Rum - understanding the Basics
What is Rum? Main styles and types of Rum.
Rum is a distilled alcoholic beverage made from sugarcane byproducts, such as molasses, or directly from sugarcane juice. Its origins can be traced back to the Caribbean, where it was first produced in the 17th century. Rum has since become popular worldwide and is enjoyed in various cocktails or sipped straight.
There are several major styles of rum, each characterized by its production methods, ingredients, and flavour profiles:
- **White Rum/Ron Blanco**: Also known as light rum, this style is typically clear and has a light flavour. It is commonly used in cocktails like mojitos and daiquiris. White rum is usually aged for a short period and then filtered to remove colour.
- **Dark Rum**: This style is aged longer in barrels, giving it a rich colour and deeper flavour profile. Sometimes heavily charred barrels are used. Caramel colouring is also suitable for some dark rums, like the legendary Enmore marque REV from Guyana (a product of closed distillery producing Demerara rums). Dark rum often has notes of caramel, spices, and molasses, making it suitable for sipping or mixing in cocktails like the Dark 'n' Stormy.
- **Gold Rum/Ron Anejo**: Aged longer than white rum but shorter than dark rum, gold rum has a medium flavour and is often used in mixed drinks or enjoyed neat. Its colour comes from the aging process in wooden barrels.
- **Spiced Rum**: This style of rum is infused with various spices and flavourings, such as vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Spiced rum can be enjoyed on its own or used in cocktails to add complexity and warmth.
- **Overproof Rum**: With a higher alcohol content than standard rums, overproof rum is typically used in cocktails or for flaming drinks. It can have a bold flavour and is often enjoyed in small quantities.
- **Agricole Rum/Clarin**: Made from fresh sugarcane juice rather than molasses, this style is primarily produced in French-speaking Caribbean islands. Agricole rum has a distinct grassy flavour and is often enjoyed neat or in cocktails.
- **British or Navy style rum**: refers to a specific tradition of rum that has its roots in the naval practices of the British Royal Navy. Historically, rum was an essential part of the daily ration for sailors, and the British Navy played a significant role in its popularity and production.
In the 17th century, the British Navy began issuing rum to sailors as part of their daily rations. The tradition continued for centuries, and sailors would receive a daily "grog," a mixture of rum, water, and sometimes lime juice.
Navy rums are typically characterized by their higher alcohol content, often around 57% ABV (alcohol by volume), which is known as "overproof" rum. The strength was originally intended to ensure that the rum could be diluted without losing its potency.
Navy-style rums are often blends of different rums from various Caribbean islands. This blending results in a rich and complex flavour profile, often featuring notes of caramel, spices, and dried fruits.
The term "Navy rum" evokes a sense of tradition and maritime history. Many brands that produce Navy-style rum often emphasize their heritage, with references to naval battles, exploration, and the culture of seafaring.
Navy rums are typically aged in oak barrels, which imparts additional flavours and complexity. The aging process can result in a darker colour and more intense flavours compared to lighter rums.
Overall, British or Navy-style rum is celebrated for its robust character and historical significance, making it a popular choice among rum enthusiasts and those who appreciate its storied past.
- **Spanish style rum**: often referred to as "Ron" in Spanish-speaking countries, is a category of rum that is typically produced in various countries throughout the Caribbean and Latin America, particularly in places like Spain, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, and Puerto Rico. This style of rum has distinct characteristics that set it apart from other rum varieties.
Spanish-style rum is often made using sugarcane molasses, though some varieties may use fresh sugarcane juice. The fermentation and distillation processes can vary, but they generally emphasize smoothness and balance.
Spanish rums are usually aged in oak barrels, which can contribute to their rich flavours and darker colours. The aging process can vary significantly, with some rums being aged for several years to develop complexity.
Spanish-style rums are known for their smooth and mellow taste, often with notes of caramel, vanilla, and dried fruits. They tend to be less sweet than some other styles of rum, focusing on a more sophisticated flavour experience.
