LIFESTYLE & INTERIORS FOR YOU
Wines
August 25, 2023
An inside guide to Rum – A choice liquor worldwide
Words Charlot Farrugia
We are in the midst of summer, and there is nothing more refreshing than an ice-cold cocktail for a well-deserved break from this unbearable heat. One of the most versatile base spirits for cocktails has to be Rum. Rum comes in many different styles, and can, thus, be used in a variety of cocktails and long drinks.
Rum is a sugar-fermented spirit which finds its origins in Brazil, but it soon became very popular in the West Indies with the introduction of sugar plantations on these islands. It quickly became a favourite with seamen as a way of disguising the bad taste of stagnant water that was provided on ships at the time. Rum’s popularity continued growing over the years, and nowadays, it is a staple in every decent bar around the world.
Rums are classified as follows:
White Rum: Also known as Silver Rum, these rums are aged for one or two years and then filtered to remove any colouring. They are mainly used for cocktails such as Mojitos, Daiquiris, and many more.
Gold Rum: These rums are aged for longer than the white ones, and so, they are usually more flavourful, mostly depending on the barrel they are aged in. They can be used for cocktails or enjoyed on ice.
Dark Rum: These are aged for an even longer period of time, and so, the barrel imparts more colour and more flavour. These are mainly consumed neat or on the rocks.
Black Rum: These are the darkest in colour from all rums and are usually made from dark molasses, but they have a light to medium body. These rums are mainly used for cocktails, as they produce a more intense flavour than any other rums.
Flavoured and Spiced Rum: These rums are generally infused with spices or flavours such as vanilla, coconut, cloves, mango, citrus, and many more. They are usually consumed as long drinks or mixed in as part of a cocktail.
Premium-Aged Rums: These rums are top of the range amongst all rums. They are usually aged for a considerable period of time, and you can find an age statement on many bottles. These rums can be enjoyed neat or on the rocks, but can also be used for high-end cocktails.
