Panama rum & Spirit Drink
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Abuelo 12y Gran Reserva
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Abuelo 12y Gran Reserva
In stock
Abuelo 12y Gran Reserva is a Panamanian rum built around a clear and confident proposition: Abuelo, 12 years of age, and the Gran Reserva name. Those details give the bottle its identity without needing a long explanation. It is a mature expression within the Abuelo range, with Panama firmly at the centre of its origin story.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of rum we would introduce to someone looking for a bottle with a stated age, a recognised brand name and a straightforward sense of provenance. The appeal lies in that clarity: a 12-year-old rum from Panama, bottled at 40%, presented in a way that feels composed and easy to understand.
Additional information about the brand can be found at https://www.ronabuelo.com/
No separate (…)Abuelo 12y Two Oaks Incl. Box
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Abuelo 12y Two Oaks Incl. Box
In stock
Abuelo 12y Two Oaks is a molasses-based rum from Panama, matured for 12 years and shaped by a clear oak influence. The name already gives a useful clue: this is a rum where wood is part of the identity, not just a background note.
Made through multicolumn distillation and aged in American Oak, it sits at Drankenshop Broekmans among the more mature rums for drinkers who appreciate structure, spice and fruit rather than a heavily sweet style. At 40% alcohol, it presents that aged character in a measured, approachable way.
The emphasis falls on wood, with spice and fruit also clearly present, while sweetness and floral notes remain more restrained. More information about the brand can be found at https://www.ronabuelo.com/
Abuelo 12y Two Oaks (…)Abuelo 7y
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Abuelo 7y
In stock
Abuelo 7y is a Panamanian rum with a clear and straightforward identity: Abuelo as the producer, a 7-year age statement in the name, and a strength of 40% alcohol. It is the kind of bottle that tells you its main story immediately, without needing a long explanation.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, we see Abuelo 7y as a rum for customers who appreciate a recognisable origin and a defined age statement. Panama is part of the character presented on the label, giving this rum a clear place within the wider selection of rums.
Additional information about the brand can be found at https://www.ronabuelo.com/
No specific tasting notes have been provided for Abuelo 7y. The available information identifies it as a Panamanian rum from Abuelo, carrying a 7-year (…)Abuelo Anejo 5y
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Abuelo Anejo 5y
Only 3 left in stock!
Abuelo Anejo 5y is a Panamanian rum from Abuelo, carrying a 5-year age statement. It is a straightforward and clearly presented bottle: Panama as its origin, añejo as its style, and 40% alcohol as its bottling strength.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, we see this as the kind of rum that suits customers looking for a matured Panamanian expression without an overly complicated presentation. The product name does much of the talking: Abuelo, añejo, 5 years.
Additional information about the brand can be found at https://www.ronabuelo.com/
No specific tasting notes were provided for Abuelo Anejo 5y in the supplied information. The confirmed details are that it is a 5-year-old rum from Panama, bottled at 40% alcohol.Abuelo Centuria 30y Incl. Box
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Abuelo Centuria 30y Incl. Box
Only 3 left in stock!
Abuelo Centuria 30y is a Panamanian rum where the age statement immediately shapes the conversation: thirty years of maturation. At Drankenshop Broekmans, we would place a bottle like this among the more considered choices, for customers looking for a rum defined by time and maturity.
Centuria is a name that naturally points towards patience and age. Bottled at 40%, it sits at a classic drinking strength, so the focus is not on sheer alcohol power but on the long development behind the rum.
For anyone exploring Abuelo from Panama in an older expression, this 30-year-old release is direct and clear in its appeal: provenance, age and a sense of quiet refinement without needing unnecessary explanation.
Additional information about the brand can be (…)Abuelo Xv Tawny Port Incl. Box
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Abuelo Xv Tawny Port Incl. Box
In stock
Abuelo XV Tawny Port is a Panamanian rum built around a Port Finish, with the Tawny Port reference giving the bottle its particular identity. At Drankenshop Broekmans, we see this as a rum for customers who are curious about how a specific cask finish can shape the final style of a familiar spirit.
Bottled at 40%, the focus here is not on high strength, but on the character of the finishing choice. The Port Finish is the detail that sets this Abuelo apart and makes it a worthwhile bottle to place alongside other rum styles when exploring the influence of cask selection.
