Rum Geography

An Invitation to Learn About Rum

Rum, a spirit celebrated for its versatility and rich history, is as diverse as the regions from which it originates. Its diversity is so significant, that even experts have a difficult time agreeing on how to classify the broad spectrum of rum. To keep things simple and approachable, we decided to use one traditional classification system to help newcomers begin to develop understanding. For novices venturing into the world of rum, understanding the distinct styles that emerge from Spanish–, French–, and British–heritage rum can be both enlightening and essential in appreciating rum’s complexity. Each tradition brings its own unique methods, flavors, and characteristics to the table, painting a broad spectrum of tastes and aromas that cater to a wide array of palates.

Spanish–Heritage
Rum (Ron)

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Originating from Spanish–speaking countries, Spanish–heritage rum, or “Ron,” is renowned for its smooth, sweet, and often complex flavor profile. Produced primarily from molasses, these rums can range from light-bodied varieties ideal for mixing, to richer, heavier, more flavorful expressions found in longer-aged offerings. Countries or territories like Cuba, Puerto Rico, and Panama are bastions of this style, producing rums that are celebrated for their nutty, dry, buttery, and fruity qualities. A key aspect of Spanish–heritage rum is the aging process, often denoted by terms like refined and smooth. Many Spanish rums are distilled using column stills and may employ a Solera aging system. This intricate process involves a cascading blend of rums of different ages in a tiered barrel system, ensuring final product that embodies a blend of various ages, with the average age of rums or the age of the oldest rum in the blend often highlighted.

French–Heritage
Rhum Agricole

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The French islands of the Caribbean feature Rhum Agricole, a style that stands in stark contrast to its Spanish counterpart. Distilled from fresh pressed sugar cane juice rather than molasses, Rhum Agricole boasts a drier, more vegetal, and floral profile. This method preserves much of the original flavor of the sugar cane, resulting in a rum that is refined, grassy, and complex.
The French islands, particularly Martinique with its Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée (AOC) designation, adhere to strict regulations governing everything from the sugarcane varietal to distillation and aging methods. In order to meet the requirements of the AOC specifications, Rhum Agricole must be made using columns stills. In addition, distilled output must be between 65% and 75% ABV. This meticulous attention to detail ensures that Rhum Agricole maintains its unique character, offering a distinct taste that is both earthy and floral.

British–Heritage
Rum

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Rums of the English-speaking Caribbean, including Jamaica, Barbados, St. Lucia, and Guyana, are characterized by their darker, fuller profiles. These rums, often distilled in pot stills, retain a significant amount of the molasses flavor, resulting in a bold, rich, and aromatic spirit. The use of pot stills contributes to the rum’s depth and complexity, making British–heritage rums appealing to those who favor a more robust flavor. Jamaican rums, in particular, feature a distinct, “funky” flavor. A notable aspect of British heritage rum is the concept of “Navy Strength,” a tradition stemming from the British Royal Navy’s practice of providing daily rations of rum to sailors. Navy Strength rums are potent, bottled at 57% alcohol by volume, ensuring that even if spilled on gunpowder, it would still ignite. This strong and bold characteristic is a hallmark of British–heritage rums, embodying the spirit of adventure and resilience.

An Invitation to Experience
The people, land, and resources of each unique place

For newcomers exploring the world of rum, understanding and appreciating the nuances between Spanish–, French–, and British–heritage rums is crucial. Each tradition offers a unique perspective on rum production, from the smooth and sweet profiles of Spanish rums to the dry and vegetal notes of French Rhum Agricole, and the bold, rich flavors of British–heritage rums. Rum is a sensory expression of the people, land, and resources of each unique place. By appreciating the distinct characteristics and historical contexts of these styles, enthusiasts can embark on a flavorful journey that spans the globe, discovering the rich diversity and complexity that rum and diverse cultures have to offer. 

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