Lets Raise a Glass to Celebrate World Rum Day on July 13th!

“Why is the rum gone?” is the famous line from Jack Sparrow, the troublesome but lovable pirate starring in the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise. But the truth is, in our world, it hasn't gone anywhere, as Rum has been around since the 17th century, and shows no signs of going anywhere.

But if you, like Jack Sparrow, are wondering where the Rum has gone from your liquor cabinet, then we'd encourage you to re stock and treat yourself to a tipple on July 13th to celebrate World Rum Day.

Started by writer and editor of the World Rum Guide, Paul Jackson in 2019, it has progressed to be a staple food and drink themed celebration across the world. With a fascinating history, it's no wonder Jackson wanted this sweet, distilled alcoholic drink to have a day all to itself.

But if your curiosity about rum runs further than simply enjoying it as a tipple or in a cocktail, you're in the right place. To celebrate World Rum Day, we're going to tell you a little about this drink's history.

Everything you didn't know about Rum

You've probably never given much thought to how the alcohol in your rum and coke got there in the first place. But like a lot of food and drink we take for granted, Rum has a long history which is worth reflecting on.

Rum as we know it today began in the Caribbean and the West Indies as it is distilled using sugar cane, which gives it its sweet flavour that works so well with cocktails.

From there, it started to become popular in the 17th century and was considered such a staple that some people even used it as a form of currency. Britain started getting involved with Rum in the 18th century when they introduced the Molasses Act of 1733 - restricting the colonies from trading with the French West Indies for molasses used to make the drink. This aimed to force them to buy their molasses from Great Britain instead. 

Britain went further in 1764, with the Sugar Act which cut the duty on foreign molasses from 6 to 3 pence per gallon, which meant a high duty was maintained on foreign refined sugar, which prohibited the import of foreign rum. This aimed to control Britain's hold over sugar and molasses and to end the smuggling of rum to enlarge their responsibility. It was tricky to enforce, and so rum smuggling remained rife across the world.

This was received very negatively in America, where there were a significant number of rum distilleries around New England who now had to pay extra costs for ingredients. This dissatisfaction would continue on and contribute towards the American Revolution starting in 1765.

Today, rum is still popular and has been growing in recent years. According to the Wine and Spirit Trade Association, UK sales of spiced and flavoured rum have grown by 80% over the last 5 years.

How to drink Rum (a short guide)

Now you know the history of the drink, you should feel inspired to try some rum. Firstly, you'll want to choose between the two types.

1. White Rum - the most commonly drunk, which is typically aged for 1–2 years in an oak barrel. Tastes like: coconut, tropical fruits, banana or clove.
2. Dark Rum - is aged for up to 12 years and usually has a deeper flavour. Tastes like: vanilla, caramel, orange, coffee or chocolate.

Rum is one of the few spirits that is perfect on its own, over some ice, or if you're feeling adventurous, as part of a mojito, piña colada or classic malibu and coke mix!

If you're not sure what rum you think you'd like, why not book yourself in for a Rum and Mixer Tasting session? Here, you'll be given a tasting masterclass and learn more about the history of this fascinating liquor. You can even sign up for a Rum Subscription that delivers a different rum to your doorstep once a month!

However you enjoy your rum, make sure to drink it responsibly and celebrate its long history.

Fancy yourself as a bit of a foodie who loves a tipple too? Why not explore our range of Food and Drink Experiences across the UK? From Champagne afternoon teas, to classic wine tasting and more, our bespoke packages cater for every occasion.