Additional information about the brand can be found at https://www.ronabuelo.com/
No detailed tasting notes are provided for Abuelo XV Tawny Port. The most reliable way to frame (…)Don Jose 1995 17y (The Whisky Agency & The Nectar)
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Don Jose 1995 17y (The Whisky Agency & The Nectar)
Only 3 left in stock!
Don Jose 1995 17y is a molasses-based rum from Panama, distilled in 1995 and bottled in 2012 after 17 years of maturation. Rather than a regular large-batch release, this is a single cask bottling from Whisky Agency & Daily Dram, bottled at cask strength at 52.9%.
That gives the rum a very specific identity. It comes from one Bourbon Barrel and was produced in a traditional column style, with the supplied profile pointing towards a clear presence of wood, spice and fruit, supported by a lighter floral side.
Only 279 bottles were filled, and these are now among the last bottles available. At Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of rum we like to present as a defined snapshot: Panama, vintage 1995, one individual cask, and no adjustment to a standard (…)Kuna Habana Cigar Cask Incl. Box
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Kuna Habana Cigar Cask Incl. Box
Temporarily sold out
Kuna Habana Cigar Cask is a molasses-based rum from Panama, made in a traditional column style. The name gives it a calm, contemplative feel, while the profile itself points towards spice rather than an overly sweet or heavy expression.
American oak adds a gentle woody frame, but it does not take over the rum's personality. At 42% alcohol, it has a little more presence than many lighter-strength rums, while still keeping a clear and approachable structure.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of Panamanian rum we would introduce to someone looking for a spiced-leaning molasses rum with a measured touch of sweetness and wood. More information about the brand can be found at https://www.canaoak.com/
The flavour profile is led by spice, (…)Mezan Panama 2006 (Mezan Vintages)
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Mezan Panama 2006 (Mezan Vintages)
On request only
Mezan Panama 2006 is a molasses-based rum from Panama, distilled in 2006 and released as part of the Mezan Vintages range. The vintage approach gives this bottle a clear point of identity: it is centred on a specific origin and distillation year rather than presented as a broad, anonymous style.
Its multicolumn distillation points to a cleaner, fruit-led expression. Although matured in bourbon cask, the supplied profile does not place wood at the forefront. Instead, the character is shaped mainly by fruit, with lighter accents of spice, sweetness and floral detail.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of rum we would point out to someone interested in Panama through a vintage bottling. At 40% alcohol it stays approachable in strength, while the (…)Mezan Panama 2008 (Mezan Vintages)
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Mezan Panama 2008 (Mezan Vintages)
On request only
Mezan Panama 2008 is a molasses-based rum from Panama, bottled as part of the Mezan Vintages range. The vintage is an important part of its identity: distilled in 2008 and aged for 10 years, it presents a clearly defined snapshot of Panamanian rum maturation.
The bourbon cask influence gives it a gentle wooden frame rather than a heavily oaked profile. Together with multicolumn distillation and a bottling strength of 46%, the emphasis sits mainly on fruit, supported by light spice, soft sweetness and a subtle floral edge.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of rum we see drawing interest from customers who enjoy vintage releases with a clear sense of origin and cask influence. With the last bottles now in stock, Mezan Panama 2008 has the feel of a (…)On Deck Rum 15y
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On Deck Rum 15y
Very last one in stock!
On Deck Rum 15y is a Panamanian rum where the age statement does much of the talking. Fifteen years gives the bottle a clear identity: this is not positioned as a young, everyday rum, but as one where maturation is an important part of its appeal.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, we see bottles like this as a good fit for customers who want a rum with a defined origin and a meaningful age indication, without needing an overly technical presentation. At 40% alcohol, it sits in a classic and familiar drinking strength.
As these are the last bottles, On Deck Rum 15y also carries a certain sense of timing. It is the kind of bottle to consider when you are looking for an aged rum from Panama and want something a little less commonplace in the selection.
No (…)Panama 2001 Ncf (1423 Single Barrel Selection)
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Panama 2001 Ncf (1423 Single Barrel Selection)
Only 2 left in stock!
Panama 2001 Ncf (1423 Single Barrel Selection) is a(n) rum from Panama by the brand 1423 Rum World Class. It is one of the many references you can currently buy online at Drankenshop Broekmans.
