An authentic taste of the Caribbean

One of the world’s most versatile drinks, rum is also intrinsically linked with the history and culture of its origins in the Caribbean.

The earliest references to sugarcane spirit production in the region date back to 1647, and through innovative techniques like oak barrel ageing, rum quickly gained a foothold in global markets and earned its place as a highly sought-after commodity during the golden age of piracy in the years 1690-1720.

Throughout the islands of the region – from Belize right across the Caribbean Sea to Barbados - there is a grand tradition of rum production, with traditional family-owned brands practising a variety of methods of fermentation, distillation, casking and blending just as intricate and distinct as the Scotch whiskey industry.

In recognition of this, a new Authentic Caribbean Rum marque has been established as an assured sign of quality and provenance and as a proud symbol of a heritage stretching back four centuries. A new website, truerum.com also hosts a range of information the history and production of rum as well as a bevy of serving suggestions and cocktail recipes.

Varieties such as St Lucia’s Chairman’s Reserve, with its rich array of aromas including chocolate, raisin, spice and a hint of vanilla are ideal for mixing in cocktails or with your favourite mixer. Others, like El Dorado 15 Year Old, is made in Guyana using a unique wooden Coffey still is best enjoyed on its own or over ice.

Helping us to explore the world of authentic Caribbean rum is Ian Burrell, host of our WebTV show but mostly known as ‘Mr Rum’. A well-known London mixologist and organiser of the 2007 UK Rum Festival, there is no-one better equipped this side of the Atlantic to give us an inside track on producing, appreciating and mostly importantly drinking a drop of the good stuff.

Ian Burrell will be live online at
webchats.tv/chat/an_authentic_taste_of_the_caribbean on Wednesday 15th July from 3.00pm to discuss Rums of the Caribbean

To submit questions before the chat visit webchats.tv.

For more information visit Truerum.com.