Within the Spanish style, there are several subcategories, including:
- **Añejo**: Aged rum that has developed more complex flavours.
- **Reserva**: A premium aged rum that is often a blend of several aged rums.
- **Blanco**: A white rum that is typically unaged or aged for a very short time and filtered for clarity.
Spanish-style rum is deeply intertwined with the cultural practices of the countries where it is produced. It is often enjoyed straight, on the rocks, or in cocktails, and is a key part of social gatherings and celebrations.
Many well-known rum brands, such as Bacardi and Ron Diplomático, produce Spanish-style rums that are enjoyed worldwide. These brands often emphasize their heritage and the craftsmanship involved in their production.
Spanish-style rum is celebrated for its smoothness and complexity, making it a favourite among rum aficionados and cocktail enthusiasts alike.
Each style of rum brings its unique characteristics to the table, making it a versatile spirit for various occasions and preferences.
The Distillation Process
The distillation of rum involves several key methods that influence the flavour, aroma, and character of the final product. Here are the main methods used in rum distillation:
- **Pot Still Distillation**:
This traditional method uses a pot still, which consists of a large, often copper, vessel where the fermented wash is heated. The alcohol evaporates and is then condensed back into liquid form.
Pot still distillation typically results in a richer and more flavorful rum, as it retains more of the original characteristics of the fermented wash. This method is commonly used for producing artisanal or high-quality rums.
- **Column Still Distillation (Continuous Still)**:
Also known as a patent still, this method uses a series of columns where the fermented wash is continuously fed through. As it rises through the columns, the alcohol vaporizes and is collected, while the wash is continually cycled through.
Column still distillation produces a cleaner and lighter rum with a higher alcohol content. This method is efficient and commonly used for large-scale production, particularly in the production of lighter rums.
- **Hybrid Distillation**:
Some distilleries employ a combination of pot and column stills, using pot stills for the first distillation to capture rich flavours and then refining the spirit in a column still for purity and higher proof.
This method allows for a balance of flavour and smoothness, producing rums that are both complex and approachable.
- **Vacuum Distillation**:
This method involves distilling at reduced pressure, which lowers the boiling point of the alcohol. This can help preserve delicate flavours and aromas that might be lost at higher temperatures.
Vacuum distillation is less common but can produce unique rums with enhanced aromatic profiles. Not very popularized in the industry.
- **Traditional vs. Modern Techniques**:
Some distilleries stick to traditional methods, emphasizing craftsmanship and small-batch production, while others utilize modern technology to enhance efficiency and consistency.
Each distillation method contributes to the final profile of the rum, affecting factors such as flavour complexity, sweetness, and overall character. The choice of distillation technique is often influenced by the desired style of rum and the traditions of the producing region.
Aging Rum
Aging rum is a critical process that shapes its flavour, aroma, and overall character. The type of barrels used and the climate in which the rum is aged significantly influence the final product. Here’s how these factors work together and a comparative overview of tropical, continental, and UK rum aging:
Barrel Influence
- **Type of Wood**: Most rum is aged in oak barrels, which can impart flavours such as vanilla, caramel, and spice. The choice of wood (e.g., American oak, French oak) and whether the barrel is new or previously used (e.g., bourbon barrels) will affect the flavour profile.
- **Charring/Toasting**: The interior of barrels can be charred or toasted, creating a layer of caramelized wood that adds complexity and some tannins to the rum.
- **Previous Contents**: Barrels that have held other spirits (like bourbon whiskey, various wines or sherry) can impart additional flavours, contributing to the uniqueness of the aged rum.
Climate Influence on Aging
The climate in which rum is aged plays a significant role in the maturation process, leading to distinct characteristics in different environments:
- Tropical Aging
- **High Temperatures and Humidity**: Tropical climates, such as those found in the Caribbean, feature consistent warmth and high humidity.
- **Faster Aging**: The higher temperatures facilitate quicker expansion and contraction of the rum within the barrel, leading to rapid interaction with the wood.