IMPORTANT: This rum from 1423 Rum World Class will never return once it is sold out. If you want to be sure that this 1423 Rum World Class will shine in your bar cabinet, don't wait too long to order!
It is a version of 70 cl and has an alcohol content of 55,6%.
Panama 2001 Ncf (1423 Single Barrel Selection) is bottled by 1423 Single Barrel Selection.Panama 2006 (1423 Single Barrel Selection)
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Panama 2006 (1423 Single Barrel Selection)
Only 2 left in stock!
Panama 2006 from 1423 Rum World Class is the kind of rum where the details genuinely matter. Distilled in 2006 and bottled in August 2019, it spent 13 years developing before being released as a molasses-based Panamanian rum distilled on a multicolumn still.
Its appeal lies in the focused nature of the release. This is a single bourbon cask bottling, presented at cask strength, with only 288 bottles produced. Rather than a broad house style, it captures one individual cask at a specific point in its maturation.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, we like bottlings like this because they give rum drinkers something clearly defined to explore. At 57% alcohol it has a firm presence, while the flavour profile points towards a pronounced wood influence supported by gentler (…)Panama 2006 (Berry Bros - Berry's Own Selection)
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Panama 2006 (Berry Bros - Berry's Own Selection)
On request only
Berry Bros Panama 2006 is a molasses-based rum with a very focused identity: one country, one cask and a defined maturation window from 2006 to 2022. Distilled in a traditional column still and matured in a Bourbon Barrel, it presents Panama rum through a precise single-cask lens.
At 55.7% ABV, this is bottled at cask strength, keeping the emphasis close to the cask rather than smoothing it into a broader blend. As part of Berry's own selection, it feels like a chosen snapshot of one particular barrel and its development over time.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, releases like this are valued for the way they let customers explore rum with a clear sense of origin and structure. With only the last bottles remaining, this Panama 2006 has the added appeal of being a (…)Panama 2006 14y (The Nectar - Daily Dram)
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Panama 2006 14y (The Nectar - Daily Dram)
In stock
Panama 2006 14y from Daily Dram is a clearly defined independent rum: distilled in 2006, bottled in November 2020, and matured for 14 years in a bourbon barrel. It is a molasses-based Panamanian rum with a precise identity rather than a broad house-style blend.
Its appeal lies in the way the release captures one individual cask. Bottled by The Nectar under the Daily Dram label, this is a single cask rum at cask strength, with only 272 bottles drawn from the barrel. That makes it a focused snapshot of maturation, especially now that only the last bottles remain.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, bottlings like this are selected for customers who enjoy exploring rum beyond the standard range. The multicolumn distillation gives the spirit a clean foundation, while the (…)Panama 2006 17y (Cadenhead)
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Panama 2006 17y (Cadenhead)
On request only
Panama 2006 17y from Cadenhead's is a molasses-based rum with a clear sense of origin and age. Distilled in 2006 and bottled at 17 years old, it brings mature character without the supplied profile suggesting a heavily wood-driven style.
The Bourbon Barrel maturation gives the rum its ageing framework, yet the main emphasis sits with fruitiness and sweetness. Light floral and spicy touches add detail, while oak influence stays very much in the background according to the flavour profile.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, we would place this with drinkers looking for a Panamanian rum with age, but with a softer fruit-and-sweetness-led personality rather than a strongly woody one. With only the last bottles remaining, it is also a release that is gradually becoming (…)Panama 2006 19y (Cadenhead's Single Cask)
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Panama 2006 19y (Cadenhead's Single Cask)
In stock
Panama 2006 19y from Cadenhead's is a Panamanian molasses rum with a very clearly defined identity. It belongs to the Cadenhead's Single Cask range, so the rum comes from one individual cask rather than from a broader blend, giving a focused view of this particular maturation.
It was distilled in a traditional column style and matured in a Bourbon Barrel. With 19 years of age and a strength of 55%, it has real presence, yet the supplied tasting profile points just as much toward dark fruit, sweetness and a measured spicy edge as it does toward power.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, we see this as a rum to introduce with a little attention: a single cask from Panama, now down to the last bottles, for drinkers who enjoy discovering the personality of one specific (…)Panama 2007 16y Varela (The Nectar - Daily Dram)
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Panama 2007 16y Varela (The Nectar - Daily Dram)
In stock
Panama 2007 16y Varela is a molasses-based rum from Panama, matured for 16 years in a Bourbon Barrel at the Varela distillery. Bottled by The Nectar under the Daily Dram label, it is the kind of rum that fits naturally into the Drankenshop Broekmans selection: clearly defined, limited, and made for drinkers who enjoy a more direct single-cask experience.
