History & Timeline of Rum
Rum is a type of distilled spirit that is made from sugarcane or molasses and is typically aged in oak barrels, which gives it a rich, complex flavor. The history of rum dates back hundreds of years and is closely tied to the rich history of sugarcane cultivation in the Caribbean.
The origins of rum can be traced back to the 17th century, when sugarcane was first introduced to the Caribbean by the Spanish. Sugar production quickly became a major industry in the region and it wasn't long before the locals began distilling the sugarcane juice and molasses to produce a higher-alcohol spirit known as rum.
Rum quickly became a popular drink in the Caribbean and was eventually exported to other parts of the world including Europe and the United States. In the 18th and 19th centuries, rum was a key ingredient in many of the cocktails that were popular in the United States, including the Daiquiri and the Mojito.
Rum Production
The process of making rum involves several steps. First, the sugarcane or molasses is selected and prepared. The sugarcane or molasses is then mashed and fermented to produce a low-alcohol liquid known as "wash." The wash is then placed in a still and heated to a high temperature, which causes the alcohol to vaporize and rise to the top. As the vapor rises, it passes through a copper coil, which is cooled by cold water. This causes the vapor to condense back into a liquid form, which is collected in a separate container.
The resulting liquid, known as the "heart" of the distillation, is then further processed and refined to produce the final product. This may involve the removal of impurities through filtration or other methods.
Once the rum has been distilled and refined, it is usually aged in oak barrels to add complexity. Rum is typically bottled and labeled for sale after it has been aged for a period of time. This time can range from several months to several years depending on the style of rum being produced.
The history of rum is a long and fascinating one. Rum was originally produced as a way to make use of the sugarcane juice and molasses left over from the production of sugar, but over time it became a popular and distinctive spirit that is enjoyed around the world.
History & Timeline of Rum Production
1650s - The first distillation of rum takes place in the Caribbean, likely on the island of Barbados.
Late 1600s - Rum becomes a popular drink among sailors and pirates due to its ability to be stored for long periods of time without spoiling.
1703 - Mount Gay Rum, one of the oldest rum brands in the world, is established in Barbados.
1730s - The Royal Navy begins issuing rum rations to sailors, which continues until 1970.
Late 1700s - Rum becomes an important commodity in the triangular trade between Europe, Africa, and the Americas.
Early 1800s - The production of rum begins to spread beyond the Caribbean to other parts of the world, including the United States and Canada.
1830s - Industrial production of rum begins in the United States, with the establishment of large-scale distilleries.
Late 1800s - Rum production declines in the Caribbean due to competition from other spirits such as whisky and gin.
1920s - The Prohibition era in the United States leads to a rise in illegal rum production and smuggling from the Caribbean.
1940s-1950s - The popularity of rum increases in the United States, with the rise of Tiki culture and the creation of popular rum-based cocktails such as the Mai Tai and the Zombie.
1980s-1990s - The production of premium and artisanal rums begins to gain popularity, with producers focusing on small-batch and aged rums.
Today, rum remains a popular spirit around the world, with a wide range of styles and flavors available. Some of the top rum-producing countries include Cuba, Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, and Barbados.
