Ron, Rum, Rhum: Three times the same and yet completely different

Discover the Three Main Styles of Rum: Spanish, English, and French

Rum has a rich history closely tied to colonial trade routes and the sugarcane plantations of the tropics. The influences of various colonial powers have left their mark on rum production methods and flavor profiles, leading to three main categories that remain dominant today: Spanish style, English style, and French style. Each of these styles reflects the unique culture, production methods, and flavors of the regions in which they originated.

What is Spanish Style Rum?

• Origins: Spanish-style rum has its roots in former Spanish colonies such as Cuba, Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, and Venezuela. These regions have a long history of sugar production, which has led to a preference for rum made from molasses, a byproduct of sugarcane.

• Production Method: Spanish-style rum is typically distilled using column stills. This type of distillation results in a smoother and lighter rum, with less intense flavors compared to rum produced with a traditional pot still.

• Flavor Profile: Due to the use of molasses and column distillation, Spanish-style rum is often lighter and more subtle in taste. Common flavor notes include vanilla, caramel, and a mild sweetness. As a result, this style of rum is often more approachable for beginners, whether enjoyed neat or in cocktails.

• Aging: Spanish-style rum is often aged in oak barrels, with some producers using the solera system, a method originally from sherry production. This system blends younger and older rums to create a more complex and consistent final product. Due to the tropical temperatures in Latin America, rum ages faster, contributing to a rich flavor.

• Example Brands: Ron Carupano, Contrabando, Gold of Mauritius, Ron Alegre, Millonario, Abuelo, Rum Nation ( Guatemala, Panama)

English Style Rum: Rich and Robust

• Origins: The English style originated in former British colonies such as Jamaica, Barbados, Trinidad, and Guyana. The English developed a preference for strong, rich, and aromatic rums, often produced from longer-fermented molasses.

• Production Method: Traditionally, English-style rum is made using pot still distillation. Unlike column distillation, a pot still produces a rum with a higher concentration of flavors and aromas. This process gives English-style rum its signature full-bodied and robust character. Nowadays, column stills are also increasingly used, and a combination of both methods is often seen.

• Flavor Profile: English-style rum is often rich, complex, and intense. Common flavors include dried fruit, spices, toffee, and caramel. This style of rum is ideal for seasoned rum enthusiasts who enjoy a powerful, aromatic drink with depth.

• Aging: These rums are typically aged in oak barrels, where the heat and humidity of the Caribbean accelerate the aging process. This enhances the rum’s robust character and deep flavor.

  Example Brands: Rum Nation (Jamaica, Barbados, Caroni), Barrum

French Style Rum: Rhum Agricole and Authentic Earthy Flavors

• Origins: The French style of rum, known as rhum agricole, originates from former French colonies such as Martinique, Guadeloupe, and Réunion. This style differs significantly from Spanish and English rums as it is made directly from fresh sugarcane juice instead of molasses.

• Production Method: Rhum agricole is often distilled using column stills, but at a lower alcohol concentration to preserve the flavors and aromas of the sugarcane. In many regions, the production of rhum agricole is subject to strict regulations, such as the AOC (Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée) in Martinique, which guarantees quality.

• Flavor Profile: Rhum agricole has a distinct, earthy, and sometimes grassy flavor with fruity and slightly acidic notes. Due to the use of fresh sugarcane juice instead of molasses, this rum has an authentic, plant-based taste, making it popular among those who appreciate bold and complex flavors.

• Aging: Like other rum styles, rhum agricole is often aged in oak barrels, but some variants are bottled immediately after distillation as blanc or white rum, commonly used in cocktails. The aged versions gain extra depth from the influence of French oak barrels, sometimes adding subtle wine-like notes.

• Example Brands: Barbancourt, Père Labat, Rum Nation (Guadeloupe)

Which Rum Suits You?

The different styles of rum offer a wide range of flavors, from light and subtle to complex and powerful. Here’s a quick summary of the three styles:

• Spanish Style: Light, smooth, and approachable rum with sweet notes. Ideal for those new to the world of rum who prefer something softer and more delicate.

• English Style: Rich, full-bodied, and complex rum, perfect for those who enjoy bold and intense flavors.

• French Style (Rhum Agricole): Earthy, fruity, and grassy with a unique plant-based taste. Suitable for adventurous drinkers who appreciate distinct, natural flavors.

Whether you are a seasoned rum enthusiast or new to the world of this tropical spirit, the versatility of rum ensures that there is always a style that suits your taste. Try different styles and discover your favorite within this diverse category of spirits!

By understanding these differences, you can make a more informed choice and find a rum that matches your preferences. Embark on a journey of discovery in the world of rum, and who knows—you may uncover flavors you’ve never experienced before!