Distilled in 2007 using a traditional column style and bottled in 2023 at 60.7%, it shows its strength without trying to hide it. The cask-strength presentation gives the rum a concentrated feel, while the flavour profile points toward wood, spice and fruit, with sweetness playing a supporting role rather than taking over.
Only 237 bottles were drawn from this cask, and the remaining availability is now (…)Panama 2008 Drankenshop Broekmans (1423 Single Barrel Selection)
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Panama 2008 Drankenshop Broekmans (1423 Single Barrel Selection)
In stock
Panama 2008 Drankenshop Broekmans is a molasses-based rum from Panama with a very clearly defined identity. Distilled in 2008 and bottled in April 2021, it comes from a single American oak cask, giving it the feel of a specific cask selection rather than a broad house blend.
For Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of rum that tells its story through origin, vintage and cask. It was multi-column distilled, bottled at 45% and released under the 1423 Rum World Class name, with the focus firmly on that individual cask.
As a single cask release with the last bottles now available, this Panama 2008 has a naturally limited character. It is a rum for someone who enjoys a clearly framed bottling: one country, one distillation year, one American oak cask and one (…)Panama 2010 6y Tcrl Batch 2
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Panama 2010 6y Tcrl Batch 2
On request only
Panama 2010 6y TCRL Batch 2 is a Panamanian rum from Transcontinental Rum Line, presented with a clear focus on origin, vintage and batch identity. The name already gives the essential framework: distilled in 2010, aged for six years and released as Batch 2.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, a rum like this stands out because it is not positioned as a broad, anonymous style. It is a specific release, bottled at 43%, with its own place within the Transcontinental Rum Line range.
With only the last bottles remaining, this Panama 2010 6y has the appeal of a release that is gradually disappearing from the shelf. It is a bottle for drinkers who appreciate rum with a clearly defined origin and batch rather than a purely general category label.
No detailed (…)Panama 20y Rm035 (Rasta Morris)
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Panama 20y Rm035 (Rasta Morris)
Temporarily sold out
Rasta Morris takes us to Panama with this 20-year-old rum from a single cask, RM035. It was bottled at cask strength, 56.2% vol., without chill filtration, without added sugar and in its natural colour. Nothing in the presentation feels dressed up; the focus is on the cask, the age and the rum itself.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, releases like this have a clear place for drinkers who enjoy rum with a more direct and uncompromising voice. The single cask origin, long maturation and limited release all point in the same direction: a Panamanian rum with concentration, individuality and real strength in the glass.
What makes it especially engaging is the tasting impression of a meeting point between English and Spanish rum styles. That gives room for ripe fruit and (…)Plantation Panama 2008 (Planteray Vintage)
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Plantation Panama 2008 (Planteray Vintage)
In stock
Plantation Panama 2008 is a molasses-based rum from Panama, bottled as part of the Planteray Vintage range. Its appeal lies in the vintage approach: distilled in 2008, aged for 13 years and bottled at 45.7%, it has a more defined presence than a straightforward everyday rum.
Traditional column distillation gives the rum its foundation, while the Cognac finish adds an extra layer to the maturation story. The character indicated here leans towards fruit and spice, with wood playing a supporting role rather than dominating the glass.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, we see this as a bottle for drinkers who enjoy rum with a clear origin, vintage and ageing identity. With only the last bottles remaining, it is also a release that is gradually disappearing from the (…)Planteray Paraguay 2014 Tasttoe & Massen Incl. Box
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Planteray Paraguay 2014 Tasttoe & Massen Incl. Box
In stock
Planteray Paraguay 2014 Tasttoe & Massen stands out because it is so clearly defined: a named origin, a 2014 distillation year and a single cask release. Rather than presenting a broad house style, this bottle focuses on one particular selection.
