What is rum actually?

Rum is one of the oldest and most diverse spirits in the world—and also one of the most exciting. It is made from sugar cane , either from molasses (a byproduct of sugar production) or directly from sugar cane juice. Depending on the country of origin, style, storage, and production process, very different flavor profiles emerge—from light and fruity to heavy, spicy, and woody.

The raw materials: molasses vs. sugar cane juice

Most rums are distilled from molasses . This dark, syrupy residue still contains plenty of sugar and flavors. Molasses rum is particularly popular in the Caribbean (e.g., Jamaica, Barbados).

Some countries, such as Martinique, Haiti, and Réunion, however, use fresh sugarcane juice – this produces what is known as Rhum Agricole . This is often grassier, fresher, and more intense in flavor and is considered particularly high-quality.

Distillation & Maturation: The style makes the difference

Rum can be distilled in both pot stills (copper stills) and column stills (continuous column stills). The former produce strong, aromatic rums (e.g., Jamaica), while the latter produce lighter, clearer rums (e.g., Cuba, Puerto Rico).

Maturation often takes place in ex-bourbon casks , but also in sherry, wine, or even cognac casks. Tropical climates accelerate maturation—an 8-year-old rum from the Caribbean can be more intense than a 20-year-old whisky from Scotland.

Rum styles at a glance

• Spanish style (e.g. Cuba, Dominican Republic): Light, elegant, mild – usually from a column still, ideal for cocktails
• British style (e.g. Jamaica, Barbados): Strong, fruity, full-bodied – often with a pot still component
• French style (e.g. Martinique, Guadeloupe): Rhum Agricole, complex, grassy, often with AOC regulation
• Modern Craft Rum : Small distilleries worldwide experiment with organic sugar cane, wild yeasts and special barrel maturations

Flavor explosion: flavors in rum

Rum can represent an incredible range of flavors:

• Fruity : Banana, pineapple, raisin, dried mango
• Spicy : cinnamon, clove, pepper, nutmeg
• Sweet : Vanilla, toffee, honey, brown sugar
• Woody : oak, leather, smoke, tobacco
• Grassy & floral : especially in Agricole rums

This variety makes rum an experience both neat and in cocktails.

Rum & Pairing: How to enjoy it

Rum pairs perfectly with dark chocolate, dried fruit, aged cheese, or even cigars. Those who prefer a classic approach can enjoy it neat in a nosing glass at room temperature. Long drinks like the Rum Tonic or the Rum Old Fashioned create entirely new flavors.

Conclusion: Rum is culture

Rum tells stories – of pirates and plantations, of craftsmanship and origins. Those who delve into the world of rum discover a spirit with character, depth, and infinite variety. Whether in the Caribbean, South America, or Europe: rum is more than a trend – rum is culture in a glass.