum is unique due to its high proof, historically 57% ABV, ensuring stability during long sea voyages and contributing to its bold, full-bodied character.