That single cask element is important. It means the rum comes from one individual cask, giving the release a narrower and more specific identity under the Tasttoe & Massen name. The 45.5% strength also gives it a more serious presence than a standard lower-strength bottling.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, releases like this are valued for the way they let rum drinkers explore Planteray from a more focused angle. With the last bottles now indicated, it is a limited bottling that is gradually becoming harder to (…)Zafra 21y Master Reserve Incl. Box
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Zafra 21y Master Reserve Incl. Box
Last one in stock!
Zafra 21y Master Reserve is a Panamanian molasses rum with a 21-year age statement. Its character is closely tied to long maturation and bourbon barrel ageing, giving the rum a mature profile where wood influence and spice play an important role.
Rather than presenting itself as a heavily sweet style, this Zafra leans toward a more composed expression. The flavour profile points clearly to wood and spice, with lighter touches of fruit, flowers and sweetness sitting in support. That makes it a rum with a measured, grown-up feel, while still staying connected to its molasses base.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, we see this as an interesting bottle for customers looking for an aged rum from Panama with a clear cask-driven identity. Traditional column distillation and (…)
Frequently asked questions
Answers to most frequently asked questions about rum
What is rum?
Rum is a liquor made from sugar cane. It can be made via molasses (the syrupy by-product of sugar production) or via fresh sugarcane juice. After fermentation and distillation, you have the base, which is then often aged in wooden barrels. As simple as it sounds, the result is versatile: from light and fresh to deep and complex.
Europe has imposed rules and distinguishes between "rum" and "spirit drink". A drink can only be called rum if it:
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is made from sugar cane products
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is fermented and distilled
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has a maximum alcohol content of 96% at distillation
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contains at least 37.5% alcohol at bottling
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contains no flavourings or large quantities of sugar
If producers do use extra flavourings, lots of sugar or other additives, it legally becomes "spirit drink" or "spirituose" instead of rum.
What is the difference between rum and spirit drink?
In Europe, this difference has come about mainly because of stricter and clearer rules around protected drink categories. "Rum" is not a non-committal marketing term in the EU, but a legally defined category. If a product does not exactly meet that definition, it can no longer officially be called rum and must be sold as a "spirit drink", for example.
The main rules are in the European geographical indications and spirit legislation, now under Regulation (EU) 2019/787.
The heart of the problem usually lies in one of these points:
- Added flavourings
Real rum may not simply be flavoured with, say, vanilla, chocolate or other distinct flavourings if it is still to be called "rum". Once the additives fall outside the permissible limits, it legally becomes a "spirit drink". - Added sugar or sweeteners
There are limits on how much sugar or sweetening can be added without losing the "rum" category. Some producers used to add relatively large amounts of sugar to make the drink softer or fuller. Stricter controls required those products to be relabelled. - Alcohol from other raw materials
Rum must come from sugar cane products such as molasses or sugar cane juice. If neutral alcohol of other origin is added (e.g. grain alcohol), the product falls outside the definition. - Production method or strength
Minimum alcohol percentages and production methods are also set by law.
Especially in recent years, enforcement has become stricter. As a result, you see that some brands that were sold as rum for years suddenly got "spirit drink", "spiced spirit drink" or "rum-based spirit drink" on the label.
A well-known example are certain "spiced rums". Many consumers still call them rum, but legally some of them cannot be called rum in Europe because they are too strongly flavoured or sweetened.
That does not necessarily mean the quality is worse - just that the product no longer fits within the strict EU definition of rum. Some enthusiasts actually find these stricter rules positive, as it makes it clearer what is pure rum and what is a flavoured variety.
Which rum is tasty?
The question "which rum is good?" seems simple, but the answer depends entirely on personal taste. Instead of immediately reaching for specific bottles, it makes more sense to first consider what you would like to drink. Do you like soft, sweet flavours like vanilla, caramel and honey, or do you rather prefer fresh and light notes like citrus and coconut? Maybe you just go for something more powerful with wood, spices and cocoa, or even a more pronounced, funky style with ripe fruit and an almost wild intensity. After all, rum is one of the most diverse spirits, and "tasty" means something different to everyone.
In addition, the moment also plays a role. A light, fresh rum comes into its own in cocktails and on hot days, while a richer, fuller rum is better suited to drinking on its own or as a digestif. There are also styles that sit somewhere in between: accessible enough for mixed drinks, but with enough character to appreciate solo as well.
By approaching the question in this way, you will not only discover what you yourself find a tasty rum, but you will also eventually begin to better understand why that rum suits you.
