Yo, Ho, Ho
You don’t have to look particularly hard to notice Rum is one of the IT spirits of 2023. It has a captivating history that spans centuries and a rich legacy entwined with seafaring adventures, colonization, and cultural exchanges. So, let’s trace its path from the sugarcane fields of the tropics to the world's favourite cocktail bars in honour of the 5th annual World Rum Day…
The origins of rum can be traced back to the sugarcane plantations of the 17th century Caribbean. As European colonial powers sought to cultivate this cash crop, a byproduct of the sugar-making process known as molasses emerged. Plantation workers discovered by fermenting it they could produce an alcoholic drink called Guarapo. This method evolved into fermenting and distilling molasses resulting in a potent and enjoyable beverage, which was often called “Rumbullion” and later known simply as Rum.
The production and consumption of rum were closely tied to the infamous Triangular Trade. Ships laden with molasses sailed from the Caribbean to New England, where the molasses was distilled into rum. This rum was then traded in Africa for slaves, who were transported to the Caribbean to work on sugar plantations or back to the West Indies to be traded for more molasses, closing the trade triangle. The economic and cultural impact of this trade route made some men very wealthy and cemented rum as an integral trade tool, but it left an indelible mark on its history.
On a lighter note, rum is equally associated with Pirates. In 1655 the British Royal Navy captured Jamaica, leading to them to issue daily rum rations to sailors, believed to boost morale and suppress their discontent. This practice extended to privateers and pirates who frequented the Caribbean, fuelling their rebellious spirit and often leading to raucous adventures on the high seas.
The 18th and 19th centuries witnessed the global expansion of rum production. Countries like Cuba, Puerto Rico, and Jamaica became major players in the rum trade. Each region developed its unique style, from light and dry rums to dark and rich expressions. Rum's popularity soared across the Atlantic, reaching Europe and eventually the United States, where it became a staple spirit.
In the mid-20th century, rum found a new home in the realm of tiki culture. Inspired by Polynesian aesthetics, restaurants and bars created exotic cocktails with rum as the star ingredient. Visionaries like Donn Beach and Trader Vic introduced drinks like the Mai Tai and Zombie, which remain beloved classics to this day.
The past few decades have witnessed a renaissance in rum appreciation, with a focus on quality craftsmanship and unique expressions. Craft distilleries have emerged, producing small-batch rums using traditional methods and experimenting with aging techniques. In fact, our very own Circumstance Distillery has produced the first rum distilled in Bristol since World War II. A liquid which is not only historic but delicious and helps us reconnect with our fine city’s maritime history, bringing us back almost full circle.
Rum cocktails are as diverse and interesting as its history. Whether you drink it neat or prefer a refreshing mojito, rum continues to captivate our senses and transports us to the sun-soaked shores of the Caribbean.
Yo, Ho, Ho and a bottle of rum…