- **Flavor Profile**: Rums aged in tropical climates tend to develop bold, rich flavours more quickly, often resulting in more intense profiles with way higher alcohol levels than the rum aged in Continental or UK conditions.
- **Examples**: Rums from countries like Jamaica, Barbados, and the Philippines.
- Continental Aging
- **Cooler Temperatures and Lower Humidity**: Continental climates, found in regions like Europe or North America, experience significant temperature fluctuations and generally lower humidity levels.
- **Slower Aging**: The cooler conditions result in a slower maturation process, allowing for more gradual interaction with the wood.
- **Flavor Profile**: Rum aged in continental climates often develops more delicate flavours, focusing on complexity rather than intensity. The lower evaporation rates may also preserve more of the spirit but lower alcohol content.
- **Examples**: Rums aged in cooler regions, such as some European or American rums.
- UK Aging
- **Temperate Maritime Climate**: The UK has a temperate climate with cooler temperatures and moderate humidity.
- **Moderate Aging**: Aging in the UK occurs at a slower pace than in tropical regions, leading to a more gradual extraction of flavours from the wood.
- **Barrel Influence**: UK rum aging often utilizes barrels that have previously held other spirits (e.g., bourbon, sherry), adding unique flavour profiles. The lower evaporation rates and cooler conditions contribute to a more refined spirit.
- **Flavor Profile**: Rums aged in the UK may exhibit flavours like dried fruits, spices, caramel, and subtle herbal notes, often reflecting a blend of tropical and continental characteristics. These rums are also lower in alcohol than the ones matured in the tropics.
Exploring different Rum styles
Precious Drops offers a remarkable portfolio that showcases the diverse world of premium rums through its carefully curated series. The "Do Not Collect" bottling series and the "Guyana Cats" pair exemplify the range of styles and flavours available to rum enthusiasts.
Do Not Collect Bottling Series
This series highlights an eclectic selection of spirits beyond just rum, featuring aged rums, Scotch, Japanese single malts, grain whiskies, bourbons, cognacs, and armagnacs. Here are two standout rum releases from this series:
- **Jamaican Rum from Clarendon Estate 2004**:
This rum is characterized by its lighter profile and high ester content, which is typical of Jamaican rums. The gentle oxidation over time and the careful use of barrels have allowed for a refined and complex flavour, showcasing fruity and floral notes with a smooth finish. It offers a delightful balance between richness and subtlety, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a nuanced experience.
- **Guyana Rum from Uitvlugt Distillery 1998 Mizunara Finish**:
This rum presents a heavier structure, emphasizing the impact of barrel aging and the unique Mizunara oak finish. Expect bold flavours with deep caramel, spices, and woodsy notes that reflect the significant influence of the barrel on the spirit. The complexity and depth of this rum make it a fascinating choice for those interested in exploring the effects of different aging techniques.
Guyana Cats Pair
This pair brings together two distinctive styles of rum produced in Guyana, showcasing the unique characteristics of each:
- **White Cat Diamond 27 Years Old**:
Known as the lighter side of Guyana rums, White Cat is smooth and approachable. With a higher alcohol content, this rum offers a clean and pleasurable drinking experience, highlighting delicate flavours and a subtle finish. It's ideal for those who prefer a lighter rum that still carries the essence of its origins.
- **Black Cat Enmore REV Versailles 29 Years Old**:
This rum represents the heavier style of Demerara rums, showcasing remarkable depth and intensity. Distilled using the ancient Versailles Still, this rum carries powerful flavours with rich notes of dark chocolate, spices, and a robust character that leaves a lasting impression. The complexity and intensity make it a captivating choice for those who enjoy exploring the depths of heavy Demerara rums.
Exploring the diverse selection of rums at Precious Drops provides a unique opportunity to experience a wide range of flavours and styles. The "Do Not Collect" series and the "Guyana Cats" pair highlight the intricate differences between lighter and heavier rums, as well as the impact of aging and barrel selection. For any rum enthusiast, tasting through these selections is a delightful journey into the multiverse of rum styles.