What types of rum are there?
The best-known subdivisions are white, gold and dark. White rum is bright, fresh and perfect for cocktails like mojito or daiquiri. Golden rum has a bit more body thanks to a short maturation. Dark rum matures longer and develops rich, spicy notes that you can safely drink pure. And then there is spiced rum, where spices like vanilla or cinnamon give it an extra sweet twist.
Broadly speaking, you can distinguish the following styles:
- White rum: clear and light in flavour
- Gold rum: golden, richer flavour than white rum with notes of caramel and vanilla
- Dark rum: dark, deep in colour, with rich and complex flavours such as molasses, chocolate and spices
- Spiced rum: flavoured with spices such as cinnamon, cloves and vanilla
- Overproof rum: high alcohol content, often above 50%
- Flavored rum: Added flavours such as coconut, pineapple or mango
What is English-style rum?
This rum is known for its full, rich and complex flavours. The English-style rum often has notes of molasses, caramel, fruit and spices.
This style rum is made from molasses and is often distilled in pot stills, resulting in a robust flavour profile. According to American Chemical Society, rums from pot stills contain more esters and higher alcohols, which contribute to the complex flavour.
Countries where the specific style of rum is traditionally produced include Jamaica, Barbados, Guyana and Trinidad. Well-known brands of English-style rums include Appleton Estate, Mount Gay and El Dorado.
What is Spanish-style rum?
Spanish-style rum ("Ron") is lighter and sweeter, with a smooth and refined taste. These rums often have notes of vanilla, caramel and tropical fruit.
It is made from molasses and often distilled in column stills, resulting in a lighter, purer rum. Column stills allow for more efficient distillation, giving the rum a more consistent character. Furthermore, these rums are often aged in a so-called Solera system.
Countries where the specific style of rum is traditionally produced: Cuba, Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic and Venezuela, brands like Bacardi, Ron Zacapa and Havana Club probably sound familiar.
What is Rhum Agricole (French style)?
French-style rum has an earthy, grassy and sometimes floral flavour. It is often complex and can range from light and fresh to rich and spicy. It is a real "love it or hate it" type of rum: some swear by it and others revile it.
This rum is made from freshly squeezed sugarcane juice and usually distilled in pot stills. Production often follows strict standards, such as the AOC (Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée) in Martinique, ensuring consistent and high-quality production.
Countries where this particular style of rum is traditionally produced: Martinique, Guadeloupe and Haiti. Well-known brands include Rhum Clément, Rhum JM and Barbancourt.
What do VS, VSOP and XO mean?
Unlike with cognac, these designations are not regulated within rum. These designations in rums therefore often say more about quality or style, but do not necessarily refer to an explicit (minimum) age of the spirit in the bottle.
How strong is rum?
Most rums are around 37.5% to 40% alcohol. But beware: there are also so-called overproof rums that easily exceed 60%. These will immediately spice up your cocktail - or provide a solid punch when drunk straight.
What is the difference between rum, cachaça and rhum agricole?
It's all in the base. Rum is usually made from molasses, while cachaça (from Brazil) and rhum agricole (from the French Caribbean) always come from fresh sugarcane juice. The result? Agricole and cachaça often have a somewhat grassy, spicy touch, while rum tends to be rounder and softer.
What rum do you use for cocktails?
For fresh mixed drinks such as a mojito or daiquiri, it is best to choose a light white rum. Tiki cocktails or a Dark 'n Stormy, on the other hand, get more depth from a dark or spicy rum. In short: your choice of rum makes all the difference in your glass.
Which rums can you drink pure?
Aged rums from Barbados, Jamaica or the Dominican Republic, for example, are often smooth, complex and ideal to enjoy pure. They can easily compete with a good whisky or cognac in terms of depth.
How does rum taste compared to whisky or brandy?
Rum tends to be sweeter and rounder thanks to the sugar cane. Whisky can be malty, spicy or smoky, while brandy is more likely to have fruity, wine-like notes. A matter of taste, but rum often has a more tropical character.
What is the maturation process for rum?
Rum usually matures in ex-bourbon barrels. Due to the warm climate in the Caribbean, this is faster than for whisky in Scotland. As a result, an 8-year-old rum can already taste surprisingly intense.
