Rum is enigmatic. Enjoyable in so many forms, it is difficult to describe and often even to define. Its origins, production methods, flavor profiles, and styles are decentralized. Therefore, understanding rum is knowing history, geography, science, tradition, politics, socioeconomics, trends, barrel markets, and filtration methods—and that still only scratches the surface.
Rum is a window into understanding more about the world at large. As a New Yorker, I’m constantly surrounded by seas of people in a bustling metropolis, yet meaningful connections are elusive. While technology continues to evolve and connect the world digitally, as a cocktail professional I find rum more than any other spirits category connects us viscerally. Open a bottle and a single sip can be transporting and the source of so much wonder.