What is the difference between pot still rum and column still rum?
- Pot still-rum is rich, powerful and complex because it is distilled in smaller batches.
- Column still-rum is lighter and cleaner, ideal for blending.
Many brands combine both styles to get a balanced profile.
What does "solera" or "solera system rum" mean on a rum bottle?
Solera System rum refers to a maturation method where young and old rums flow together. In a Solera System, barrels of different ages are stacked on top of each other, with the oldest rum sitting at the bottom. Bottles are filled from these lower barrels, and then the barrel is replenished with rum from the row above, and so on. The result is a blend of quite a few different ages that results in a flavourful, complex final product that is still consistent in quality, style and recognisability. Because the oldest barrels at the bottom are always diluted with younger rums, the final product in a properly functioning Solera system, after decades of production, basically still contains traces of the very first, oldest rum the process ever started with.
The year number on the bottle then often refers to the oldest rum in the blend, not the average age.
Is rum always made from sugar cane?
Yes, that is a must. Whether it is molasses or sugarcane juice, rum must always come from sugarcane. Other sugars (beet, palm, etc.) are officially outside the definition.
The base for a rum can usually be reduced to one of the following groups:
- Molasses (molasses, syrup): Molasses is fermented and distilled, after which the rum can be aged in barrels. Molasses is a by-product of sugar production and contains many sugars that are converted into alcohol and complex flavourings during fermentation.
- Suger Cane Juice : This rum is known for its natural, unadulterated taste of sugar cane. In this rum, the juice is directly fermented and then distilled.
- Spiced rum: Base rum to which spices and sometimes additional flavours are added during or after the distillation process.
- Sugar Cane Syrup: Sugar cane syrup is fermented and distilled. The use of sugar cane syrup gives the rum a more concentrated and pure sugar cane flavour.
- Sugar Cane Honey: This substance, also known as "miel de caña" in Spanish, is a thick, syrupy liquid obtained by boiling the juice of sugar cane until it thickens, but before it crystallises into sugar. This method is less common and results in a rum with a unique, rich flavour.
- Arranged rum: Base rum is mixed with various flavourings and left to macerate for some time. This gives the rum a distinct and often sweet profile.
What is molasses?
Molasses is a syrupy by-product of sugar refining. It is created when sugar cane or sugar beet is processed to produce sugar.
What is the difference between white and dark rum?
The difference between white and dark rums is mainly in the production methods and ageing times, resulting in different flavours, colours and uses. White rum is clear and translucent, has a mild and light flavour with subtle notes, and is often aged for a shorter time than dark rum, usually in stainless steel tanks or neutral barrels to preserve its colour. This rum type is popular in cocktails such as mojitos and daiquiris, where a subtle rum flavour is desired without affecting the colour of the drink.
Dark rum, on the other hand, is dark brown to almost black in colour, with a rich and full-bodied flavour that contains complex notes of caramel, vanilla and sometimes spices. This rum is aged longer in oak barrels, which contributes to its dark colour and rich flavour. Sometimes caramel is also added for extra colour and flavour. Dark rum is often used in cocktails where a stronger rum flavour is desired, such as in a rum old fashioned, or drunk pure as a sipping rum.
What is the history of rum?
Rum was first produced in the Caribbean in the 17th century, with the first documented production in Barbados around 1650. Production quickly spread to North America, especially to the colonies in New England, where rum became an important trade product.
Rum played a crucial role in the transatlantic slave trade, also known as the Triangular Trade. Slaves from Africa were brought to the Caribbean to work on sugar cane plantations, while sugar and rum were shipped to Europe and North America. Locals and workers often had access to the rum produced locally, making it a popular drink among the lower social classes. This gave rum a negative connotation and it was seen as the drink for the poor. Today, this image has completely changed is rum is a versatile and popular drink.
Why is rum so strongly associated with pirates?
In the 17th and 18th centuries, rum was the means of payment and exchange in the Caribbean. Sailors often received a ration of rum as part of their wages. No wonder pirates and rum have been inextricably linked ever since.
Where can I buy rum?
Basic rums like a brown Havana Club can be found in any shop or supermarket these days, but there is so much more! With over 1,000 rums in our range, Drankenshop Broekmans is the right place for all your rum needs, no matter what colour, flavour, profile, brand, country or price range you are looking for.
